TALLAHASSEE - Dominic Robinson will start for the first time at flanker Saturday.
Robinson was given the start over St. Petersburg Catholic's Chris Davis and Lorne Sam two weeks after offensive coordinator Jeff Bowden opened competition when Craphonso Thorpe broke his leg, ending his season.
The junior has 11 catches for 183 yards this season and said that experience probably played a big part in the decision. Davis and Sam are redshirt freshmen.
"I don't think I am any better than those other guys I battled it out for," said Robinson, who moved from defensive back after his freshman season. "I think it just came to a point where (Bowden) had to make a decision.
"I don't think it really matters who is getting the start because all three of us are going to get a shot."
Quarterback Chris Rix said Robinson was the most dependable in practice.
"I think Coach Bowden feels better with him through experience and obviously the way he's performed," Rix said.
Saturday's game will be Robinson's third against the Gators. He started as the slot receiver last season, catching one ball for 22 yards in the Florida State win.
MORE TO PROVE: While FSU's overtime win over N.C. State clinched an ACC title and second straight BCS bowl bid, the matchup with the Gators is just as significant.
"There is too much to gain if you win, for both of us," coach Bobby Bowden said. "It's trying to stay in the Top 10, trying to climb back where you were to get your status back."
Senior cornerback Stanford Samuels put it another way:
"This is bigger than the national championship. Most time national championship is against somebody out west or some other team that you never really play. This is against somebody who lives in your back yard, who steals off your mango tree. It means more. It's bragging rights."
INJURY UPDATE: It seems the healing powers of a bye week have paid off.
Bowden said the only player he expects to miss the game is fullback B.J. Dean, because of a knee injury Nov. 8 against Clemson.
Reserve center John Frady is questionable with the flu. Senior linebackers Michael Boulware and Allen Augustin are questionable, but after practicing most of the week should be ready.
"They missed some practices last week, but that's what it's for: try to get them healthy again," Bowden said.
Kick returner Antonio Cromartie, cornerback Bryant McFadden and center David Castillo, all with knee problems, are probable.
