Florida senior safety Josh Evans is working through a difficult situation back home that has given him a little extra motivation on the field.
The Irvington, N.J., native has several family members who were affected by Hurricane Sandy. Some of his family members are in their second week without power, which is on Evans’ mind as No. 7 Florida heads into Saturday’s game against Louisiana-Lafayette (12:21 p.m., SEC Network).
“It was very scary,” he said. “I had a chip on my shoulder this weekend to go out there and play harder for my family and the struggle they’re going through. It had me a little emotional over the weekend to just play my heart out. It’s been tough.”
Evans leads Florida with 62 tackles on the season. He also has two interceptions, including one in the end zone on the final play of the Gators’ 14-7 win over Missouri last week.
Faster approach: In an attempt to shake the team out of its slow starts, offensive coordinator Brent Pease opened last week with the hurry-up offense. The Gators did not score on their opening drive, but Pease was pleased that they moved the ball from their own 24-yard line to Missouri's 28.
He used it for two series in that game and expects to implement it throughout the rest of the season.
“I think it loosened them up and got some energy in our kids,” he said. “I would expect that we would use it. The thing about it is you’ve got to be consistent with it because things can change when you’re not out on the field for very long, so you put your defense in a tough situation.”
McCray feeling good: Florida defensive end Lerentee McCray seems ready to return after missing last week's game with an ankle injury. He was injured against Georgia two weeks ago.
“It’s coming along,” he said. “I practiced yesterday, went through the drills. I did everything.”
McCray starts at the Buck position, a combination between a defensive end and an outside linebacker. He has 18 tackles, two sacks and two quarterback hurries.
About the Author
