GAINESVILLE - Joey Ijjas has gone from walkon to vying for a job as the Gators' starting kicker.

Ijjas, the former Clearwater Central Catholic kicker, is among those trying to replace Chris Hetland.

Ijjas is right on (Jonathan) Phillips' tail,'' UF coach Urban Meyer said. "I can't tell you who would start if we started tomorrow. I'd say it's pretty close to even, but probably Ijjas has a little bit of and edge.''

Ijjas played in 12 games last season, starting two. He was the Gators' primary kickoff specialist. He joined the team last season after transferring from East Carolina.