Although not usually the best athletes on a team, college football fans know the importance of a good special-teams unit. A good kicker could be the difference between a playoff berth for the Gators and a subpar season. Luckily, the Gators should not have too many worries in this department. Returning the majority of their special teams production, they have the ultimate trust in this unit. After a tough schedule last season, this year does not get any easier. Each game will be a battle, and the finest of lines will decide the winner. This is where special teams come into play. Down the stretch, coaches and fans want to be confident in their kickers. Although a bit shaky at times, the Gators’ field goal unit was dependable down the stretch. If Florida wants to compete for a playoff spot, the special teams may be the difference maker.
Dependable Special Teams?
Veteran Kicker
Rated as a 5-star kicker coming out of high school, Trey Smack has had an admirable career in Gainesville. Now entering his senior year, he has SEC experience under his belt. Moving into the starting kicker role in 2023, he has proved himself despite early struggles. Converting all his extra points last season, the Gators know he is automatic in this regard. In the field goal kicking department, he went a respectable 18 for 21 with a long of 55 yards. Ending the season on a high note, he converted all three field goals in the bowl game. A valued member of this team, he has shown he can be counted on. If Florida wants to reach the upper status of the SEC, it will have to be at its best. In tight games, the true difference maker for the Gators will be Trey Smack.
Transfer Punter
After a stellar career in Gainesville, punter Jeremy Crawshaw left for the NFL, eventually being drafted in the sixth round. Turning to the transfer portal to find his replacement, the Gators landed on redshirt senior Tommy Doman. Spending his last four years at Michigan, he earned various All-Big 10 honors. Averaging 42.6 yards per punt, it is clear that the Gators view him as a potential weapon. Doman landed 15 of his punts inside the 20-yard line and forced 22 fair catches. Although offenses never want to punt the football, it is an important aspect of a team’s success. If Doman can help flip the field, then he can be a valued member of this football team. Already proving himself at the Power Four level, he shouldn’t be intimidated by the bright lights. As long as he avoids any crucial errors, he should be an important contributor.
Replacing Returners?
Last season, one of the bright spots in the special teams department was the punt return unit. Specifically, receiver Chimere Dike routinely flipped the field with his returns. Now off to the NFL, the Gators will be looking at the next man up. Holding an open competition, the team is working with a variety of players. With most signs pointing towards Tank Hawkins or possibly even Tre Wilson, the Gators should not be too worried. A speedster, Hawkins competed on the IMG track and field team. Regarded as one of the fastest players on this roster, he could slot in nicely as the new punt returner. At kickoff return, the Gators return Jadan Baugh as one of the primary options. Look for another young player to make their mark opposite him on this unit. If Hawkins can replicate Dike’s shiftiness, this unit should be just fine.
Best in the Country?
Often not mentioned when discussing special teams’ units, the long snapper plays an important role. Extra points and field goals would not be possible without an accurate snap. Luckily for the Gators, they have a real difference-maker at this position. Rocco Underwood took home the Mannelly Award this past season. This award, given to the best long snapper in the country, highlighted Underwood’s importance to this team. Always up to the task, he is as steady as they come at his position. The Gators never have to worry about the accuracy of their snaps when they send out the field goal unit.
Final Thoughts
Finishing up the position reviews for this season, the special teams should be the least of the Gators’ worries. With proven veterans littered throughout these units, Florida is in good hands. This season is pivotal for head coach Billy Napier, as his long-term plan is beginning to take shape. Finally winning some important games last season, the Gators are riding high on momentum. With another challenging schedule, however, the Gators simply cannot afford to get too confident. Anything less than eight wins, and fans could see Napier relieved of his duties. With a talented quarterback and steady skill position groups, this offense must perform. No more emphasizing the screen game or trying to get too fancy on crucial downs. This team is built to win now, and it is up to Napier and the rest of this team to make sure that happens.
Main Photo: Doug Engle/Gainesville Sun
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