More suspensions coming for Florida Gators opener?
By Joe Romano
There are only two days until the first Saturday of college football and a big matchup may be missing some key players. More suspensions may be coming for the Florida Gators.
The University of Florida kicks off their 2017 college football season against the Michigan Wolverines on Saturday September 2nd. The SEC-BIG Ten duel is one of a handful of compelling opening weekend match-ups.
The team has already suspended leading rusher Jordan Scarlett and top wide receiver Antonio Callaway. The two top offensive weapons are joined by seven teammates missing the flight to Texas. More suspensions are looming for the Florida program.
According to Zach Aldridge of Spectrum Sports, the team may not be done issuing suspensions.
"The Gators will now be without 10 players for Saturday’s opener, but that number could rise. A source tells Spectrum Sports more players will be suspended in the future due to their involvement in the ongoing UFPD investigation."
The investigation by University of Florida Police Department that Aldridge mentions in the above quote is in reference to misuse of school funds by Gator players. Mark Long of Associated Press broke the news on Twitter of the Scarlett suspension.
Gators RB Scarlett and WR Wells also involved in the debit card scam that has seven others suspended for opener vs Michigan
— Mark Long (@APMarkLong) August 30, 2017
The two new names added to the list of suspensions were given to the UFPD by another Gator player. It is unclear if the player gave the UFPD more names than just Scarlett and Wells.
One thing is for sure. The Gators have named their starting quarterback for the game. Redshirt freshman Feleipe Franks will be under center against the Wolverines.
.@CoachMcElwain has named @18franks Florida's starting QB in Saturday's season opener.
— Florida Gators Football (@GatorsFB) August 30, 2017
📰 via @GatorsScott: https://t.co/2QMnfLoY0x pic.twitter.com/ZjDrQC7Mvx
Notre Dame transfer Malik Zaire entered camp as the presumed starter. However, he was unable to out-duel the younger player. Franks, Zaire and incumbent starter Luke Del Rio may all see snaps against the Wolverines. Coach Jim McElwain has said previously that he will not hesitate to play three quarterbacks.
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Michigan enters the game ranked No. 11 in the country. Florida currently sits at No.
17 in the AP Poll. The tough test for both teams certainly got a little easier for the Wolverines on Saturday.