For the second year in a row, redshirt sophomore quarterback Feleipe Franks named Florida’s starting QB. Franks won the competition by outplaying redshirt sophomore Kyle Trask and freshman Emory Jones. Dan Mullen announced that Franks would be the starting quarterback in a press conference after their second scrimmage. The Gators head coach said early in the fall that he wanted to name a starter as soon as possible. Franks was the leader for the starting job since spring camp and continued to improve in the fall.
In the 2017 season, Franks played in every game and started in eight of them. The former Army All-American had a rough redshirt freshman season as he threw nine touchdowns passes with eight interceptions. One of the biggest issues for Franks was his decision making. He had a tendency to stare down receivers and take too many sacks. It was a tough season for Franks but he did have some good moments. The biggest moment was against rival Tennessee. Franks threw for 212 yards with two touchdowns including the game-winning 63-yard touchdown pass to Tyrie Cleveland. Also, against Vanderbilt, Franks completed 10 out of 14 passes for 185 yards.
Season Opener
The 2018 Gators will open their season against the Charleston Southern University Buccaneers. It will be a much easier season opener for Franks as he started his collegiate career against the Michigan Wolverines. It will also be the first game for Mullen as the Florida head coach. Mullen will likely try to achieve a comfortable victory. This could help his young offense gain confidence while also giving the fans what they want. Franks will have a talented receiving core and a loaded running back group to help him.
