GAINESVILLE -- Freshman Dante Fowler, who has been working at the Buck linebacker spot in the absence of injured starter Ronald Powell, received all the reps at the position during Saturday’s open practice after backup Lerentee McCray tweaked his hamstring in Friday’s scrimmage.

While coach Will Muschamp wants Fowler to shed some weight, he’s also concerned with how Fowler and other freshmen will handle the start of classes on Wednesday.

“You don’t know when school starts and you’re game planning and there is 9,000 things going on, how well they are going to be able to focus,” he said. “That’s where sometimes you’ll see a freshman hit the wall, and it all hits them.”

Muschamp also mentioned freshman defensive end Jonathan Bullard as a player who has taken some steps forward.

Injuries

Freshman offensive tackle D.J. Humphries, a five-star recruit and the expected backup at left tackle, will miss two to three weeks with an MCL injury, Muschamp said Saturday. Freshman safety Marcus Maye (meniscus) experienced swelling and soreness after practicing Friday and will be out indefinitely. McCray (hamstring), tight end Jordan Reed (MCL) and linebacker Mike Taylor (shoulder) are expected back at practice Monday.

Matt Watts