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Notebook: Garcia Will Run UF Offense During Practice

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 7, 2007

GAINESVILLE Tampa native Stephen Garcia could have his hands full this week.

South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier appointed the former Jefferson High star to simulate University of Florida QB Tim Tebow during practices this week on the scout team as the Gamecocks prepare for their game against the Gators on Saturday night.

Garcia, a freshman, is also in contention for next season's starting quarterback spot after the Gamecocks' current leader, Blake Mitchell, graduates.

"We'll wait and see. [Garcia] can run around a little bit," Spurrier said. "Ball comes out of his hand nicely. He's got a lot to learn about trying to play quarterback."

Garcia will battle Chris Smelley and Tommy Beecher for the role, so perhaps mimicking Tebow might not turn out to be such a bad gig.

Spurrier praised Tebow's ability to be a double threat on the field.

"The tapes I've watched, he doesn't miss many open guys. If they're open, he doesn't zing it 5, 10 yards over their heads," Spurrier said. "He's made some unbelievable plays when they're not open and guys hanging all over him and this, that and the other. He's just a guy that can run around and break some tackles and still get balls off. He's really the type of quarterback that almost everyone is looking for."

Jenna Marina

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