Florida gets Mullen era off to rousing start with 53-6 win

Feleipe Franks threw five touchdowns passes in the first half and Florida got the Dan Mullen era off to rousing start with a 53-6 victory against overmatched Charleston Southern on Saturday night.

Franks, who managed just nine touchdowns passes in 11 games as a freshman in 2017, had five in less than 30 minutes of work against the lower-division Buccaneers.

Franks showed poise in the pocket and precision with every pass, attributes that eluded him under former coach Jim McElwain .

Maybe Franks is benefiting from Mullen, a deft play-caller who helped Alex Smith, Tim Tebow and Dak Prescott become college stars. Maybe Franks is thriving in a simplified offense and surrounded by more talent. Maybe…