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UF player to watch

CALL ME DEE

His birth certificate reads Demetrice Webb, but if he manages to live up to the lofty expectations placed on him this season, all you'll hear from Gator fans is "Dee." After seeing action as a freshman in 11 games last season on special teams and six on defense, Dee Webb is ready to make his mark at cornerback full time.

When Webb (5-11, 178 pounds) tried to figure out the best way to make the transition from high school star to college starter, he decided to seek those who had done it.

He spent as much time as possible watching tape and working with former Gators who've excelled at the position.

"All I did was really get into the films, into the books and learning things from Keiwan (Ratliff) and Lito (Sheppard)," Webb said. "I wanted to learn about all the things they did when they were here."

A former track star, he once qualified for the Junior Olympics in the 100 meters (10.6). "I think my speed sets me apart from a lot of corners," he said.

Webb's former high school coach, Dan Disch, is an assistant with the Gators. Webb's speed is a natural talent that is a great asset, but there's something Disch finds even more special about him. "He competes," Disch said. "He's a competitor and he doesn't really like to lose, so when it's crunch time, you know he's going to be there and battle for you."