SEC Football 2017: Biggest x-factor for every team

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TAMPA, FL – JANUARY 02: Florida Gators wide receiver Antonio Callaway (81) in action during the 2017 Outback Bowl between the Florida Gators and Iowa Hawkeyes on January 2, 2017, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. (Photo by Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Florida – Antonio Callaway

Speed kills; when it comes to Antonio Callaway, he’s certainly a guy that can take the top off the defense. The problem with Florida in recent years is that they have been plagued by awful quarterback play. Now it’s the Malik Zaire show who will have the opportunity to air it out to Callaway, who will miss the season opener vs. Michigan due to suspension. If Zaire fails to impress, it will be Luke Del Rio back in action. Jim McElwain, the former Alabama offensive coordinator, and Colorado State head coach deserves a ton of praise for winning 19 games in his first two years as the Gators head coach.

Callaway, a Junior, could have his way ticketed for the first round if he has a big year. Callaway hauled in 89 catches for nearly 1,400 yards and seven touchdowns. If Callaway gets anything from his quarterback for once, his numbers could skyrocket. Florida has really struggled offensively in recent years but Callaway gives them that over the top element.

Callaway is really the key to the Gators season. They also seem to be loaded on the defensive side of the ball, that parts a given. If Florida can execute the air attack, the rest of the offense will be opened up. Jordan Scarlett returns as a reliable back in the mold who is eerily similar to Matt Jones. Florida may just be better than you think. In the weaker SEC East, there’s no reason to think they can’t represent their side in the conference title game.

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