If Florida quarterback Will Grier's own play hasn't been enough to secure his starting role, it was made more secure Wednesday when his backup, Treon Harris, was suspended for Saturday's game against rival Tennessee along with cornerback Jalen Tabor.
UF coach Jim McElwain said the suspensions were "based on some choices they made," according to the Orlando Sentinel.
Those choices, according to ESPN's Brett McMurphy, resulted in a failed drug test for Harris and an automatic suspension for Tabor because he refused to take a drug test.
"They won't be with us this week," McElwain added. "We need some guys to step up. They'll be back next week."
Harris was central to Florida's 10-9 comeback win at Tennessee last year. Harris replaced Jeff Driskel in that game and took over the job from there, helping the Gators to bowl eligibility. Tabor played a key role in the win over Tennessee as well, with an interception. Tabor, a sophomore starter at cornerback, has made 10 tackles in three games with an interception and four pass breakups. Harris, also a sophomore, has completed 19 of 27 passes this season. He started UF's season opener before giving way to Grier.
It's not the first time Harris and Tabor have been involved in an off-field issue. The Sentinel noted Harris was cited for operating a vehicle without a license in December, and police found marijuana in the car, with Tabor as one of two passengers. No charges were filed.
Last year, Harris was accused of a sexual assault and suspended by the school, only to be reinstated days later when his accuser withdrew the complaint.
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