The Florida Gators offensive line took several steps back in last week's 45-17 loss to Missouri, but there's no time for the unit to feel sorry for itself because another test is around the corner, and South Carolina might have some reinforcements.
Dylan Stewart, arguably the top defender for the Gamecocks and one of the best edge rushers in college football, is back on the practice field, and Shane Beamer isn't ruling out a Week 6 return in Gainesville.
Dylan Stewart has returned to practice for South Carolina. No clarity yet if he’ll play at Florida on Saturday. https://t.co/1bwwViNXEd
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) October 6, 2026
Beamer expanded on this decision with his comments and, while he wouldn't commit to Stewart playing in Week 6, it appears very likely:
"Dylan, he and I have had some really open and honest and tough conversations in my office over the last week, and felt like he had earned the right to at least reappear and be a part of the team this week. What that means as we go forward, I think it's really truly day to day," Beamer said.
Florida's offensive line could get a tough, but necessary, test against Dylan Stewart
Stewart's return would clearly boost South Carolina's defense. When the All-SEC defender is on his game, he's going to make an impact. That being said, the Gators' offensive line needs to show that it can bounce back from a disappointing performance, and Stewart provides a great opportunity for that group to test its mettle because things are only going to get tougher.
In Week 7, Florida will have to travel to Texas, and that's where Colin Simmons plays. If some of you thought Simmons played for Tennessee, it makes sense because he was basically in their huddle on every play. The guy had FIVE sacks against the Volunteers. So if Stewart is the All-American level of difficulty, Simmons is Heisman-level hard.
And then, after a much-needed bye week, Florida will head to Atlanta to take on Georgia in Week 9, and the Bulldogs just have monsters all over the field on defense. So, yes, Beamer, please put Stewart on the field because this Gators offensive front needs to take down a top defender to gain the confidence needed to take on even more difficult challenges.
The sense of urgency around Florida is a real thing
It's hard to think that one loss has many fans questioning everything about the Gators, but you can't blame them because this is the pivotal point of the season.
Even before the Missouri loss, Florida fans were eyeing the games against Texas and Georgia. There were some, like me, who thought the October 17th date against the Longhorns would be a matchup of top-five teams. But the Tigers exposed so much in 60 minutes that it's safe to wonder if Florida will be ranked by the end of the month.
That's why Week 6 against South Carolina is so important to right the ship and see how these Gators respond to adversity. In the SEC, everyone gets knocked team, but the teams with championship aspirations get up quickly.
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