Billy Napier: Kingsley Eguakun's status 'to be determined' for Kentucky game

For the first time in the Billy Napier era, Florida is on a three-game winning streak. Tennessee was the premier victory but the two conference games were nice as well. But the punches are going to keep on coming for the Gators, with a road trip to Lexington on deck.

Hopefully, Florida could be getting a huge boost ahead of the Kentucky game. Napier said the starting status of starting center Kingsley Eguakun is still in the air. However, Napier expects the offensive lineman to practice on Tuesday and a further update will be provided later in the week.

“I think it’s to be determined,” Napier said. “He’s made progress. We anticipate him practicing tomorrow (Tuesday). I’ll be able to let you know more on Wednesday night.”

Eguakun has only played in one game this year, making his 2023 debut against Tennessee. An ankle injury has kept him out otherwise, even in last Saturday’s game against Charlotte. Florida has a 2-1 record without him in the lineup.

It’s no secret how important of a player Eguakun is to the Gators’ makeup. Heading into the Tennessee game, Nick de la Torre of On3’s Gators Online called Eguakun the quarterback of the Florida offensive line. Not just because of what he would do in present-day but his experience would be crucial with some fresh faces in other places.

Florida will be hoping Eguakun can get back onto the field in what should be a massive game SEC East game against Kentucky.

Billy Napier preparing for another test against Kentucky

There is seemingly a test everywhere on the Florida schedule. Taking down Tennessee was such an important one for Napier but Kentucky can wipe it all away on Saturday. In a rivalry the Gators have historically dominated, Mark Stoops has been on the winning end in recent times.

Kentucky has won two in a row, including last year’s game in Gainesville. Napier needs to get Florida back on track in what has traditionally been an early season game in the SEC East. Starting with a 2-0 record in the conference would maybe give a glimmer of hope of playing in Atlanta for a championship.

While the hosts are undefeated, they have not had too big of an opponent come through town yet. Vanderbilt has been the Power Five team on the schedule thus far. Playing against Florida should be quite the step up in competition.