Burton enters sophomore season prepared for new role and with a few extra pounds to help out
Friday, July 29, 2011 | Football, Women's Swimming & Diving, Scott Carter
Florida's Mr. Versatile did a little bit of everything his freshman season.
Trey Burton played quarterback, running back, tight end and receiver.
As if that wasn't enough his first year of college, Burton actually grew in the offseason, adding 10 pounds to a 6-foot-2 frame that is closer to 6-3 these days. Considering the size of the Burton boys – his brother Clay is a freshman defensive lineman listed at 6-4, 252 – it won't be a surprise if Burton continues to grow.
The extra size should help him in his revised role in the Gators' pro-style offense. Burton is expected fill the primary role of Florida's big back with speedsters Jeff Demps (5-8, 188) and Chris Rainey (5-9, 180) offering a different look.
This is Burton's first time in a pro-style offense. He played in a spread attack at Venice High and with the Gators last season. While his role will change – Burton is considered more of an H-back/fullback in offensive coordinator Charlie Weis' offense, his attitude has not.
“Hopefully I'm out there playing like I did last year,'' Burton said. “I'm the biggest running back we have. I feel they are going to need me because I'm a big guy compared to Demps and Rainey. They have more speed than I do, but I'm pretty fast, too.''
Burton's breakout game as a freshman was his six-touchdown performance against Kentucky four games into his college career. However, he had his best game as a runner in Florida's 34-31 overtime win over Georgia, finishing with 110 yards on 17 carries.
He also showed off some of that speed with a 51-yard touchdown run.
Burton said he is comfortable in the Gators' revamped offense and plans to show the same willingness to do whatever it takes to get on the field as last season when, after backing up John Brantley the first week of fall camp, Burton went to former coach Urban Meyer and stressed that he would play any position if it meant getting on the field.
Soon, he was playing more positions than he ever expected.
“I was a three-star recruit. No one really knew who I was,'' he said. “I came in all quiet and didn't say too much. I was just happy that Coach Meyer let me play. I thought I was going to be the back-up to [quarterback John] Brantley.
“I would sit in my room and think about it. I mean, I've never sat since I was born. In every sport I ever played, I started. I was thinking, 'Man, there is no way I can now just sit the bench and be a hand signaler.' That's what made me want to go to Coach Meyer.''
Burton finished the season with 349 yards rushing, 210 receiving and 83 passing as Florida's do-it-all quarterback/running back/receiver. He also led the team with 12 touchdowns, 11 of them rushing.
“I just wanted to get on the field,'' he said. “It was fun. I learned a lot that is helping me now.''
