CNN/SI - 1999 College Football Conference Previews - - Wednesday August 11, 1999 05:15 PM

Reloaded Weapon

Florida (’98: 10-2, 7-1 SEC)

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Posted: Wednesday August 11, 1999 05:15 PM

The Plot

For the first time in the '90s, Florida has gone back-to-back seasons without a Southeastern Conference championship. That doesn't sit well with the head ball coach, Steve Spurrier. In 1999, the offense should be up to Spurrier's standards. However, the Gators will have to win a conference title with a largely made-over defense. Nine starters, as well as defensive coordinator Bob Stoops, are gone from last year's unit. The young defense will have to grow up quickly -- by Sept. 18, to be exact -- if Florida is going to make it back to the SEC title game for the sixth time this decade.

The Director

Steve Spurrier -- 10th season, 93-18-1; 113-31-2 overall

Starring

WR Travis Taylor -- More-than-capable successor to the Gators' big-play receiver throne. Had coming-out party in Orange Bowl.
QB Doug Johnson -- Last chance for Johnson. Senior signal-caller doesn't want to leave the legacy as first Spurrier starting QB at Florida not to win SEC title.

Co-Starring

CB Bennie Alexander -- Speedy cornerback is one of defense's elder statesmen, in terms of playing time, as a sophomore.
C Zac Zedalis -- Anchors an offensive line that returns all five starters from last season.
DT Gerard Warren -- With Reggie McGrew and Ed Chester now departed, it's Warren's chance to shine.
LB Keith Kelsey -- Overlooked with the overflowing talent at linebacker last season (Mike Peterson, Johnny Rutledge and Jevon Kearse).

And introducing

RB Earnest Graham -- There's little doubt the redshirt freshman will be aware of this stat -- Under Spurrier, Florida is 82-4 when rushing for more than 100 yards in a game.
DE Alex Brown -- Or maybe Jevon Kearse Jr. is more apropos.

Why it will work

The schedule favors the Gators: Tennessee, Alabama and Florida State all come to The Swamp. The offense returns eight starters, including the entire offensive line.

Why it won't

The mystique is vanishing -- Tennessee knows it can beat the Gators. Can Florida's youth top the Volunteers' experience?

Our critics' review

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