On this date in Gators history: Aug. 30, 2008
Thursday, August 30, 2012 | Football, Chris Harry
The fifth-ranked Gators scored on offense, defense and special teams in defeating Hawaii 56-10 to open the 2008 season.
Reigning Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow didn't have to do much (9-for-14, 137 yards, 1 TD) because freshman tailback Chris Rainey had a 33-yard touchdown run in the first quarter to give UF a 28-0 lead and Brandon James (left) scored on a 1-yard and 74-yard punt return.
Florida's defense forced six turnovers, including a 32-yard interception return for a touchdown by safety Major Wright.
“Big plays take the wind out of your sails,” UF coach Urban Meyer said. “Can you expect that from us? I don't know. There's some guys that when they touch the ball and if you make a mistake, they can score on you. Fun to watch.”
Good start to what turned out to be a great (national championship-winning) season.
