Five Eastern Washington Eagles to watch vs Florida

The Florida Gators (2-2) are looking to get back above .500 on Sunday against the Eastern Washington Eagles (1-2).

It’s the first ever meeting between the Eagles and the Gators. Florida is 67-17-4 (.784) against FCS opponents all time.

The Eagles are certainly coming into Gainesville looking to leave with a victory. 

Here are five Eastern Washington players who can help the Eagles pull off the upset over UF:

Quarterback Gunner Talkington

2022 stats: 57/93 (61.3%), 636 yards, 10 passing touchdowns, three interceptions and 24 carries for 79 yards

With his dual threat ability, Talkington can certainly do some damage against the Florida defense. On that side of the ball, the Gators have shown vulnerabilities when it comes to both pass and run defense. Florida has also struggled to get enough pressure to finish with a sack, and it has hurt the Gators in multiple games. It’s going to be a tough environment for Talkington, but UF is going to have to keep him in check in order to avoid the upset.

Running back Micah Smith

2022 stats: 24 carries, 162 yards, two rushing touchdowns and two catches for 11 yards

It’s no secret that Smith is the No. 1 running back for the Eagles. Taking down the Gators’ relatively thin and young defensive line starts with the run game. If Smith can move the ball consistently, the Eagles will be able to really open up the offense especially with the play-action pass. If Eastern Washington leaves the Swamp with a win, Smith’s name will be in the headlines on Monday morning.

Wide receiver Freddie Roberson

2022 stats: 11 receptions, 214 yards and two touchdowns

Although he doesn’t have the most receptions on the team, Roberson’s big play ability is what sets him apart from the rest of his wideout teammates. His 6-foot-2, 195-pound frame gives him the ability to use his speed in space while also being able to go up and get a jump ball.

 The Florida secondary was tested and then some against Tennessee last Saturday. This game feels like one that the UF defensive back group will look to reset the tone, and it’s Roberson’s job to spoil that. 

Safety Ely Doyle

2022 stats: 26 total tackles, two pass deflections

The Arizona State transfer has certainly made his mark on the Eastern Washington defense since joining the team in 2020. Doyle is a guy who can make plays in coverage and while defending the run as he leads the Eagles in tackles. UF quarterback Anthony Richardson will have to keep his eye out for Doyle when looking to make big throws. Florida has established the offense can make the big plays behind the arm of Richardson, but Doyle could put a slow to that with added pressure in the backfield and overtop at safety.

Defensive end Mitchell Johnson

2022 stats: 17 total tackles and two sacks for 17 yards

Now in his fifth season, Johnson is already putting up better numbers than he had in the previous four. He’ll look to provide pressure in the passing game. Johnson will really be able to leave his mark on this football game if he can provide consistent and strong run defense. The Florida offensive line has struggled at times this season, and Johnson could be in a great position to capitalize on Saturday.

Stay tuned to Gators Online.