Texas Gets Injury Boost As Florida QB Aaron Philo's Status In Doubt

The Texas Longhorns could be getting an important defensive weapon back just as the Florida Gators face the possibility of playing without their starting quarterback.

Thursday's SEC injury report delivered encouraging news for No. 7 Texas, with defensive lineman Justus Terry listed as "probable" for Saturday's matchup at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Meanwhile, Florida quarterback Aaron Philo remains "questionable" with a shoulder injury that could significantly alter the Gators' offensive game plan.

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For Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, Terry's potential return couldn't come at a better time.

The talented sophomore hasn't played since suffering a foot injury during warmups before the Ohio State game. He's missed four consecutive contests, although he dressed for last weekend's 27-24 loss to Oklahoma without seeing action.

Getting Terry back would provide another option along a defensive front already featuring standout pass rusher Colin Simmons.

Florida, however, has a much bigger concern under center.

Philo injured his shoulder during the Gators' 38-19 loss to South Carolina and has been limited in practice. The Georgia Tech transfer has thrown for 1,341 yards this season, adding 104 rushing yards while accounting for 12 touchdowns against three interceptions.

If Philo can't play, Florida could turn to redshirt freshman Tramell Jones, who has appeared in four games this season.

That's hardly an ideal situation for a Gators team trying to rebound from consecutive SEC losses.

Florida's injury concerns don't end at quarterback.

Wide receivers Vernell Brown III and Bailey Stockton are also questionable, although Brown's outlook appears to be improving.

Brown has recorded 17 receptions for 271 yards and two touchdowns in four games. His availability would provide a much-needed boost to a Florida passing attack already facing questions about its starting quarterback.

Stockton, meanwhile, is coming off one of his strongest performances of the season against South Carolina.

The Gators will also be without running back Duke Clark, reducing their depth behind leading rusher Jadan Baugh.

Texas isn't completely healthy, either.

Offensive lineman Jaydon Chatman has been ruled out, while fellow lineman Jordan Coleman is questionable. Wide receiver Kaliq Lockett is listed as doubtful, leaving the Longhorns with their own personnel decisions ahead of kickoff.

Still, the biggest development involves the opposing quarterbacks and defensive fronts.

A healthier Texas defense facing a potentially shorthanded Florida offense could provide the Longhorns an opportunity to regain momentum after their Red River Rivalry defeat.

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But Sarkisian's team can't afford to overlook the Gators, regardless of who's available.

Texas and Florida kick off Saturday at 11 a.m. CT on ABC, with another SEC injury update expected before game day.