Gators
Class Analysis:
Since the Tim Tebow era, the Gators haven’t been known for their offense, rather defense has reigned supreme, and considering all the talent that they are losing to the upcoming draft, they filled their needs on the defensive side pretty well. Obviously you have five star CB Jalen Tabor, who flipped after only a few days as an Arizona Wildcat, leading the way for the defensive recruits, but you have some other big names to look out for. Khairi Clark and Thomas Holley are probably two of the best DT’s that you will find in the 2014 class, and both decided to become Gators after flipping from Miami and Penn State, respectively.
The only knock I have on the Gators class, is that there doesn’t seem to be much talent at WR coming in, although there is potential there. With Jeff Driskel, Andre Dubose, and almost the entire OL returning from injury, there is an argument that they don’t need as many offensive recruits. It would seem that Muschamp isn’t taking chances with his OL this year though, because just like the Vols, the Gators currently have commitments from multiple linemen, with the biggest name being David Sharpe.
The Gators have gained a large amount of talent on both sides, with the newest addition, four star WR J.C Jackson, being a candidate for immediate playing time.
Despite losing out on a few five stars before NSD, the Gators offense will get a huge boost from these freshmen, as well the continuation of Florida’s defensive success with recruits like five star CB Jalen Tabor and four star DT Thomas Holley.
Top Impact
Player:
Flipping Holley from Penn State was a huge get for Muschamp and his staff, because it continues Florida’s success with getting talent on the defensive side. Considering that Florida has a good amount of depth at D-line, Holley probably will not be starting at the start of season, but he will get in the rotation and see a good amount of snaps. He has a massive frame and decent ability in pass rushing and run blocking.
Since Tim Tebow’s departure, the Gators have lacked a cohesive offensive unit, and Kurt Roper will have a long season ahead of him, but Jackson should be in line to help immediately. Despite not having a prototypical body for a WR, Jackson knows how to use it. Watching his film, he has a good set of hands, and has a large amount of big play ability, which is something Florida has been lacking with their recent wide outs, and will help Jackson see the field early.
With Florida losing both Loucheiz Purifoy and Marcus Roberson to this season’s draft, there are opportunities for Tabor to contribute early. Like Green, he may not be the fastest, but Tabor has a high football I.Q and has very good initial quickness, as well as a good amount of strength for a defensive back. While it is almost guaranteed that Vernon Hargreaves starts at one of the CB positions, Tabor is sure to find a place in the rotation, if not start next season.
Underrated:
The pick here is Brandon Powell, who came onto the Gators’ radar until Dalvin Cook left for FSU. What he lacks in size, he makes up for with a good amount of speed. He may not be an every down type player in the SEC, but depending on where the Gators choose to play him, he could make a great impact on the team.