Gators Continue to Deal with Distractions

It started with playing against Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin for the first time. Then, it was players with flu-like symptoms heading to Kentucky. Following that, Florida Gators' head coach Urban Meyer had to deal with the QB Tim Tebow-concussion frenzy. Now, it is LB Brandon Spikes’ suspension for eye gouging. For most games, the Gators have had to cope with distractions off the field.

Despite Meyer understanding there will be distractions, this is starting to get ridiculous.

“Distractions are part of the deal,” Meyer said. “I can’t think of a game we didn’t have a distraction this year.”

Another possible distraction this week has been the possibility that Meyer might get suspended or fined for his remarks about the Southeastern Conference officials missing a late hit against Georgia.

Meyer said he had not been contacted by the SEC office about the situation.

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-WR Deonte Thompson (ribs) and RB Chris Rainey (shoulder) are expected to play Saturday, Meyer said.

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-He also thinks RB Mike Gillislee will play on kickoff for him. “Kickoff is going to be critical this week.”

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- CB Moses Jenkins still hasn’t returned from a concussion he suffered against Kentucky on Sept. 26. “He’s trying everything he can. Louis Murphy had a similar injury, and it last several months.”

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- LB Brandon Hicks won’t play because of a hamstring injury he suffered against Georgia. With him and Spikes out, freshman Jon Bostic could see playing time as Ryan Stamper’s backup at middle linebacker. “He has had a very good week of practice.”

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- After missing time because of injuries, DTs Lawrence Marsh and Jaye Howard was not back in form against the Bulldogs. “Marsh and Jaye Howard didn’t play great Saturday because they hadn’t practice. They worked hard and had much better week of practice.”

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- Meyer was very pleased with the effort he got out of his team today at practice. “Today was one of our best Thursdays.”