Florida’s 45-16 loss against Missouri last season was the team’s first under an interim coach after Jim McElwain’s firing.

Though McElwain’s permanent replacement wasn’t with the team then, he believes this year’s Gators are drawing on that game as they prepare to face the Tigers on Saturday.

“Our guys know what happened last year,” Dan Mullen said during the SEC Coaches Teleconference on Wednesday. “I imagine the guys that played will use it as motivation this year.”

No. 11 Florida (6-2, 4-2 SEC) hosts Missouri (4-4, 0-4) at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday seeking redemption on two fronts — for the embarrassing loss in 2017 and last week’s defeat against Georgia that knocked the Gators out of SEC East contention. Mullen is trying to keep his players focused ahead of the matchup, which he previewed during the teleconference.

On his first season at Florida:

  • It’s still early, but overall, I think they have bought in. But there’s still a lot of football to be played.

On Mississippi State’s Nick Fitzgerald passing Tim Tebow’s rushing record:

  • I sent him a congratulatory text when that happened. I’m proud of him for accomplishing that.

On QB Feleipe Franks this season:

  • It’s our job to put him in a position to be successful on the field. He’s matured and understands the work that goes in. The more reps you get in the offense, the more experience you get. He is growing from week to week in his decision making. … It’s the why’s of what happens out there on the field.

On facing Missouri:

  • They have a quarterback that can throw to any spot on the field. They are very balanced. You try to take away one part of the field. They have had success against everyone they have played.