Muschamp has said that John Brantley is his guy. Brantley had the misfortune of replacing Tim Tebow last season and struggled. He became the first Florida quarterback since 1988 to lead the team in passing and throw more interceptions (10) than touchdowns (9). The thought was that working with new UF offensive coordinator and quarterbacks guru Charlie Weis would lead to a big season for Brantley. When he arrived in Gainesville, Fla., Weis said the No.1 thing Brantley needed to escape past failures was confidence. And he installed a pro-style offense that was supposed to be suited for Brantley. A former Gatorade Player of the Year in high school, Brantley never fit into Meyer’s spread offense.

But it’s hard to imagine Brantley has much confidence after going 4-for-14 for 45 yards in the Florida spring game a few weeks ago. He was on the field for just three of the Blue team’s points, starting the game 0 for 6 and not getting his first completion until the second quarter. Tyler Murphy (7 of 11 for 68 yards, one touchdown and one interception) and freshman Jeff Driskel (3 of 8 for 53 yards) weren’t a whole lot better.

Muschamp didn’t waver on his starter, saying ring Brantley was completing 70 percent of his passes in the 14 spring practices prior to the spring game: “If we started the season today, John Brantley would be our starter. He’s experienced, he’s got talent.”

However, Brantley could have to fend off top recruit Jacoby Brissett when fall camp arrives. Overall UF returns 13 starters (seven on offense, six on defense, no kickers), including pretty much every skill position player. But the offensive line lost four seniors. The Gators are 18/1 on Bodog’s NCAA football odds to win the national title this upcoming season and open on Sept. 3 against Florida Atlantic.

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