Florida Starts Aaron Philo Against Georgia in Atlanta

Florida will turn to Aaron Philo at quarterback against No. 3 Georgia in Atlanta on Saturday, as first-year coach Jon Sumrall looks to end the Gators' five-game losing streak against their rivals. Sources told ESPN's Pete Thamel that Philo will start ahead of Tramell Jones Jr. after both quarterbacks shared first-team practice repetitions this week.

Philo returns to the starting role after missing Florida's 27-24 upset victory over Texas on Oct. 17 because of a shoulder injury. His return gives the Gators an experienced option for a challenging matchup against the No. 3 Bulldogs.

Jones delivered 155 passing yards and two touchdowns against Texas, completing 22 of 35 attempts in his first career start. However, Sumrall said Jones had been managing several minor injuries during the week.

Both quarterbacks initially appeared as questionable on Florida's availability report. Sumrall maintained confidence in either option earlier in the week.

"I've said the whole time I think we can win with either guy," said Florida coach Jon Sumrall.

Philo spent his first two college seasons at Georgia Tech before joining Florida alongside offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner. According to his season statistics, Philo has completed 70.5% of his passes for 1,341 yards, nine touchdowns and three interceptions across six games.

His background also includes a state record established during his high school career. In 2023, Philo finished his four-year tenure at Prince Avenue Christian School in Bogart with 13,922 passing yards, surpassing the previous Georgia high school record of 13,902 set by Trevor Lawrence at Cartersville High School from 2014 to 2017.

Georgia coach Kirby Smart acknowledged that Florida has two capable quarterbacks ahead of the matchup. He highlighted their respective victories over Ole Miss and Texas when discussing the challenges facing his defense.

"Both are very talented. One beat Ole Miss and one beat Texas on the road. I mean, they're both completely capable, good players, knowing about both of them for a long time.

And in terms of their ability, they're both plenty capable, especially in Buster's offense. It's quarterback-driven, but it doesn't require the quarterback to be perfect. He gives them so many options, and he can play to the strengths of each guy," said Georgia coach Kirby Smart.

Florida also expects to receive a boost at wide receiver, with Vernell Brown III listed as probable. Brown has missed three games while recovering from a sprained right knee and is expected to return against Georgia.

However, receiver Bailey Stockton and linebacker Jaden Robinson are both listed as doubtful for the Gators.

Georgia will remain without running back Chauncey Bowens, who has been ruled out again after missing the previous two games with a foot injury. Nate Frazier, Dwight Phillips Jr. and Bo Walker are expected to handle backfield duties in his absence.

Safety KJ Bolden remains a potential game-time decision because of a leg injury. He also missed Georgia's loss to Auburn.