Many Florida fans were ready for coach Dan Mullen to replace Jones with big-play backup Anthony Richardson after the opener against FAU. The calls grew louder after Richardson ripped off two more touchdown plays longer than 70 yards last weekend at USF.
Against Alabama, fans mixed in some boos for Jones after his slow start, along with Richardson’s unavailability because of right hamstring tightness sustained during an 80-yard touchdown run against USF.
Forced to carry the load, Jones eventually showed grit, guile and a grasp of Mullen’s offense to spearhead an unlikely comeback.
Jones overcame a first-quarter interception in UF territory to allow Alabama to seize a 21-3 lead.