Okay, so the spring game is still five and half weeks away, and the first regular season football game isn’t until August 30. But it’s not too early to look at what made Florida a great sports school in the first place. Besides, everyone around here could use a short break from basketball and all of the nervous tension it entails.

Here is a breakdown of the team, position by position. Be warned, this might be a bit lengthy.

Quarterback:

Okay, so UF returns incumbent Heisman winner and part-time superman Tim Tebow. But with that being said, it’s time for Tim to impress the NFL draft scouts. Even with a trophy case of awards, the pros still have some concerns about #15:

* Criticism of Meyer’s system. After all, he did coach a first overall draft pick in Alex Smith, who has yet to reach his potential. And Tebow is cut from the same cloth as Smith.
* His rushing must drop, but not disappear. NFL teams hit harder, bigger, and faster than in college, and with sixteen games in an NFL regular season compared to twelve in college, scouts are worried that he’ll land in a hospital.
Also, they want to see a slightly more elusive running style. Ideally, he’ll be a more athletic Ben Roethlisberger or Donovan McNabb.
* His mechanics. Scouts would like to see tighter spirals and a slightly higher release point to take advantage of his height.
* Intangibles. Not everyone will view Tebow’s emotional displays after wins or losses as an asset.

If Tim can do all of that, he’ll be in good shape for the draft should he choose to turn pro. But based upon his priority list, I think he’ll stay another year, get his degree, and only then turn pro.

But if he’s not careful, he might wind up switching positions on an NFL roster. Think it’s impossible, Tim?

Ask Antwaan Randle-El.

Running back:

Emmanuel Moody will be more important to the football team than most fans will realize, because he’s a power running back who will complement Percy Harvin’s skill set nicely. And with three playmakers instead of two, Meyer’s offensive options increase dramatically. Will Tebow or Harvin run? Will Tebow fake a handoff to Moody, then throw to Harvin? Will Moody act as a lead blocker for Harvin? Also, look for freshman Jeff Demps to play a significant role at some point in the season.

Oh yeah, this position went through a coaching change. Stan Drayton is out, Kenny Carter is in.

Wide receiver:

Yes, there’s Harvin, but there’s also help. As with the RBs, look for Carl Moore to add another dimension to the offense. I also want to see how guys like Riley Cooper, David Nelson, and Louis Murphy have improved in the offseason. They could come in handy if defenses try to double-team one or both star receivers.

Offensive line:

In all likelihood, the Pouncey twins to start together. Mike’s time as a defensive tackle is over, but his job as a center is just beginning. Best bit of news: Phil Trautwein is returning from injury.

Tight end:

If there was a weak link in Florida’s offense, it was Cornelius Ingram. His inconsistency in catching the ball cost the Gators at least one win. His strength was not at the level it needed to be for a true tight end. He wants to enter the NFL, so look for him to address his issues. At his best, Ingram, like any good tight end, will be a mismatch for a defense; he’s too big for corners but too fast for linebackers.

Defensive line:

The bad news is that Derrick Harvey is leaving, but Omar Hunter is coming at just the right time. Last year, Florida’s pass rush was their strong suit, and expect Hunter starting to patch up the good guys at this weak point. Since there’s a lot of underclassmen, look for them to get bigger and faster.

Linebackers:

Brandon Spikes has stepped up to team-captain status, and this team needs it. Look for redshirt Jerimy Finch to help out in this area of need; he converted from the safety position, which is good for both sides.

Cornerbacks:

Ah yes, the fundamental weakness in Florida’s game. There’s a lot of potential for these guys, new coach Vance Bedford’s first Gator squad. His experience in college and the NFL will prove handy.

Safeties:

I see Major Wright and Will Hill as starters with Kyle Jackson and Tony Joiner now alumni. Wright has experience at free safety and will step up almost immediately. And the fact that him and Hill can intercept balls like a corner will be music to Bedford’s ears.

Special teams:

Chas Henry is the punter, Caleb Sturgis is the kicker, and Brandon James the returner. Not much to be said here.