Florida Gators RB Chris Rainey’s 233 Total Yards Lead to Win Over Tennessee

Saturday, September 17, 2011

GatorZone.com

By Bob Evans
Senior Writer

When Chris Rainey was recruited to the University of Florida, he was hyped as the “next big playmaker” for the Gators. Five years later against the Tennessee Volunteers, he has finally stepped into that role.

Saturday against Tennessee Rainey stepped up big for the Gators, amassing a total of 233 yards during the game. He had 108 yards on the ground, 104 yards and a touchdown receiving and 21 punt return yards in the team’s 33-23 victory. His biggest play came in the middle of the third quarter, as he and quarterback John Brantley hooked up for an 83-yard touchdown reception.

It seems that Rainey, a fifth-year senior, has come into his own with Charlie Weis as the offensive coordinator. In three games this season, Rainey has already rushed for 306 yards and two touchdowns, while adding in 214 and two touchdowns receiving. In fact, at 5’9” and 174 pounds, he is beginning to remind me of a guy that Weis coached in Kansas City last season—former Ole Miss hybrid player Dexter McCluster.

The team as a whole had 347 yards of total offense today, but what was even more impressive was the job done by the defense, which allowed just 279 total yards, 23 points, forcing two turnovers in the process.

With Weis opening up the offense this season, and an improved defense, it could mean big things for the Brantley, Rainey and the Gators in 2011. And with Rainey finally stepping into his “playmaker” role, the Gators could be a team to be reckoned with in the SEC East this season.




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