Tramell Jones Jr. to start for Florida against Oklahoma

Sophomore quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. will make his second career start and his first at The Swamp on Saturday when the No. 24 Florida Gators face Oklahoma at 7:45 p.m., according to multiple media reports Thursday.

The Jacksonville native takes over as QB1 after splitting playing time with Aaron Philo during Florida’s 27-8 loss to Georgia last Saturday in Atlanta. Philo opened that SEC contest before Jones replaced him in the second quarter. Jones finished 18-of-25 passing for 172 yards and one interception against the Bulldogs, while also scoring Florida’s only touchdown on a 2-yard run in the fourth quarter.

Development and Preparation Under Center

Offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner noted Tuesday that the coaching staff has been encouraged by Jones’ development, particularly his poise when plays break down.

“I attribute that to a lot of poise and preparation. I thought he did a good job,” Faulkner said.

Jones’ previous start occurred on Oct. 17 against then-No. 7 Texas while Philo was sidelined with a shoulder injury. In that outing, Jones led the Gators to a 27-24 upset victory by completing 22 of 35 passes for 155 yards and two touchdowns, accompanied by 41 rushing yards.

Philo started the first six games of the season for Florida before missing the Texas matchup. He returned to action against Georgia, throwing two interceptions prior to his substitution.

Gators and Oklahoma Enter Matchup with Similar Records

The Gators enter the matchup with a 5-3 overall record and a 3-3 mark in conference play, while Oklahoma stands at 4-4 overall and 2-3 in the SEC. Radio coverage begins Saturday at 4:45 p.m. on WRUF 98.1-FM, 850-AM, and 103.7 HD2. Television broadcast coverage is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. on the SEC Network.

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