Florida Gators: Justin Trattou Says Defense Will Be Ready to Battle

In a pre-spring practice interview conducted in Gainesville, defensive lineman Justin Trattou says don't underestimate the Gator defense.

With the loss of Joe Haden, Brandon Spikes, Carlos Dunlap, Jermaine Cunningham, and Major Wright, one would think that the Gator defense would consider it a rebuilding year. 

Not so fast says Trattou.

Trattou says that the team is in the weight room working hard to prove all the doubters wrong.

"Im trying to lead by example in all we do," says Trattou.

Asked about leadership, Trattou said that it's up to him and Ahmad Black to step up and make it happen.

Trattou says its natural to think that people's reaction will be toward a rebuilding year, but he says he thinks spring practice will show who will step up and contribute to the defense.

With Florida sending a convoy to the combine in Indy, a new defensive coordinator, and Urban Meyer on a sabatical, it's only natural to vision some growing pains on defense. 

Look for a couple of stud recruits, such as five star recruit Matt Elam, and blue chipper Shariff Floyd to make their mark on the Gator defense.

Look also for a familiar jersey on the field when the Gators start playing.  No not Tebow, but Haden.  The younger brother of Gator great Joe Haden is Jordan Haden. If pedigree has anything to do with it, I think that we are in for a special treat.

Im my opinion, one thing that the Gators must do well this season is force turnovers.  Scoring on defense has been a Gator staple in the recent past, and with the stud lineup coming into this season, I expect it to continue.

Hang in there Gator fans.  Spring practice is right around the corner.