Jim McElwain discusses starting QB Luke Del Rio during Friday’s press conference
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Florida coach Jim McElwain officially named redshirt sophomore Luke Del Rio as the starting quarterback Thursday.
“Luke is going to work as the starter the rest of camp and start in the season opener barring any unforeseen development,” McElwain said in a statement. “Our other quarterbacks remain in the plans and are ready to move forward and help the Gators any way they can.”
Here’s what the second-year coach had to say about the decision in further detail during Friday’s press conference:
McElwain on QB decision: "We felt it was time." Said expectation is for all 4 QBs to continue to work.
— Ian Cohen (@icohenb) August 19, 2016
Mac said he sought consistency, how players responded to QB before making a final decision on Luke Del Rio. 'Has great command,' Mac said.
— Edgar Thompson (@osgators) August 19, 2016
Mac cont. on Luke: "There's constant competition going on. …. He's done a heck of a job. I'm excited to roll him out there." #Gators
— Jordan McPherson (@J_McPherson1126) August 19, 2016
Asked how Del Rio handles reading defenses, making decisions, Mac said, with a laugh, 'I hope it's really good.'
— Edgar Thompson (@osgators) August 19, 2016
Mac said Del Rio was 'excited' to hear he was the starter, but did not act like he had 'made it,' either.
— Edgar Thompson (@osgators) August 19, 2016
Mac says this evening's scrimmage will be at night. First one was in the heat of the afternoon. #Gators simulating various kickoffs
— Andy Olson (@ByAndrewOlson) August 19, 2016
Mac on naming Luke Del Rio starting QB: Going into this scrimmage we felt it was time to make this move. #Gators
— Andy Olson (@ByAndrewOlson) August 19, 2016
Del Rio transferred to Florida from Oregon State following the 2014 season but had to sit last season out due to NCAA transfer rules. The Gators will host UMass in the regular season opener on Sept. 3.
Tyler Waddell is a member of the Saturday Down South news team. He brings over five years of professional journalism experience and is closing in on a Bachelor's in sports management. Follow him on Twitter (@Tyler_Waddell).
