The Florida Gators and Miami Hurricanes are set to face off in a major in-state showdown to kick off the season, with both teams aiming for a better start than Florida State’s.
The Gators face a challenging matchup against the 19th-ranked Hurricanes.
“This week’s opponent is highly respected, ranked in both polls, with several All-American and all-conference players. They’re predicted to make the Playoff and win their conference, so we definitely respect them,” Florida head coach Billy Napier said earlier this week, referencing Miami (via On3).
For Florida, it’s crucial to compete strongly against Miami. If Napier wants to secure a fourth season (he has an 11-14 record over two seasons in Gainesville), he may need to beat Miami. There was positive news for the Gators as they released their two-deep depth chart ahead of the game.
Senior running back Montrell Johnson Jr., who was previously questionable, is listed as RB1.
Johnson underwent arthroscopic knee surgery a few weeks ago and was considered week-to-week, but he’s not just on the depth chart as a formality. The Gators expect him to play against Miami, according to Napier.
“We expect Montrell to be available,” Napier stated on the team website. “If he’s at the top of the depth chart, he’s ready to go.”
This is significant news for Florida.
Johnson has been the Gators’ leading rusher for the past two seasons, with 817 yards and five touchdowns in 2023 and 827 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2022.”Florida Gators Prepare for High-Stakes Season Opener Against Miami Hurricanes”
