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Gators enter Week 1 matchup with FAU on accelerated timetable as top-ranked Alabama looms

GAINESVILLE — Florida’s Dan Mullen’s 13th regular-season opener as a head coach presents a familiar balancing act.

Don’t reveal too much on offense, but give fans the fireworks they came for and players the snaps and game plan needed to get up to speed.

A visit from FAU 7:30 p.m. Saturday night is unlikely to require the 13th-ranked Gators, a 24 ½-point favorite, to strain themselves to pick up the program’s nation-leading 32nd straight victory during a home opener.

Mullen’s fourth Florida team also on a tight schedule, with first-year starting quarterback Emory Jones leading a retooled offense and a Sept.