Florida rules Vernell Brown III out against Oklahoma

Florida ruled junior wide receiver Vernell Brown III out with a knee injury Friday, while defensive end Emmanuel Oyebadejo and wide receiver Bailey Stockton were upgraded to probable for Saturday’s game against Oklahoma. The No. 24 Gators enter the 7:45 p.m. SEC Network matchup at 5-3 overall and 3-3 in SEC play.

Starting defensive lineman Jeramiah McCloud also will not play after Florida suspended him for conduct detrimental to the team. The school said McCloud’s status with the program will be reviewed after the Oklahoma game. He has 22 tackles and half a sack.

Florida’s other unavailable players are starting sophomore right tackle Emeka Ugorji, senior linebacker Jaden Robinson and senior tight end Evan Chieca. Oyebadejo and Stockton are listed as probable, which the SEC designation defines as a 75% chance to play.

Oklahoma listed 12 players on its Friday report, with eight ruled out. Defensive back Peyton Bowen is questionable, offensive lineman Eddy Pierre-Louis is doubtful, and defensive lineman Kenny Ozowalu and wide receiver Elijah Thomas are probable. Offensive lineman Jake Maikkula was cleared after previously being probable, while wide receiver Jer’Michael Carter, defensive back Eli Bowen and tight end Rocky Beers were cleared after previously being questionable.

Why it matters

Florida will be without five players, including starters Jeramiah McCloud and Emeka Ugorji. Oklahoma has eight players ruled out, leaving both teams with lineup concerns before an SEC game between the 5-3 Gators and 4-4 Sooners.

What to watch next

The fourth and final availability report will be released before Florida and Oklahoma play Saturday at 7:45 p.m. on SEC Network.