QB Franks in line for another start

GAINESVILLE — UF redshirt freshman Feleipe Franks is in line for yet another shot as the Gators’ starting quarterback.

UF interim coach Randy Shannon said Monday he expects Franks to start during Saturday’s visit from UAB as Malik Zaire recovers from a left knee injury.

“Whenever we feel like Malik is ready, he’ll be ready,” Shannon said. “If not, Feleipe is going to be the guy. Right at this point in time, if we played a game, Feleipe would be the guy. That’s what we have to go with today.”

Franks opened the season under center and has started six times. But he lost the job both to Luke Del Rio and Zaire, only to get it back after each was injured.

Franks has five touchdowns and five interceptions, and has been sacked 22 times in nine games this season. Following last weekend’s loss at South Carolina, though, the 19-year-old said he is getting “a little more comfortable.”

Franks replaced Zaire during the second quarter of the 28-20 loss at South Carolina. At one point the Gators trailed 21-6, but Franks led them to two touchdowns. He finished 10-of-25 passing for 174 yards.

Shannon said receiver Dre Massey would be Franks’ back-up. A high school quarterback, Massey has handled snaps recently during practice.

Shannon also confirmed center T.J. McCoy’s season is over after he sustained an injury to his left foot at South Carolina. Junior Tyler Jordan will replace McCoy and make his second career start at center.

Next game: UF vs. UAB, Saturday, 4 p.m., SEC Network

Edgar Thompson