Florida Football: 3 takeaways from shutout win over UT Martin

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GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 07: Dameon Pierce #27 of the Florida Gators runs for yardage during the game against the Tennessee Martin Skyhawks at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on September 07, 2019 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images) /

2. Offensive line started slow but improved

Coming into the 2019 season, the offensive line was the number one concern on the offensive side of the ball. And after posting only 52 rushing yards in their first game, the questions still remained heading into the UT Martin.

It’s fair to say those questions will linger another week.

Early in the first half, it became clear the offensive staff would be calling lots of running plays in order to give the line the opportunity to enforce its will. Despite the emphasis and an inferior opponent, the Gators were only able to record 83 first half rushing yards.

Even with a better effort in the second half, the line never truly dominated – though they at least opened large enough holes for consistent five to six-yard gains.

The one area in which the offensive line did excel was pass protection as they consistently gave Feleipe Franks plenty of time to go through his reads.

With a much better Kentucky team on the docket for next week, the offensive line needs to continue to improve, specifically in the running game. Lamical Perine was supposed to be one of the Gators best weapons, but hasn’t had a chance to shine.

With only 51 yards against the Skyhawks, Perine have to wait one more week for another chance.

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