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Florida Football: What to expect this upcoming season

By Devin Long

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 16: Anthony Richardson #15 of the Florida Gators runs with the ball during the second half against the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium on October 16, 2021 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 16: Anthony Richardson #15 of the Florida Gators runs with the ball during the second half against the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium on October 16, 2021 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /
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Although last year wasn’t the season Florida football fans wanted to have, there are a lot of positives to look forward to this upcoming season. With the departure of Coach Dan Mullen, Emory Jones transferring, and a new coaching staff, there seems to be a new era for Florida Gators football.

It seems not too long ago, we were watching Kyle Trask unload passes to Kyle Pitts, throw screens to Kadarius Toney, and handing the ball off to a vicious runner in Dameon Pierce, or Malik Davis. With all of those players gone and pursuing their careers in the NFL, a new star is in charge of the offense now: Anthony Richardson.

Last year, Gator fans were able to see Richardson play for the first time in the season-opening win vs FAU. While he may not have impressed with his arm that game, fans definitely saw what he could do on the ground. In his 7 rush attempts, he had 160 yards, including one touchdown. Many may remember his hurdle that sent the fan base into a frenzy.

While Richardson looked like the quarterback of the future, there were also some plays that made you think otherwise. In his last 3 starts last year(LSU, Georgia, and Florida State), he was a combined 27-46, with 4 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. Although these seemed like Richardson’s worst games, ultimately it was his passing heroics late that helped the Gators stay close with LSU in their 49-42 loss.

Gator Nation should have full faith in Richardson this upcoming season. Just like any other first-year quarterback, some have their struggles, but bounce back the next year. With Nay’quan Wright returning, along with veteran WRs Justin Shorter and Trent Whittemore, this Gators offense should be extremely fun to watch.

As for the defensive concerns, having Senior leaders Ventrell Miller and Brenton Cox Jr. back should help boost the Gators defense as well. Losing DB Kaiir Elam to the NFL means that veteran player Trey Dean must step up for the Gators and give the secondary a boost.

Interesting, but exciting times await as the Gators prepare to face Utah in the swamp, on September 3rd.

Keep up with Florida football here.

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