Not that it matters much given the opponent, but Florida will be a bit shorthanded when it opens up the 2018 season.
In a news release about an hour before kickoff, Florida announced that seven players have been suspended for tonight’s opener against FCS Charleston Southern -- defensive tackle Luke Ancrum, defensive tackle Kyree Campbell, cornerback Brian Edwards, defensive end CeCe Jefferson, running back Adarius Lemons, wide receiver Kadarius Toney (pictured) and offensive lineman James Washington.
The suspensions of Campbell and Toney aren’t surprising as they were involved in a bizarre offseason incident involving airsoft guns, a frying pan, a baseball bat, rocks and a gambler nicknamed Tay Bang. Five other Gators connected to that incident -- wide receivers Tyrie Cleveland and Rick Wells, quarterback Emory Jones and tight ends C’yonta Lewis and Kemore Gamble -- avoided suspensions.
Jefferson’s suspension is for academic reasons, the Orlando Sentinel reported. It’s unclear what exactly the other four players did to earn their respective suspensions.
Toney’s 15 catches for 152 yards were both fourth on the team, while Jefferson led the team in sacks last season with 4½. Campbell played in nine games during the 2017 season.
