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Gators playing for the state of Florida after hurricane

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There were no jokes. No smiles. None of Jim McElwain's usual folksy charm.

McElwain's weekly press conference on Wednesday became one of his most somber as Florida's head coach. He looked tired, and spoke softly.

Understandably so. Hurricane Irma battered Gainesville - and the state of Florida - on Sunday and Monday. In Gainesville, trees were down on roofs and across roads. Many lost power. Some streets were flooded.

"Some things are just more important than third-and-7," he said.

In addition to protecting his own family, McElwain was concerned for the safety and emotional well-being of his players.