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When Florida football coach Billy Napier assembled his army of a football staff, he chose to hire two offensive line coaches rather than one ― an unconventional move for a college coaching staff. Rob Sale is the offensive coordinator and offensive line coach, while Darnell Stapleton is an assistant coach specializing in the offensive line. Offensive lineman Michael Tarquin explained how he has found having two coaches extremely beneficial.
Tarquin Talks Chemistry
Although it’s his fourth year in the program, Tarquin is entering the upcoming football season as a redshirt sophomore. The Ocala native appeared in 12 games for the Gators last season. The 2021 Florida offensive line allowed 14 sacks/1.08 per game, which tied for the seventh lowest in FBS.
Tarquin said that playing with familiar faces has resulted in excellent chemistry on the offensive line. In addition, Sale and Stapleton have emphasized the importance of cohesiveness which has contributed to the line’s success throughout fall camp, according to Tarquin.
Leadership
As one of the more experienced players on the offensive line, Tarquin has embraced his new role as a leader on the team.
Tarquin’s strong leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed. In July, he was named the Danny Wuerffel Man of the Month. The award recognizes a player who has not only demonstrated exceptional leadership, but also character, academics and service.
Congratulations to #GatorMade @DannyWuerffel Man of the Month @Mike_Tarquin70!
This award is presented to the scholar-athlete who demonstrates holistic excellence in character, academics, service, and leadership.
Check out the conversation between Danny and Mike! ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/GfUvjeSyNr
— Florida Gators Football (@GatorsFB) July 13, 2022
Tarquin has also seen quarterback Anthony Richardson take command of the offense during fall camp. Richardson does not shy away from bringing the team together to talk through mistakes and find solutions to eliminate them.
Undisciplined Penalties
A primary focus this offseason has been discipline. Last season, Florida averaged 70.62 penalty yards per game. Tarquin believes the Gators’ focus on minute details throughout the offseason will translate to success on the field.
Next Man Up
With redshirt senior Richard Gouraige sidelined during fall camp, the younger and more inexperienced players have seen the importance of being ready to step in at any moment. Gouraige has been a key contributor on the Florida offensive line the past three seasons.
https://twitter.com/GatorsFB/status/1549872175338979330
Sale and Stapleton have emphasized the “next man up” mentality as well. Tarquin praised redshirt freshmen Austin Barber and Kamryn Waites for their preparation heading into the season.
Tough Competition
Tarquin is eager to embrace the challenge the Gators have ahead of them this season.
“Part of the reason why I wanted to come play for Florida; you get to play against great competition. Pretty much almost every week you’re gonna go against an NFL-level D-lineman which I love. I love the competition.”
With a season-opener against No. 8 Utah on September 3 in The Swamp followed by a test against SEC East foe Kentucky the following week, the Gators will certainly face tough competition early this season.
