The Athletic picks pair of X-factor players for Florida football this fall

The Florida football program has a challenging season ahead of it, facing one of the toughest schedules in the sport this fall. The Gators will require some outstanding play from its cornerstone pieces if they want to earn a bowl game bid this coming winter.

The Athletic’s college football staff put together a list of X-factor players for all 16 Southeastern Conference teams, with two names coming up for the Orange and Blue.

“There are more questions about Florida on defense than offense, so for the Gators to be successful this year, they may need to win some shootouts,” Seth Emerson begins.

“Quarterback Graham Mertz can do that if he has help, and wideout Eugene Wilson III could emerge as a potent weapon. As a freshman, he had 61 catches for 538 yards and six touchdowns. He was a four-star recruit who has speed and dynamic ability, and he can make the Gators offense a tough out.”

Florida’s 2024 season opener

The Florida and the Miami Hurricanes open their schedule on Aug. 31 in Gainesville, Florida. Kickoff time is slated for 3:30 p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast on ABC Sports.

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