Tampabay.com
OCTOBER 21, 2009

Gators searching for ways to get Emmanuel Moody more involved

Florida offensive coordinator Steve Addazio said despite what it appears, the Gators are trying to find ways to get RB Emmanuel Moody more involved in the Gators' offense.

Moody had just three carries for seven yards in last week's 23-20 win over Arkansas, but Addazio said it's not a lack of confidence in Moody. It's just not that easy with so many good running backs.

"There's not like there's any decision or any action to hold him back at all right now,'' Addazio said. "You know what the problem is? We've got three really talented backs and it's hard to get them all touches. And then when you get them all touches, people are going to be saying you're not throwing it. Those are three talented backs, and every time they catch the ball any one of them can go. When that freaky way they kicked the ball out of Chris' (Rainey) arms (a fumble on Saturday), he was about ready to go. If he hadn't tripped, he might have gone 80 (yards). And Demps, are you kidding me? One of the fastest guys in college football. And Moody is so darn powerful and quick. But again, you've got to get touches for those guys to showcase them, but in the same breath we've got a great quarterback who can throw, and the vertical stretch with (Riley) Cooper and Deonte (Thompson). So that's the tender mix right there, that everyone is so anxiously watching all the time, that mix and that blend. I'm with you, but it's hard to get them all in. We're very fortunate to have three very talented backs right now.''

Moody has played in all six games this season, and averages 8.8 yards per carry - 237 yards on 27 attempts.

Moody, for now, seems content with his limited role, just thankful that he's been able to overcome numerous injuries.

"It feels good to be 100 percent right now,'' Moody said. "It feels good just contributing this year. Last year I didn't feel like I was really making a contribution, but this year I feel more confident in what I'm doing. It feels great to contribute.''

 

Join the discussion: Click to view comments, add yours

About the blogger

Florida Gators fans, welcome to the Gator Report for all your news about Gators football, basketball and all UF sports. It's written by University of Florida beat writer Antonya English and the staff of the Tampa Bay Times. We invite your comments and participation.

E-mail Antonya English:
english@tampabay.com

Advertisement

Follow us on Facebook

TampaBay.com on Facebook

Registration FAQ

Read our Frequently Asked Questions on how to register to comment on the site.