Gator Tales with Sean Kelley

The Gators run of three straight home games under the lights of The Swamp to open the season came to an end last weekend, but the win over USF was more survival than statement. On today’s show, host Adam Schick fires up the roundtable with FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry and “The Voice of the Gators” Sean Kelley to discuss takeaways from the second victory of the season, the hurdles facing quarterback Anthony Richardson, the importance of linebacker Ventrell Miller to the defense, the challenges presented by a hungry and potent Tennessee offense, a major upset on the road for volleyball and the upcoming changes coming to MLB in the PAT (1:50). Then, Louisiana transfer and offensive lineman O’Cyrus Torrence joins the show to share why he followed Billy Napier to become a Gator, bringing some Cajun spice to Gainesville and much more (25:52). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

While the Florida/Kentucky series was a one-sided affair for three decades, the Wildcats have turned into an unlikely rival on the gridiron in recent years, with last weekend’s win their third in the last five meetings. Now the Gators are looking to regroup against an in-state foe that aspires to become a rival in the form of USF. On today’s show, host Adam Schick convenes a roundtable chat with FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry and “The Voice of the Gators” Sean Kelley to talk takeaways from Kentucky, Anthony Richardson’s trajectory, how the team is responding to early adversity, the strength of the defensive line, expectations against the Bulls and awkward athlete returns in the PAT (1:54). Then, offensive lineman Richard Gouraige joins the show to discuss his Haitian heritage, the impact of having two offensive line coaches and much more (32:09). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

The Gators exploded onto the scene and into the polls in Week One, upsetting 7th ranked Utah and putting the nation on notice in Billy Napier’s first game on the job. But another tricky test awaits this weekend, with hopes the sequel is even better than the original on Saturday night in The Swamp against Kentucky. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes “The Voice of the Gators” Sean Kelley and FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to talk takeaways from the victory, areas for improvement, the legend of Anthony Richardson, the challenges presented by a solid Wildcats squad and the newly announced College Football Playoff format in the PAT (1:53). Then, Arizona State transfer Ricky Pearsall joins the show to discuss how an Arizona kid ended up in Gainesville, carrying on his dad’s legacy at wide receiver and much more (32:28). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

After months of anticipation, the Billy Napier era officially begins this weekend in The Swamp, with one of the highest-profile opening games in school history against reigning PAC-12 champ Utah. On today’s show, host Adam Schick discusses the numerous storylines swirling around this game, this team and this new coaching staff with FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry and the new “Voice of the Gators” Sean Kelley (1:48). Then, super senior linebacker Amari Burney stops by for a chat about being the first college graduate in his family and why he came back for one last ride (37:39). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

In the final episode of the summer, host Adam Schick sits down for an exclusive interview with new football coach Billy Napier. The wide-ranging chat covers his upbringing in Georgia, how football ruled the roost in his family, when his dad gave him the coaching bug, what he learned from his time at Clemson and Alabama, the role of NIL in college football, his big-picture plan to turn around the Gators and much more. Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

On this special summer episode, host Adam Schick welcomes new basketball coach Todd Golden for an exclusive conversation. The chat dives into his early roots, why he developed a love for basketball, how the game took him across the globe, his unlikely path to coaching, how advanced analytics will shape the program going forward, how NIL will factor into the student-athlete experience, embracing the expectations in Gainesville and much more. Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

In his annual end-of-year conversation with host Adam Schick, athletic director Scott Stricklin covers the men’s and women’s track national titles, the work being done under new coaches to build football, men’s and women’s basketball and soccer, his favorite moments from this season, the imminent opening of the Heavener Football Training Center, the status of the long-planned rejuvenation of The Swamp, how the entire program is adjusting to the rapidly changing world of NIL deals, where he sees the SEC landing when it comes to football scheduling and opponents, the unknown future of the College Football Playoff and more. Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

After roller coaster seasons, both baseball and softball came to an end in the last week, with softball bowing out of the Women’s College World Series and baseball exiting its hard-fought, weather-delayed regional. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry for the final roundtable of the season, discussing the last stands for softball and baseball and the enduring stories from this athletic year (1:31). Then, the now-retired “Voice of the Gators” Mick Hubert joins us to share why the time was right to step away, the evolution of sports broadcasting since his debut and what he hopes to do moving forward (26:54). For more on Mick’s favorite moments and memories, scroll back in your feed and listen to Gator Tales #176 – 30 Years with Mick Hubert. Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

As the calendar turns to June, there are only two Florida teams still competing, and while there were some doubts throughout the spring they would make it this far, both baseball and softball have proven that success in their marathon sports isn’t about how you start, but the way you finish. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss softball’s return to Oklahoma City, baseball’s unlikely path to hosting a regional, Ben Shelton’s championship run in the men’s tennis singles competition, revelations from the SEC meetings in Destin and our favorite action movies in the PAT (1:41). Then, new soccer coach Samantha Bohon shares her coaching philosophy, her path to leading the Gators and why it’s the only job that could have lured her away from her longtime post at Embry-Riddle (24:52). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Gator Tales #313: BB’s BT Riopelle and Gator Roundtable (SB, BB, MTN, LAX, FB, MBK) by Florida Gators

If you assumed the athletic season was going to start quietly winding down by mid-May, think again, as this past week was loaded with significant developments on and off the field. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the unexpected retirement of “The Voice of the Gators” Mick Hubert, a new leader for Florida soccer, men’s tennis rolling into the Elite Eight, softball’s upcoming NCAA regional, lacrosse facing an uphill climb to return to the Final Four, baseball’s hot bats, a key transfer for men’s basketball and the skyrocketing market for NFL color commentators in the PAT (1:47) Then, speed skater and Olympic gold medalist Erin Jackson shares how she went from being a bookworm in her time as a student at UF to a breakout international star on the ice (33:04). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

The postseason feel is definitely in the air for the Gators, especially in Gainesville, where both tennis teams hosted NCAA action this past weekend and softball is currently home to the SEC Tournament for the first time since 2005. On today’s show, host Adam Schick chats with FloridaGators.com senior writer Scott Carter about how things shook out for the Gators in the aftermath of the NFL Draft, baseball’s road surge, a twin killing for the tennis teams, another conference title for lacrosse and the future of umpires in the PAT (1:35). Then, softball’s resident ace Elizabeth Hightower stops by to share what it was like growing up in a small town without a single traffic light and how she developed a passion for the art of pitching (23:07). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

No matter the sport, we often measure athletes and coaches by milestones, and for softball coach Tim Walton, this week saw a big one added to his resume. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss 1,000 wins for Walton, tough luck for baseball and Hunter Barco, Keyontae Johnson’s surprising entry to the transfer portal, the start of the repeat campaign for men’s tennis and memorable shocking moments in TV and movies in the PAT (1:36). Then, men’s tennis mainstay and Portugal native Duarte Vale shares why he chose tennis over soccer, how he ended up so far from home and the plan to bring another title to Gainesville (27:25). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

While it has flown mostly under the radar and doesn’t feature a Gator hovering near the top of the board like we saw in 2021, the NFL Draft hits Las Vegas this week, with Kaiir Elam hoping to give Florida a first round selection for the eighth time in nine years. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writer Scott Carter to discuss Florida’s draft prospects, a new direction for the soccer program, the continued dominance of men’s tennis, baseball’s growing pains and the perils of ring chasing in the PAT (1:36). Then, you’ll hear part two of our extended conversation with Katie Turner, as the assistant AD for recruiting strategy details the plan for Billy Napier to turn around the Gators’ operation (25:38). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Spring football came to a close last week, with the Orange & Blue Game putting a coda on Billy Napier’s first offseason leading the Gators. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss takeaways from the well-attended scrimmage, Anthony Richardson under the spotlight, more transfer portal action for men’s basketball, gymnastics nearly claiming another national title and stinging sports gut punches in the PAT (1:32). Then, football’s head of recruiting strategy Katie Turner shares her fascinating backstory and how it led her to become an assistant athletic director in the SEC at just 27 years old (29:36). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

It certainly isn’t the same as running out of the tunnel in the fall, but Billy Napier is leading the Gators onto the field for the first time on Thursday night for a highly anticipated Orange & Blue Game. On today’s show, host Adam Schick takes a deep dive into one of the innovative new ways football is expanding the scope of what it means to be a Gator by talking to Savannah Bailey about the GatorMade program (1:54). Then, FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry discuss spring game storylines, Colin Castleton’s surprising return for basketball, gymnastics heading to the NCAA championships, baseball’s resurgence against the Hogs, the largest gift in the history of Gator Boosters and ideas for fixing the transfer portal in the PAT (29:20). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

It may not be obvious on the surface, but there was a championship theme connecting the Gators this week, as football continued building a championship mentality on the practice fields, gymnastics took the first step toward its championship hopes and men’s basketball welcomed back a key piece of its championship DNA. On today’s show, host Adam Schick is joined by FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the last full week of spring football practice, men’s basketball’s latest player/staff moves under Todd Golden, the record-setting performance from gymnastics at NCAA regionals, a tough stretch for baseball and the best storybook sports endings in the PAT (1:46). Then, two-time Olympic gold medalist and recently crowned NCAA champion Bobby Finke shares how he was molded into a word-class swimmer nearly from birth, where he keeps his medals and much more (31:30). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Although spring technically started a couple weeks ago, when it comes to Gator athletics, the arrival of April is a clearer indicator of where we are on the athletic calendar and what sports are rising to the surface. On this week’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss how former Gators performed for scouts on Pro Day, the latest headlines from spring practice, basketball’s rapidly growing staff under Todd Golden, the start of gymnastics’ national title pursuit, Bobby Finke’s dominant showing at the NCAA swimming championships, baseball’s rebound against FSU and the fallout from the “slap heard ‘round the world” in the PAT (1:44). Then, Adam meets gymnast Leah Clapper and discovers how her exploits in the NIL space are arguably even more impressive than her many accomplishments in competition (28:56). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

A new era for Florida basketball began this week, as Scott Stricklin quickly narrowed in on upstart University of San Francisco coach Todd Golden to take over the men’s program and bring it back to prominence. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to do a deep dive on the new hire, sort through some significant stories from week one of spring football practice, discuss the latest heights for gymnastics, and in recognition of the Oscars, we’ll explore our favorite underrated movies in the PAT (1:32). Plus, Adam catches up with basketball “Gator Great” and fan favorite, Will Yeguete (29:52). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

When we talk about March Madness, we are generally referring to the games themselves. But as the college basketball world discovered this week, that can also extend off the court. On today’s show, host Adam Schick is joined by FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss Mike White’s stunning exit from Gainesville, the start of a men’s basketball coaching search, women’s hoops preparing for the NCAA Tournament, a national title for the women’s track and field program and how to properly balance emotion and analytics in sports in the PAT (1:39). Then, newly minted national champion and NCAA 60-meter hurdle record holder Grace Stark stops by to talk about her blazing performance and how Grant Holloway has served as a critical mentor (34:33). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

The gold standard for Florida basketball in the last two decades is obviously the “Oh-Fours” and the back-to-back titles they delivered. But on the next rung below that era, you’re sure to find the core that led UF to the “Elite Eight” in four consecutive years, eventually breaking through to the Final Four in 2014. That group was unquestionably led by Patric Young, who came to Gainesville as a decorated McDonald’s All-American and breathed new life and passion into the program after the dip that followed the 2006-07 glory. In a conversation that took place just before he assumed his new role with the SEC Network, Patrick took host Adam Schick on a journey spanning from Jacksonville to Greece and beyond.

In case you failed to check your calendar in the last few days, it’s already March, which means everyone is talking about resumes and thinking about brackets. On today’s show, we’ll welcome FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss men’s basketball’s rescue at Vanderbilt and the critical finale with Kentucky, Kelly Rae Finley’s newly minted status as head coach of the women, a spectacular showing for gymnastics on senior night and true life tales Hollywood needs to produce in the PAT (1:33). Then, women’s basketball’s All-SEC First Team star Kiki Smith shares her story and sheds light on how this remarkable season has come to pass (25:13). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

This is a milestone episode of the official podcast of the Gators, but given how many events are packed into the current calendar, there is hardly time to reflect on how we got to 300 shows, but whether this is your first time downloading an episode or you were with us when we launched in August 2015, we are glad you are here! On today’s show, host Adam Schick is joined by FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss the thin margin of error for men’s basketball’s tournament hopes, continued respect and accolades for women’s hoops, a tough opening weekend for baseball, SEC championships delivered by men’s swimming and gymnastics, and appropriate punishments for sports crimes in the PAT (1:44). Then, we’ll get to know another one of men’s basketball’s bevy of transfers and one of the most unique names you’ll ever meet in Phlandrous Fleming (27:19). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

While it’s still technically winter, it certainly starts to feel like spring with weekends like the one upcoming in Gainesville, when both basketball squads, baseball, softball and lacrosse are all in action on campus at the same time. On today’s show, host Adam Schick is joined by FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss men’s basketball on the wrong side of the bubble, the new frontrunning status enjoyed by women’s hoops, the youngest baseball team on record, softball’s slugging start and a wide-ranging chat about the controversies ensnaring the Olympics in the PAT (1:41). Then, Jeff Cardozo catches up with head coach Kevin O’Sullivan to preview a baseball season filled with both promise and an incredible amount of youth (26:25). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

The athletic calendar starts filling up quickly in mid-February, with the contrast of new campaigns for softball and baseball opening at the same time the stretch runs for basketball begin. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss men’s basketball skating on the bubble, women’s basketball’s most impressive week yet, a landmark NIL deal for the Gators and if Tom Brady belongs on the all-time “Mount Rushmore of Sports” in the PAT (1:35). Then, softball coach Tim Walton stops by to preview the 2022 season and reveal the new tricks he’s added to his coaching repertoire in the offseason (28:57). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

While the early signing period has taken many of the top prizes off the board, National Signing Day is still a big deal and a natural way to mark the arrival of February on the calendar. On today’s show, host Adam Schick is joined by FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss how Billy Napier closed his first class, the players expected to fill the most urgent needs, men’s basketball’s battles from behind and the worst team names in sports in the PAT (1:34). Then, we’ll get to know basketball big man Jason Jitoboh, including his incredibly unique journey across multiple continents to become a Gator (29:20). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Part of what makes Florida the “everything school” is consistent success across all sports over many years, and almost every program on campus has enjoyed multiple runs of glory in the last 30 years. The one team still battling to stake its claim is women’s basketball, and despite the incredible adversity they’ve faced throughout the last seven months, they have become one of the most surprising stories of the year. On today’s show, host Adam Schick is joined by FloridaGators.com senior writer Scott Carter to discuss his trip to Billy Napier’s hometown, the surging strength and remarkable resiliency of the women’s basketball team, the former Gators grabbing national headlines in the NFL playoffs and the raging debate over overtime rules in the PAT (1:53). Then, women’s basketball interim head coach Kelly Rae Finley stops by to share her coaching journey and how she has guided the program to success under enormously difficult circumstances (26:35). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Mike White’s team entered this week badly needing to get off the deck in the SEC, and they did just that, getting their first conference win at South Carolina, then returning home and completing a double-digit comeback against Mississippi State. On today’s show, we’ll welcome FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss men’s basketball’s big week, “Phase One” getting underway for football, a historic meet for gymnastics, women’s basketball’s continued resiliency and the often surprising impact of celebrity deaths in the PAT (1:43). Then, men’s basketball assistant coach Erik Pastrana joins us to share how a kid from Miami found his calling in coaching and the path he hopes to pave for more Latino representation on the sidelines (34:12). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Gator Tales #294: Gator Roundtable (MBK, FB, WBK) and Gym’s Megan Skaggs by Florida Gators

A new year brings new possibilities and opportunities, but unfortunately, the arrival of 2022 didn’t spell the end of COVID-19, as the virus continues to have an impact on every aspect of society – college sports included. After protocols postponed last week’s SEC opener for men’s basketball, Mike White’s team returned to the court on Wednesday after an unexpected two-week hiatus. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Chris Harry and Scott Carter to discuss basketball’s outing against Alabama, the latest twists and turns of the transfer portal, sky-high expectations for the start of gymnastics and the strangest sports stories they’ve ever covered in the PAT (1:48). Then, senior guard Myreon Jones drops by to talk about transitioning from Penn State to UF, the chemistry of “Team Transfer” and why he started his own podcast (35:26). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

While so much of the recent discussion around the football program has been centered on the future and the massive staff Billy Napier is assembling, there was one more game for the 2021 Gators to complete before fully entering the transition. On our final show of 2021, host Adam Schick is joined by FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the Gasparilla Bowl, how Billy Napier’s growing operation is expected to function, the COVID spike’s impact on both basketball programs and John Madden’s legacy in the PAT (1:38). Then, senior running back Dameon Pierce stops by to reflect on his amazing career and the memories and impact made along the way (35:49). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

There are few events in college football met with more intrigue than a coaching search. While following the carrousel has always been a whirlwind, the age of social media and easily accessible flight trackers have only upped the ante for fans looking for the inside scoop. But amidst all the chaos, only one person truly knows the inner workings of the process, and that’s the individual running it – in this case, athletic director Scott Stricklin. On this special episode, host Adam Schick welcomes Scott to find out everything that happened from the moment he decided a change was necessary up until the announcement of the Billy Napier era, filling in all the details from behind the curtain that outsiders can always guess, but never know – until now. Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Part of the thrill of college athletics is the fact there is always new blood coming in, so while some of your favorite athletes may be seniors or on their way out, there are freshmen waiting in the wings to become new stars. With the early period of National Signing Day upon us and a major defection happening in its shadow, this week had a little bit of everything for the Gators. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the departure of Emory Jones, surprises from signing day, how Deion Sanders shook up the world of college football, the state of men’s basketball entering a break, the streaking women’s hoops squad and great shooting performances in the PAT (1:49). Then, men’s basketball grad transfer Brandon McKissic shares his story, including how the social unrest in his hometown of Ferguson shaped him as a teen and why he ultimately left the state of Missouri for the first time in his life to become a Gator (32:55). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

While his pending arrival was already announced a week prior, the new sheriff pulled into town for the first time on Sunday afternoon to the excitement of a Gator Nation hungry for the sustained success that has eluded the program over the last decade. On this week’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to weigh in with first impressions on Coach Napier’s introduction, the plan he intends to implement, an intriguing bowl game on the horizon, an up-and-down week for men’s basketball and odd coaching fits in the PAT (1:43). Then, senior volleyball star Marlie Monserez discusses being the last of the three Monserez sisters to play for the Gators, contributing to many of Mary Wise’s 1,000 career wins and her unique obsession with making pottery (34:37). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Just before the coaching carousel started spinning wildly out of control, Florida presented the calm before the storm with a quick and direct search that led to Louisiana’s Billy Napier as the new head football coach of the Gators. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the new direction of the program, a chaotic rivalry win over the Seminoles, an action-packed week for men’s basketball and the latest wave of moral questions posed by the shifting college football landscape in the PAT (1:35). Then, women’s basketball transfer Zippy Broughton talks about transitioning from the Big Apple to Gainesville, mixing meditation with athletics and much more (37:08). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Change is almost always difficult, and in the business of college sports, it can come swiftly and often inevitably. Following the loss to Missouri that left a once promising season sitting at 5-6, athletic director Scott Stricklin decided it was time for a new direction, ending Dan Mullen’s four-year tenure leading the football program. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to address the move from all angles, including what went wrong, the type of coach it will take to turn it around and what it means for the immediate future of a team fighting to beat its archrival and get bowl-eligible. Also, the roundtable will hit on a promising start for men’s basketball and Thanksgiving sports memories in the PAT (2:01). Then, tight end Key-mar-A Gamble shares his best memories from his Gator career, how he has grown over the course of his time in the program and the personal tragedy he’s fought through to make it to the finish line that is senior day (28:59). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Football was hungry for a win last week in The Swamp, and they got that against Samford. Meanwhile, men’s basketball was specifically seeking a streak-busting win against Florida State, and they found that magic in the O’Dome to ignite their new season. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry join us to discuss football’s unexpected shootout, Emory Jones’ record-setting performance, the challenges awaiting at Missouri, men’s basketball’s narrative-setting victory over the Seminoles and sports figures most deserving of the big screen treatment in the PAT (1:45). Then, sophomore Gervon Dexter joins us to discuss how he is taking cues and learning from fellow defensive lineman Zach Carter, handling expectations as a five-star recruit and much more (34:35). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

As Dan Mullen frequently points out, the beauty of competition is there’s always a winner and a loser, so regardless of the game, there are stakes. The Gators have unfortunately found themselves on the wrong side of that equation lately, and as a result, some significant changes came within the football program after the loss at South Carolina. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the shake-up to the coaching staff and what it means for the immediate future, the shift in tone from the top, men’s basketball’s opening night win, women’s basketball’s solid start, the passing of “Gator Great” Ronnie Williams and the best farewell tours in the PAT (1:45). Then, redshirt-freshman Richie Leonard shares how he ended up on Florida’s offensive line, how he drew inspiration from his mom’s battle against breast cancer and more (32:30). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

While the season is nearing its end, four games still remain for the Gators to finish out strong, so Dan Mullen spent this week ensuring everyone was on the same page and holding onto the proverbial rope. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the aftermath of Florida/Georgia, the turnover challenges plaguing the Gators, the manageable road ahead, men’s basketball’s public debut and memorable exotic trips around the world in the PAT (1:35). Then, recent Florida/Georgia Hall of Fame inductee Keiwan Ratliff takes us through his early life, incredible Gator career and how his post-NFL life brought him back to Gainesville (24:43). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

After taking a week to rest and reset, the Gators have a herculean task ahead of them, as a date with top-ranked Georgia looms this weekend in Jacksonville. Meanwhile, not too far away on campus, the reshaped and rejuvenated men’s basketball squad is tuning up for its debut around the corner. On today’s show, host Adam Schick opens up the Gator Roundtable with FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the latest chapter in the book of Florida/Georgia, how the QB situation is expected to play out this weekend and beyond, the work going on behind the scenes with men’s basketball and sporting events that still deliver butterflies in the PAT (1:48). Then, long snapper and recent scholarship recipient Marco Ortiz shares how he ended up in one of the most unusual and anonymous positions on the field, his identical twin remarkably in the same role at TCU and more (28:24). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

The latest installment in our “GATOR GREATS” series features Brandon James, the only player in SEC history to accumulate over 4,000 combined kickoff and punt return yards. Recently enshrined into the UF Hall of Fame, host Adam Schick talks to the 5’7 native of St. Augustine about his early days in the game, fighting for attention during recruiting, being part of one of the best classes in college football history, the challenges of the 2009 season, his post-football career shift, what it means to be in the UF Hall of Fame and more. Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Gator Tales #281: LB Mohamoud Diabate and LSU Preview by Florida Gators

Adversity often strikes when you leave friendly confines and venture onto the road, and for the Gators, their first trip outside the state of Florida brought frustration and disappointment in Lexington. But with over half of the schedule still to play, the task turns to refocusing on the opportunities ahead. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scot Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the blues brought on at Kentucky, where Anthony Richardson fits into the picture, where the season goes from here, the parade of Olympians stepping into the celebrity “Mr. 2 Bits” role, the start of basketball practice and the most impressive records in sports in the PAT (1:43). Then, senior safety Trey Dean III talks about his rich football bloodline, how he has grown over his career, his love for malls and more (35:32). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

What was once a hotly contested rivalry continued to be a one-sided affair last weekend in The Swamp, with Florida continuing its dominance over Tennessee to improve to 3-1 on the year. But their next test will present a real change of scenery, as they prepare to leave the “Sunshine State” for the first time. On today’s show, host Adam Schick convenes FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to discuss the latest romp against the Vols, the state of the wide receivers, what makes Kentucky a significant challenge and the most engaging athletes they’ve covered in the PAT (1:46). Then, the inspiration for this week’s PAT, grad transfer Antonio Valentino holds court on topics ranging from Happy Valley vs. The Swamp, the “Macho Man” Randy Savage and his mission to help athletes express themselves and grow their brands off the field (27:44). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

After going toe-to-toe with mighty Alabama for 60 minutes last weekend, the Gators may not have claimed a victory, but they certainly earned the respect of everyone in attendance and the college football world. But now that they have the attention, can they play to that standard moving forward through the SEC? On this episode, host Adam Schick chats with FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry about what we learned against Alabama, the lobsided state of the Florida/Tennessee rivalry, Katie Ledecky’s surprising new role with the swimming program and their most memorable game environments in the PAT (1:44). Then, redshirt-freshman punter Jeremy Crawshaw joins the show to discuss his journey from Australian rules football to the American gridiron on the other side of the globe, along with some of the best fish-out-of-water moments he’s experienced along the way (36:25). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

The way the football schedule generally works, we aren’t conditioned for truly massive games until later in the calendar. But in 2021, the script is flipped, with top-ranked Alabama heading to The Swamp this weekend for the first time in a decade. On today’s show, host Adam Schick dives into the details with FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry to cover the matchup from every angle, including the question on everyone’s mind: what role will QB Anthony Richardson play? Then, Auburn transfer Daquan Newkirk shares his personal journey to Gainesville, reveals his very diverse hobbies and reflects on past battles with the Crimson Tide in the Iron Bowl (38:19). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

The Swamp came alive for the first time in 2021 on Saturday, with a packed house treated to a ground game that racked up 400 yards and saw some new stars emerge from the backfield. Not to be outdone, the revamped Florida defense pitched a shutout for three quarters and showed a tenacity up front that suggested a much more resistant unit than the one it fielded a season ago. On today’s show, host Adam Schick is joined by FloridaGators.com senior writer Chris Harry to discuss the opening night action, the emergence of Anthony Richardson, areas in need of shoring up going into week two and how sports helped bring the nation back together after 9/11 in the PAT (1:43). Then, junior offensive lineman Ethan White chats about the evolution of the line, how the strength and conditioning program molded him into a new player, returning to his Tampa Bay home this weekend and more (28:57). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Right about now you’re probably hearing a rumbling in your stomach, which can only mean one thing: you are hungry for college football! Luckily for you, it’s almost time for the 2021 kickoff, a season we all hope resembles much more of what we would call a “normal year” as opposed to the 2020 campaign. On the 7th season premiere of the official podcast of the Gators, host Adam Schick sets the table for the feast to come, starting with a wide-ranging discussion about the storylines and expectations surrounding this season with FloridaGators.com senior writers Scott Carter and Chris Harry (1:37). Then, Adam chats with one of the most dangerous threats off the edge in the SEC: redshirt-senior defensive end Zach Carter (41:14). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Being a “Gator Great” is generally synonymous with outstanding achievements in Gainesville, but when you have world class talent, the pinnacle of your career tends to take you to even grander heights. In preparation for the Tokyo Olympics, host Adam Schick catches up with hurdling phenom Grant Holloway to find out how he is preparing for his date with destiny (1:48). Then, FloridaGators.com senior writer Scott Carter stops by to identify the Gators to watch, both for the USA and other countries around the globe (21:31). Finally, football national champion and former Olympian Jeff Demps discusses his Olympic journey and how he tasted glory on the podium, only to have it unceremoniously taken away due to a tainted teammate (35:25). Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.

Any number of words can be used to describe the 2020 athletic season: unprecedented, weird, nerve-racking, bizarre, frustrating, exciting and many more all across the spectrum. It was undoubtedly a difficult year, and that required a steady hand at the wheel to lead the program through the unknown. On today’s show, host Adam Schick welcomes athletic director Scott Stricklin to assess where the program has been, and more importantly, where it’s going, with a focus on what the fan experience will look like in the fall, highlights from the spring season, hiring just the second coach in the history of Florida soccer, the grand vision for the new football facility, the issues around compensating players for their likeness, future plans for The Swamp, the proposed expansion of the College Football Playoff and more. Please subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear and for more information, visit FloridaGators.com/GatorTales.