When Florida took a big lead over Idaho on Saturday, Gators coach Dan Mullen opted to pull starting quarterback Feleipe Franks in order to get true freshman Emory Jones some experience under center.

Jones had a strong showing, completing 12 of his 16 pass attempts for 125 yards and two touchdown in Florida’s 63-10 victory.

“I was really pleased to get [Jones] in as early as we did and get him as many reps as we could,” Mullen said during his postgame press conference. “He’s one play away from being in the game next week. He could be in the second play of the game next week. And now he’s got a little bit more experience on game day, in there running the show by himself. Not just with a small package, having to go run the whole offense.”

While Jones could play against Florida State if Franks were to get injured, the Gators may opt to sit Jones, who has appeared in three games this season. Jones can play in four games and still redshirt this season, keeping an extra year of eligibility.

Mullen was impressed with Jones’ performance against Idaho on Saturday.

“He can throw the ball,” Mullen said. “I think one of the things even when we were recruiting him, we looked at him like he was a pocket passer more than a dual-threat guy. He just happens to be a great athlete.”

The Gators play Florida State next Saturday in their final game of the regular season. Then, they will play a bowl game. So Jones will need to not play in one of them to still be able to redshirt this year.