UF long has made claim to the fictional title Defensive Back University — “DBU” for short.
But a season ago, the Gators’ vaunted secondary fell into a backpedal. Gone were three second-round NFL draft picks — safety Marcus Maye and cornerbacks Quincy Wilson and Jalen Tabor. DBU was left rebuilding and relying on some young, unproven players.
The group suffered growing pains during a 4-7 season. But under new direction, the Gators’ defensive backfield looks to reclaim its place among the nation’s best.
“I was telling the players, I think that Florida has a right to claim that,” first-year UF safeties coach Ron English said.