New Era: John Brantley Holds The Keys To Florida's Success

It seemed as if Tim Tebow was quarterback at Florida forever.

His four years are over and he has left his mark on Gator Nation.  Now is the time for John Brantley to step into the spotlight as starting quarterback of the Florida Gators.

The Gators have been successful in launching NCAA quarterbacks into the NFL—

Coming behind a long line of successful quarterbacks that includes: Danny Wuerffel, Jesse Palmer, Rex Grossman, Chris Leak, and most recently Mr. Tebow— Brantley is a Junior and the next in line to become acclimated to Urban Meyers spread offense.

It's not as if he is headed into this season with no idea of what's going on.  Brantley is capable of filling the shoes of Tebow and has showed the ability to make all the throws in practice and even in mop-up duty last year.

And while the offensive leader has left the field for the NFL, the real question for Urban Meyer and his Gator squad is who will step up to fill voids left on both sides of the ball. 

As far as receivers are concerned, there is no more Louis Murphy, Percy Harvin, Riley Cooper, or Aaron Hernandez catching passes—instead, Brantley will need to find a new go-to receiver.

Florida has one of the best recruiting classes in the country but are these kids going to be focused and ready to come in and contribute right away—this is where John Brantley will have to be a difference-maker.

His experience and leadership is going to have to be evident early on in the season if this team expects to compete for the SEC Championship. 

Don't forget an October 2 matchup at rival Alabama will be looming on the minds of college football fans—a game that will be a true test of Brantley's ability to get it done for Florida.

A highly covetted recruit out of high school in 2007, this current Gator had every intention of become a Longhorn. However, Brantley decommitted from Texas to follow in the footsteps of his father and uncle and attend the University of Florida.

A decision no one is regretting—during the Spring Game Brantley shined completing 15-of-19 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns.  His efficiency and turnover-free football is going to be important for the Florida Gators this season.

He has the arm accuracy and strength to compete with all of the top college quarterbacks in the game today.  I believe that Brantley is going to surprise a lot of people with how he performs— in fact the Gators success will most liekly be contingent on the performance of the supporting members of this young football team.

For those doubting the juniors ability to step up, don't forget Brantley has spent the last three years watching and learning from Tim Tebow— one of the most successful quarterbacks in the history of college football. 

Brantley is also being coached by Urban Meyer. With two NCAA titles to his name, Meyer is well-known for maximizing talent and preparing his players, and has had great success in the quarterback slot on gameday. 

The 2006 Football Gatorade Player of the Year in the state of Florida and four-star recruit is ready to show off the skills he has come September.

John Brantley is going to have a tremendous impact on Florida's offense and will determine the teams success.

Many analysts think Florida will have a tough time replacig Tebow and the talent around him, but don't say that to John Brantley.

He is focused and dedicated on winning football games.