Florida Football: 3 keys for successful 2020 season

2. Create a stable offensive line

One of the biggest kryptonite for the Gators’ offense last season was the reliability of their offensive line. Last season, the offensive line gave up a total of 25 sacks from opposing defenses. They were ranked 92nd in the nation by Pro Football Focus out of all 130 FBS offensive line units.

There was not a contributor on the line that was graded more than 85 overall scores by the end of the season. The Gators struggled to create a run game due to the inefficiency of the offensive line. They were ranked 107th in the nation in rushing yards per game (130). Offensive coordinators Billy Gonzales and John Hevesy made running back Lamical Perine a flex running back/receiver to contribute more impact of his potential.

With the summer workouts starting for most teams, the Gators are looking to make one of their biggest weaknesses last season into one of their biggest strengths. Florida returns three of its starting offensive linemen from last season in senior tackles Stone Forsythe and Jean Delance and senior center Brent Heggie.

The other remaining positions in both guards seemed to be solid with redshirt sophomore Richard Gouraige at the left guard and sophomore Ethan White at the right guard. Both Gouraige and White played well as backups for the Gators last season. Florida does have a four-star guard in former Mississippi State star Stewart Reese transferring to the team. The lack of spring football practices and scrimmage has halted the complete development of the potential starters.

ESPN’s Cole Cubelic has the Gators’ offensive line as the fifth-ranked offensive line in the SEC behind Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky and Georgia. They will look for more consistency throughout the season now that they have depth and experience.