Gators Rely on Baugh Confidence

Jadan Baugh is bringing a personal history into the upcoming rivalry game against Georgia. The Florida running back was originally recruited by the Bulldogs as a linebacker before the teams parted ways over his position.

Baugh, a native of Georgia, views that initial uncertainty as a source of motivation for his return to the home state. He noted that recruiters often overlooked him in favor of other prospects during his high school years.

"Everybody was looking over me and looking at other guys," Baugh said. "I believe in my talent so much and I put so much work in to a point where I don't feel like nobody's better than me. They were looking over me, but I didn't care too much. Florida gave me a platform and brought me in with open arms to just go out here and play the best ball I could play. I'm a Florida Gator."

That self-assurance was evident in Florida's recent victory over Texas. Baugh rushed for 91 yards and scored one touchdown in that contest, helping the No. 17 Gators secure the win.

The quarterback decision remains the primary focus for head coach Jon Sumrall as the team prepares. Aaron Philo is expected to be healthy, while Tramell Jones started the previous game. Sumrall stated that weekly practice performance will determine who takes the field in Atlanta.

"You take into account most recent activities, how they are doing right now," Sumrall said. "If one guy goes out all week and practices really good and the other guy doesn't, that'll tell me something. It's who can function, who can operate, who can make the throws, who can get us in and out of things. Both of them are in a good spot with all that."

Wide receiver Vernell Brown III is also expected to return to the lineup. He missed the last two games due to a knee strain, but Sumrall reported that Brown looked normal in recent practice sessions. The Gators hope to utilize him as a deep threat against the Bulldogs. Florida travels to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta for a 3:30 p.m. start on Saturday, with the game airing on TV20.