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UF Reacts To Coach McElwain's Departure

There have been mixed reactions within the University of Florida community since the UF Athletic Association announced the release of head football coach Jim McElwain.

Despite being an avid Gator football fan since he was 16, Gainesville resident Jonathan Benson is indifferent about the decision.

"Personally, I don't mind either way," Benson said.

For others, such as former UF quarterback Shane Matthews, the decision hits close to home.

"You know, I'm a coach's son, so I know about how the profession works," Matthews said. "You hate to see people lose their jobs, but you have to win football games."

Matthews, who was the starting UF quarterback from 1990 to 1992, said the offense has gotten worse since McElwain took over.

"If you get the right offensive guy, he can turn it around immediately," Matthews said.