Today the Florida Gators held their annual Orange and Blue Spring Game and first under new head coach Jon Sumrall.
Like any spring game, projecting anything concrete can be risky. And for Florida in 2026, that caveat carries even more weight than usual.
The Gators are essentially building from scratch under first year head coach Jon Sumrall. Add in to the mix two new coordinators, a wave of transfers, a rebuilt offensive line, and a quarterback competition between two players who have barely seen the field at the college level.
The Orange & Blue Game was always going to be more about impressions than conclusions.
On that front, the quarterbacks delivered some encouraging ones.
Aaron Philo and Tramell Jones both showed why this competition is legitimate. Philo, the Georgia Tech transfer, ran the offense efficiently, worked well in the short and intermediate game, and finished 21-of-28 for 193 yards and two touchdowns – Though he did commit two turnovers that took some shine off the day.
Jones was sharper statistically, going 13-of-17 for 210 yards and two scores, including a 75-yard head-turning touchdown. His ball held up better in the wind, and he looked composed. Neither player locked anything up, and this battle is almost certainly heading deep into August camp.
The receiver group looks like a legitimate strength. Vernell Brown III continues to impress, Eric Singleton brings killer speed from Auburn, and Micah Mays backed up the praise he's received all spring. Dallas Wilson hasn't been healthy yet, but once he is, this unit gets even more dangerous.
The offensive line is the honest concern. Five sacks were recorded Saturday, and the run game lacked consistent push. Sumrall and offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner acknowledged the group has ground to cover, while still expressing belief in its potential. That's the right attitude — but potential doesn't block SEC defensive linemen.
Faulkner's offense showed tempo and variety, which was at least a promising sign of identity heading into the new season.
But the real work starts in August.