Gators Release Depth Chart for Michigan Game

Gators Release Depth Chart for Michigan Game

Tuesday, August 29, 2017 | Football

Coach Jim McElwain continues to evaluate the quarterback battle between Luke Del Rio, Feleipe Franks and Malik Zaire.

By: Will Pantages

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Gators released their depth chart on Tuesday for the season opener Saturday against Michigan.

Quarterback is the main question entering the Advocare Classic, but the competition is not over.

The battle between last year's season-opening starter Luke Del Rio, redshirt freshman Feleipe Franks and newcomer Malik Zaire has been closely contested and tracked by McElwain throughout preseason camp.

Franks was No. 1 on the depth chart coming out of spring came as Del Rio recovered from multiple surgeries. Zaire, a fifth-year graduate student transfer from Notre Dame, joined the mix late in the summer.

The three receivers atop the depth chart are Brandon Powell, Tyrie Cleveland and Josh Hammond. Meanwhile, Jordan Scarlett sits as the top tailback with Lamical Perine, Mark Thompson, Malik Davis and Adarius Lemons behind him.

In addition, veterans DeAndre Goolsby and C'yontai Lewis are listed together at the top of the tight end position.

With Marcell Harris lost for the season due to injury, sophomore Chauncey Gardner has taken his place at free safety. Meanwhile, redshirt senior Nick Washington will start next to him.

Duke Dawson is atop the depth chart at one cornerback spot with true freshmen Marco Wilson, C.J. Henderson and senior Joseph Putu all splitting time opposite of him. Look for Wilson to be lined up at nickel as well.

Florida returns four linebackers with playing and starting experience with David Reese, Vosean Joseph, Kylan Johnson and Jeremiah Moon.

A look at the complete depth chart: