The Gators face a tough task this weekend, opening the Swamp for the first time this season, after being off for two weeks, and hosting SEC East rival Tennessee. After beating the Vols in each of his first two seasons, head coach Jim McElwain will attempt to avoid a two-game losing streak to Tennessee this weekend.

The biggest news McElwain revealed was that OC Doug Nussmeier will move to the box to call plays on gameday. He previously called the plays from the sideline.

McElwain was the third coach to speak during Wednesday’s SEC Coaches Teleconference.

Here’s a summary of what he had to say:

  • Our first thoughts are with the state of Florida and the families affected by the storm. I don’t know if you can get back to normal. Hopefully, the game brings a couple hours of enjoyment as they try to rebuild.
  • Did this experience last year help in prep for this year? Each event is unique. In this case, this particular storm did great damage to the whole state. This one has been devastating to everyone throughout. With that being said, I know our guys are excited to play after last week’s game was canceled.
  • Was there any thought to canceling the Tennessee game? I know our first responders have been in contact with the government and just seeing what the right thing is to do. I know there are a lot more people and a lot more things important than 3rd down and six. They got together and decided to play.
  • McElwain reveals Doug Nussemier will move back up to the box for the Tennessee
  • Concerned Feleipe Franks didn’t get another game of prep before Tennessee? We were looking forward to playing that (Northern Colorado) game. He has an opportunity this week. Our focus is to play a good game Saturday. It’s not about our opponent, it’s about us. No doubt it would have been good to get a game in but the circumstances are bigger than this game.
  • How do you go about choosing a special teams coach? Choosing one with experience and choosing one that has been in this league. In our case, every coach is still responsible for coaching individuals coaching on special teams.