Tramell Jones may get his first start as Florida tries to revive its offense

Florida may hand Tramell Jones Jr. his first college start at Texas, with the Gators trying to restart an offense that has produced four touchdowns and four turnovers over its past two games.

On3’s Pete Nakos reported Friday that Jones is expected to start Saturday while Aaron Philo works through a shoulder injury. The final call is due Saturday morning.

That leaves a difference between the expected starter and an announced decision. Philo has been limited this week, and Jones has taken first-team reps, but Friday’s report does not rule Philo out.

Jones has appeared in relief in five games this season. Florida lists him at 23 completions in 29 attempts for 252 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Saturday would give him an entire game plan to run against a ranked opponent rather than a second-half assignment.

Philo hurt his throwing shoulder in the October 10 loss to South Carolina. Coach Jon Sumrall said earlier in the week that he believes Jones can start and win games for Florida.

The assignment would come on the road against No. 7 Texas, which is 4-1 overall and 1-1 in the SEC after losing to Oklahoma. Florida is 4-2 and 2-2 after consecutive losses to Missouri and South Carolina.

Kickoff in Austin is scheduled for noon ET Saturday on ABC. Florida follows the Texas trip with games against Georgia, Oklahoma and Kentucky.

Sources

Florida’s expected quarterback change · Florida’s official Texas preview and quarterback statistics · Orlando Sentinel’s Edgar Thompson reports on Florida’s quarterback uncertainty