GAINESVILLE -- Mike Gillislee has a chance against Florida State on Saturday to do something a Florida running back hasn’t done in nearly a decade — reach the 1,000-yard milestone.

Gillislee needs 36 yards against the Seminoles to become the Gators’ first 1,000-yard back since Ciatrick Fason rushed for 1,267 in 2004. Florida offensive coordinator Brent Pease said it was “very tough” to even get to the point Gillislee has reached.

“It takes a lot of durability, especially when you carry the ball that many times,” he said. “In this league, it’s a big accomplishment. It’s a credit to Mike. He still has to get it done. He’s not there yet.”

Barring a significant injury, it’s a near certainty that Gillislee will reach the mark, if not against FSU then in UF’s bowl game. He is averaging 87.6 yards per game and has not rushed for fewer than 37 yards in a game all season.

• Although he feels responsible at times for the criticism levied against the offense, Pease said it remains a work a progress — one he said he is committed to despite rumors of him leaving for a head coaching job.

“Everybody has to understand the circumstances around everything when things are new,” he said. “I didn’t expect this thing to be a work of perfection or I would have come here for one year and left.”

Matt watts