Florida football: Kingsley Eguakun’s return is a major boost for Gators

Florida football is getting a major boost to their offensive line ahead of their big showdown on Saturday night against the Tennessee Volunteers.

After suffering an ankle injury that has kept him out of the Gators’ first two games, Kingsley Eguakun is set to make his return this week in practice.

Jake Slaughter has done a great job filling in in Kingsley’s absence and has received high praise from both Eguakun and Billy Napier.

But make no mistake, getting Eguakun back will make this Gators’ offensive line much better.

Florida football: Experience is valuable

Kingsley has more collegiate experience than any other member of Florida’s offensive line. Having that experience and leadership at the center position is vital to the success of any offensive line.

The 6’3”-300 pound redshirt junior has been on the line for Florida for years, starting in all 13 games for the Gators in each of the past two years.

He was the leader of the Gators’ OL that was so dominant last year thanks to guys like O’Cyrus Torrence, so he knows what elite OL play looks like, and what it takes to get there.

The timing of his return couldn’t be much better either. This matchup with the Vols is the biggest game of Napier’s career at Florida and could have a major impact on the rest of the Gators’ season depending on which way it goes.

With Eguakun back at center, the Gators’ run game should be very effective, allowing them to control the clock and keep Joe Milton III off the field.

And if the Vols get out to a hot start and an early lead, his veteran presence can help keep the offense calm and prevent silly mistakes like they made up in Salt Lake City.

The Gators are going to need all hands on deck this Saturday, and Kingsley being back is a major boost.