Aaron Philo and Jadan Baugh fuel explosive Florida’s offense in Jon Sumrall’s debut, a 66-21 rout of Florida Atlantic, giving Gators fans plenty to celebrate as UF opens the 2026 season.

The Florida Gators open the 2026 season on Saturday against FAU while also playing host to many important prospects in the 2027, 2028 and 2029 classes.

Coming off a highly competitive year for the AAC, the FAU Owls look to contend and secure a winning season for the first time since 2020. The squad has returned key pieces including starting quarterback Caden Veltkamp.

NM: The offensive line will tell the story of the season, but for Saturday’s game, the secondary will be key. FAU will throw the ball all game long, and it has an experienced quarterback and several talented wide receivers. Florida’s secondary will be challenged vertically.

Florida DC Brad White discussed FAU's up-tempo passing attack, the Gators' secondary and his multiple defensive fronts ahead of Week 1.

FAU coach Zach Kittley says QB Caden Veltkamp "could have been out there and just taking bids ... there's just a trust factor there. And he's different."