Cleveland at full speed for Gators

GAINESVILLE — UF receiver Tyrie Cleveland is back to his old self — explosive, dangerous for opponents and 100 percent healthy.

The sophomore spent the past month nursing a highankle sprain that sidelined him for one game and most of another one. It also limited him to one catch Saturday against Georgia and robbed the Gators’ passing game of its only viable deep threat.

But Cleveland enters Saturday’s visit to Missouri at full speed as the Gators look to end a three-game losing streak and finish strongly in the wake of coach Jim McElwain’s ouster.

“He’s bouncing around, didn’t miss a rep in practice [Tuesday]. We’re excited to have him back because we have a chance for us to throw some balls downfield and see if we can make some plays,” interim coach Randy Shannon said. “You have a chance to score some points because you’ve got a big-play receiver back that can run full speed and get after it. “It makes you feel good.” The Gators’ passing game is in dire need of a lift. Without Cleveland, UF totaled 273 passing yards, three interceptions and a 6-yard touchdown pass during the team’s three-game losing streak.

Cleveland was injured during UF’s Sept. 30 win against Vanderbilt. At the time, he led the Gators with 15 catches for 326 yards — an average of 21.3 yards a reception — and two touchdowns.

Next game: UF at Missouri, Saturday, noon, ESPN2

Edgar Thompson