Florida turns to Tramell Jones Jr. for first start against Texas

Florida sophomore Tramell Jones Jr. is set to make his first career start at quarterback against Texas in Austin on Saturday, Oct. 17, after Aaron Philo was sidelined by a shoulder injury. The Gainesville Sun and CBS Sports separately reported the change, which puts a player with limited college experience in charge of Florida's offense for the road game.

How Florida's quarterback plans changed

Florida's quarterback situation was unsettled earlier in the week: Philo's availability was uncertain, and Jones was a possible first-time starter. The new reports establish Jones as the planned starter, a change from the outlook in NewsJaws' earlier coverage of Philo's status. CBS Sports reported that Philo hurt his shoulder during Florida's 38-19 loss to South Carolina the previous week. The Gainesville Sun reported that he would miss the Texas matchup.

Jones's preparation for his first start

CBS Sports reported that Jones took first-team practice repetitions during the week as Florida prepared for the possibility that Philo could not play. Coach Jon Sumrall said Jones was working hard and would be ready when called upon, CBS Sports reported, citing 247Sports. That preparation now leads to Jones's first start against a ranked Texas team on its home field.

After losing the preseason competition for the job, Jones told The Gainesville Sun he had chosen to keep competing and developing in the offense. His opportunity comes earlier than planned because of Philo's injury. The reports establish Florida's intended quarterback for Saturday's game; they do not establish a return date for Philo.