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Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson: ‘I’m a Gator.’

The redshirt freshman’s long-term future has been a major topic of conversation around Florida.
 
Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson helped the Gators beat Florida State on Saturday.
Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson helped the Gators beat Florida State on Saturday. [ JOHN RAOUX | Associated Press ]
Published Nov. 27, 2021|Updated Nov. 27, 2021

GAINESVILLE — Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson’s future has been a hot topic around the Gators because of his sky-high potential and the fact that he has spent most of this season backing up Emory Jones. Richardson was asked about his future after Saturday’s win over Florida State.

“Yeah, I’m a Gator,” Richardson said.

Does this mean Richardson will be at UF next season?

“I’m a Gator,” he repeated.

Related: Florida Gators hold on, beat FSU as new coach hire looms

Richardson said he’s going to work hard, regardless of what coach replaces Dan Mullen.

“I was a little surprised when it happened,” Richardson said in his first interview since Mullen was fired. “That was my head coach who recruited me. I really loved that guy. But at the end of the day, you’ve got to realize it’s a business. So they had to make a decision and we have to live with that....

“Whoever they bring in, we’re just going to grind and get better.”

Richardson, a Gainesville native and redshirt freshman, tweaked his knee on UF’s third offensive snap of the game but was cleared to return in the second half. He took control of the game after Jones threw a pass that hit a Florida State defender in the back. Richardson led UF on scoring drives on three of his next four possessions, including a touchdown pass to Justin Shorter.

Richardson finished 5 of 7 passing for 55 yards and that touchdown. He also rushed 11 times for 27 yards. He finished his first season with meaningful snaps with five touchdown passes and five interceptions. He also rushed for 374 yards and three touchdowns.

“You can always count on him,” tight end Kemore Gamble said. “Even though he’s young, he’s still a leader on our team. He’s got a bright future ahead of him.”

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