Florida begins their spring practice in just two days, and as one might expect, there are some position changes in the making.
Not immune to those changes are two players who impacted what was otherwise an inconsistent, and if you’re a Gator fan, frustrating offense in 2010.
New offensive coordinator Charlie Weis told ESPN’s Mark Schlabach that quarterbacks Trey Burton and Jordan Reed will be looking to help the Gators’ offense in other ways this spring. According to Weis, Reed will try his luck at tight end, and Burton will look to take on a hybrid, “F-back” position.
In addition to moving to a more pro-style offense that better suits the skills of incumbent starter John Brantley, the Gators were also loaded at the quarterback spot. Behind Brantley -- at least in the initial depth chart -- were Burton, Reed, sophomore Tyler Murphy and highly touted freshman Jeff Driskel.
Playing time and comfort level clearly influenced the decision.
“Could Jordan play quarterback? You betcha. Jordan can play quarterback and he can sling it. But Jordan sees himself as a tight end,” Weis said.
“Burton didn’t really see himself as a quarterback. He just didn’t know what he was. I think more than anything, he was just trying to find a home and niche and grow into a position.”
2010’s numbers show that the moves by Burton and Reed may turn out to be logical ones. Reed accounted for only 3 of Gators’ 12 passing touchdowns (Burton had none) last season, but the two combined for 18 rushing and receiving touchdowns -- nearly half the team’s totals.