Colleges

UF's 3-point plan

By Antonya English
Published August 31, 2007

Florida's 3-point plan for staying at the top

1. Consistently recruit the nation's top players: Urban Meyer calls recruiting "the lifeblood of any program" and says it is a major criteria upon which his staff is constantly evaluated. His theory is that to remain among the best, you must get the best players. Without talent, you won't win. It's that simple.

2. Staff continuity: Former Florida quarterback Chris Leak played for three offensive coordinators in four seasons. Meyer believes that maintaining continuity of the staff is critical because the coaches know each other and work well together, and players aren't forced to be in a constant state of flux every year. He cautions, however, that occasional change among staff is good to keep from getting stale.

3. Leadership and adaptability: With the loss of 17 starters from last season, Meyer said having players step up and lead younger ones is a must for any program trying to build upon its success. Also, veterans must be able to quickly adapt to the loss of players from the previous season, to help bolster that leadership. Meanwhile, young players must be mature and talented enough to quickly step in and fill holes left by others' departure.

Antonya English, Times staff writer

[Last modified August 29, 2007, 10:29:54]