Anthony Richardson praises Florida's run game vs USF

Florida is one of the few college football teams left that have yet to throw a passing touchdown. That’s not necessarily a knock on the play of Gator QB Anthony Richardson. However, since they’re 2-1 without a receiving score yet, it’s a credit to the Gator’s rushing attack.

Richardson spoke about the play Florida has had in the run game during media after their 31-28 win over USF. He says the run game has been their life preserver on offense and that he’s appreciative that the offense can lean on them.

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“I feel like it definitely saved us,” said Richardson. “(We) couldn’t really do much in the air. That falls back on me and me not giving my guys a chance to get the ball. But the O-line and the running backs are saving us. I’m glad we can count on them when the time comes.”

Richardson is a key part of that rushing attack from the QB spot. His legs have produced 134 yards and a trio of scores through three games. Still, three Gator running backs have each put up great numbers to start the season.

Montrell Johnson Jr., Trevor Etienne, and Nay’Quan Wright have each rushed over 22 times for over 100 yards each and at least one score apiece. In the win over the Bulls, those three backs combined for 196 yards and a score apiece. The Florida rushing attack’s average of 212 yards per game is worth over 60% of the team’s offense thus far. While the passing game isn’t as prolific as some hoped yet, their running backs have been workhorses over their first three games.

The pass game will have to get going for Florida to succeed and that is the responsibility of Anthony Richardson. His inefficient arm may be at the root of what has led Billy Napier to lean on the run so heavily to this point. Still, it’s a reliable option they know they can go to and will plan on relying upon as the season moves forward.