Tramell Jones Jr. expected to start against Oklahoma

Florida sophomore quarterback Tramell Jones Jr. is expected to start against Oklahoma on Saturday, according to a Thursday report from Zach Abolverdi of On3 Florida. It would be Jones’ second start in three games.

Jones previously replaced junior Aaron Philo while Philo was sidelined by a shoulder injury. Philo returned against Georgia but completed 5 of 7 passes for 26 yards with two interceptions before Florida turned to Jones after three drives.

Jones finished the Georgia game 18 of 25 for 172 yards, with a rushing touchdown, an interception and a strip sack returned for a touchdown. Offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner said Florida needed a spark and believed Jones earned the chance to finish the game after putting together several drives.

Jones also led Florida back from a 14-point deficit in a 27-24 win at Texas, the program’s largest comeback against a ranked SEC opponent in a true road game. He completed 22 of 35 passes for 155 yards and two touchdowns without an interception, adding 41 rushing yards on 10 carries.

Florida coach Jon Sumrall said Jones settled into that game after a slow start and gained confidence following a fourth-and-12 completion to Dallas Wilson. Jones also went 5 for 5 for 86 yards and a touchdown during his lone series at Missouri, and he directed a late touchdown drive against South Carolina.

No. 24 Florida enters the Oklahoma matchup at 5-3 overall and 3-3 in SEC play, while the Sooners are 4-4 overall and 2-3 in the conference.

Why it matters

Jones has already directed Florida’s 14-point comeback at Texas and played most of the Georgia game. His expected start gives the Gators another extended look at the sophomore as they enter Saturday at 5-3 overall and 3-3 in SEC play.

What to watch next

Florida hosts Oklahoma on Saturday at 7:45 p.m. on SEC Network.