The Southeastern Conference announced the game times and television schedule for the Florida Gators' first three contests of the 2026 season, setting the stage for a highly anticipated start under new head coach Jon Sumrall.
Opening Week Details
Florida will open its campaign on Sept. 5 against Florida Atlantic, kicking off at 7:45 p.m. on the SEC Network, marking the beginning of what many expect to be a transformative year for the program.
A week later, the Gators host Campbell on Sept. 12 at 5:30 p.m. on SECN+, a matchup that will be the first ever between the two schools; Campbell entered the previous season with a 2‑10 record and struggled in CAA play.
The third game takes the Gators on the road to Auburn, where they will meet the Tigers at 7 p.m. on ESPN in Week 3, beginning a nine‑game SEC slate that promises tough tests early in the schedule.
Staff Changes and Quarterback Battle
Sumrall arrived with a revamped staff, bringing in Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner and Kentucky defensive coordinator Brad White, while the quarterback position remains unsettled.
The competition features Tramell Jones Jr., who threw for 191 yards and two touchdowns in limited action last year, and Aaron Philo, a Georgia Tech transfer who posted 373 yards with one touchdown and one interception in 2025.
Both players split first‑team reps during the Orange and Blue spring game, alongside true freshman Will Griffin and redshirt junior Aidan Warner, adding depth to a room that also includes DJ Lagway, whose five‑interception performance against LSU highlighted last season’s frustrations.
Fans are watching closely, hopeful that the new direction and added depth will translate into a stronger start than the 1‑3 opening the Gators posted in 2025.