Florida Gators viewed among most compelling teams in college football
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As optimism inflates the heads of Gator fans around the country, Florida was cited among programs poised to outperform preseason projections. The sentiment around the Gators has quickly shifted from rebuild to potential dark horse.
The Gators were highlighted as a program capable of exceeding expectations. CBS Sports college football writer Tom Fornelli included Florida among five teams he "can't quit" going into the 2026 season, with a College Football Playoff appearance within reach for Jon Sumrall and company.
"How high am I on the Florida Gators? Well, current win totals have the Gators pegged at 7.5 right now, but when I look at this team, I don't just see a squad that can get to 8-4. I see a team that could reach the College Football Playoff," Fornelli says of the Gators' potential.
Florida has overhauled its roster with over 50 new additions, changed its identity on offense and defense with two new lead coordinators and returning stars.
"This is a talented team that made what I consider a massive upgrade to its coaching staff over the offseason. Jon Sumrall wasn't the first choice of many Gators fans, but he was a good one," he further explains.
"Sumrall also hired one of my favorite offensive coordinators, Buster Faulkner. Faulkner's offenses at Georgia Tech weren't just fun to watch; they were effective. That was a big reason why the Yellow Jackets went 16-8 in ACC play."
Fornelli goes on to say, "Faulkner also brings Aaron Philo from Tech to play QB for the Gators. Philo doesn't have a ton of experience, but he's talented and is as familiar with the offense as Faulkner is with him."
Florida's turnaround will be fueled by an elite skill position group, including returners and All-SEC selections running back Jadan Baugh along with wide receiver Vernell Brown III. Newcomers set to drive the resurgence are Georgia Tech transfer quarterback Aaron Philo and Auburn transfer wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr.
"Finally, all things considered, Florida's schedule isn't as bad as it could be. Frankly, when considering most SEC schedules, I'd argue it's one of the more manageable slates in the league. I fully expect the Gators to get off to a great start in the Sumrall era and be in the playoff conversation into November."
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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida football primed to exceed expectations in 2026 says CBS Sports
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