Dan Mullen offers disgruntled Florida fans, recruits encouragement

The Florida Gators season appears to be heading the wrong direction, at least compared to preseason expectations. Now they head into the bye week. Following disappointing losses against Kentucky and LSU, the Gators now prepare to face Georgia.

The loss of two commitments, and rumors swirling about other recruits, has set off the fanbase even further. Facing criticism from every angle, Florida coach Dan Mullen addressed the current situation, offering words of encouragement for everyone.

“I think we’re headed in a good way with the attitude of the program,” said Mullen. “Our kids here on the team have a great attitude, great focus. The energy we’ve had at practice has been really good. I’m pretty pleased with the mindset of the guys on the team are right now.”

After starting the season 2-0, Florida suffered a close loss against Alabama. They failed to convert a late two-point conversion, falling 31-29 at the end. After an encouraging win over Tennessee, the Gators were upset by Kentucky, failing to score on the final drive. A bounce-back win over Vanderbilt appeared to put Florida in position to roll over injury-depleted LSU, but they fell in Death Valley 49-42, again failing to score at the end.

Dan Mullen’s encouragement comes at an opportune time. The schedule does ease up after Georgia, with South Carolina, Samford, Missouri and Florida State on tap. But a three or four loss season is already outside the realm of 2021 expectations.

Florida’s quarterback controversy

Throughout the season, Florida’s quarterback controversy has frustrated Dan Mullen. The play of Emory Jones and Anthony Richardson, who both take snaps at quarterback, continues to create debate amongst fans.

Mullen decided against naming a starter on Wednesday’s SEC coaches teleconference, but offered a cagey answer to further questions about the controversy.

“Uh, like every day, we’ll look at everything and we evaluate everything that we do all the time,” stated Mullen. “Just like at every position or spot on the field. We have both guys that have played a bunch, who have experience, and we’re fortunate to have two guys that are a pretty good combination out on the field together.”

Continuing, the Florida coach also stated that he won’t reveal the quarterback who will take the first snaps of the game.

“I’m never going to get into the strategy of what we’re going to do in a game,” said Mullen. “Like I’ve said, we’ve played both quarterbacks in every game and I’m not going to get into the strategy of when I’m going to play the different guys. I’m not going to tell you what the first play of the game is going to be if that’s what you’re asking.”