After a turbulent 2010 season that included a five-game suspension, Chris Rainey is one of several Florida seniors seeking a big improvement.Will anything be similar on Florida’s offense this season compared to a year ago?
The Gators have scrapped the spread for a pro-style attack under new coordinator Charlie Weis, and some of the more familiar players may be difficult to spot during the first few weeks. Top tailbacks Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey have opted for new numbers as seniors, with Demps switching from No. 2 to No. 28 and Rainey from No. 3 to No. 1, and they are expected to be in the game together more under Weis.
“We really like that,” Demps said. “It takes some pressure off of me and him. Instead of having to worry about one person, other teams have to worry about two.”
Florida is expected to open the Will Muschamp era with a waxing of Florida Atlantic and coach Howard Schnellenberger this Saturday night in Gainesville, but that seems almost secondary to how the Gators will look offensively under Weis. The unit is filled with skilled seniors seeking to rebound from disappointing 2010 seasons, with quarterback John Brantley and receiver Deonte Thompson displaying motivation similar to Demps and Rainey.
Muschamp admits he’s eager to get the fresh start going.