Written by Ethan Bauer at Miami Herald.com
Randy Shannon’s mission one day into his limited tenure as Florida’s head coach is clear: Forget what happened to Jim McElwain and get the team to forget, too.
Shannon emphasized what’s ahead in his first address to his players: the four remaining games that will determine Florida’s bowl eligibility, starting with this weekend’s contest halfway across the country against Missouri.
“Nothing matters but this game coming up against Missouri,” he told them. “You have a chance to play in another SEC stadium, another chance on the road, another chance to improve what we’re trying to get done.”
It was also clear Shannon, despite coaching the Gators on an interim basis, is making changes right away. Monday’s practice, for example, was held at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium rather than at the team’s practice facility like usual. Senior receiver Brandon Powell couldn’t remember the last time that happened. He also changed open-viewing periods of practice for reporters, changed schedules and changed duties.
He promoted defensive line coach Chris Rumph to his old spot as defensive coordinator. He promoted former Idaho head coach Robb Akey from defensive quality control to Rumph’s old job. And he said despite his focus on defense so far at Florida, he plans to get involved in the offense. This is his team, even if only for about a month.
“He’s definitely respected by all the players, and he brings a little swagger to the team,” punter Johnny Townsend said, “so it’s a good replacement for now.”
Another change is renewed competition, which players parroted after practice.
To continue reading this article, click here.
