Florida Turns Back to Aaron Philo at Quarterback

Florida is turning to Aaron Philo to start at quarterback against Kentucky on November 14. The decision comes after Tramell Jones Jr. started last week’s 23-7 loss to Oklahoma, in which Florida scored just seven points. The Gators enter the road game with a 5-4 record; Kentucky is 7-2 and ranked No. 11.

Against Oklahoma, Jones connected on 10 throws in 22 attempts, gaining 133 yards and giving up the ball twice on interceptions. Philo played one snap, taking a handoff. The move marks another change in a season that has seen the two quarterbacks trade opportunities.

Philo began the season as Florida’s starter, then was sidelined by a shoulder problem when the Gators faced Texas. Jones took over and helped the Gators beat Texas 27-24. Philo later returned against Georgia but was replaced by Jones after throwing two interceptions in a 27-8 defeat. Philo has completed 70.5% of his passes this season for 1,367 yards, nine touchdowns and five interceptions.

Coach Jon Sumrall said both quarterbacks had shown strengths and weaknesses, and that Florida had not played well enough at quarterback against Oklahoma. Jones is also managing an undisclosed injury that Sumrall said might require offseason surgery, though Jones said it was not limiting him. Florida’s kickoff at Kentucky is scheduled for 6:15 p.m., with the game airing on ESPN.