Gators counting on Tebow to stay healthy
HOOVER, ALA. - Sophomore Tim Tebow will be under center when Florida opens the season against Western Kentucky.
But what happens if Tebow gets injured in 2007? Don't ask Florida coach Urban Meyer.
"Oh. Turn around and punch him right in the mouth, will you," Meyer said about a reporter who asked about the prospects Thursday during SEC Media Days.
Meyer was joking. But the prospects aren't a laughing matter for the Gators, who are counting on the left-hander to make a smooth transition from part-time phenom to full-time quarterback this fall.
Tebow will take the reins of Meyer's spread offense after the departure of four-year starter Chris Leak. He rushed for 469 yards and threw for 358 in a backup role, helping the Gators win the national title.
After him, none of the others - Cameron Newton, John Brantley and Bryan Waggener - has Division I experience.
Meyer said all of them are talented players. But he's hoping none of the three will be counted on as much as Tebow this season.
"For (an injury) to happen, it would hurt our chances significantly," Meyer said.
CHANGE AT TOP
Vanderbilt didn't have a head coaching change this off-season. But the Commodores did experience a high-profile change at the top of the school.
Chancellor Gordon Gee recently left his post to become president at Ohio State. Gee made national news when he eliminated the athletics director position at the prestigious university known for its commitment to academics. The chancellor integrated the department into another one on campus.
Johnson said Gee's departure shouldn't have a big impact.
DOGGIN' IT
There's one bright spot to Nick Saban's move from LSU to Alabama in the SEC Western Division - his dog, Lizzie, wasn't loose in the Wynfrey Hotel.
Saban always brought his wife and dog to SEC Media Days when he was at LSU. Three years ago, Lizzie got out of Saban's hotel room, got in the elevator and wandered into the middle of the media gathering.
"She's not here and Terry is not here, but they're doing fine," Saban said. "I appreciate you mentioning it."
CHEERS, BAMA
Everett Hoaghland was among the throng of fans hoping to get Saban's autograph in the lobby of the Wynfrey Hotel lobby on Thursday morning.
The soon-to-be Alabama freshman said the scene was reminiscent of Saban's arrival at the airport last winter, when fans packed the place to catch a glimpse of the new coach.
Hoaghland - who said he was thrilled to shake Saban's hand that day - said there was one big difference Thursday.
"There aren't as many drunk people here," he said.
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