ORLANDO - It’s pretty unusual for the scout team quarterback to become a topic of conversation heading into a bowl game, or any game for that matter.

But when there is a great deal of speculation that the scout team QB could be the starting QB next fall, it happens.

Senior guard Trip Thurman was asked about Luke Del Rio on Monday. The Oregon State transfer is ineligible this season, but is considered a viable candidate for the starting role in the spring, based on his performances during summer workouts and this fall on the scout team.

“He’s done great,” Thurman said of Del Rio. “You always hear about the story where Brett Favre was with the Packers, and Aaron Rodgers was on the scout team learning the offense and getting to know the guys and getting his timing down with the younger guys.

“He has great chemistry on that scout team and he has great chemistry throughout the team, so I think he’s going to be a big part of this team next year.”

Thurman was asked about Del Rio’s strengths.

“Just pre-snap reads,” he said. “He knows defenses, he knows the offense, he was with (offensive coordinator Doug) Nussmeier at Alabama. That’s a big key.”

While Del Rio seems to become more popular the more Treon Harris struggles, Thurman said he expects UF’s current starting quarterback to bounce back from some poor-late season performances in Friday’s Citrus Bowl.

“He has put in plenty of work,” Thurman said. “It’s tough on a guy like that, putting the onus on him with the thing with Will (Grier). He’s stepped up big time and he’s learned from his mistakes the past two games, and he’s going to be ready for Michigan.”

Above is from Gainesville Sun. Trip also talks about Fred Johnson replacing Halter and how he has improved as a true frosh with experience. The article also talks about Jalen Tabor and he seems to have his screwed on tight and how he hopes Maye and Neal return...but of course he understands if they leave.

IMO if Maye and Neal return we will be in every game we play because of our defense. Shut down city again.