Ricky Pearsall shares message for Max Brown ahead of Florida QB’s first start

Ricky Pearsall is looking to become Florida’s first 1,000-yard receiver in over 20 years. The final 52 yards, though, will have to come from Max Brown with Graham Mertz out for the rest of the year.

Brown, a redshirt freshman, will be making his first start of his career against an undefeated Florida State team contending for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Pearsall told reporters Monday that he reminded Brown if he isn’t sure where to go with the ball, he can always look for No. 1.

Brown was 4-of-5 passing for 56 in relief against Mizzou. He connected with Pearsall once for a 7-yard gain.

#Gators WR Ricky Pearsall had some advice for redshirt freshman QB Max Brown in preparation for his first career start on Saturday against Florida State.

“I woke up this morning and texted him: 1 is always open.”

— Brandon Carroll (@itsbcarroll) November 20, 2023

It’s fair to say Pearsall hasn’t had trouble getting open this season. The fifth-year transfer from Arizona State is having a career year. He leads all Florida receivers with 64 catches for 948 yards.

Pearsall has the chance to join an exclusive club. Taylor Jacobs was Florida’s last 1,000-yard receiver, logging 1,088 receiving yards in 2002.

Andrew Olson

Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.