Ex-Josey standout gets in for Gators

COLUMBIA --- Former Josey standout Lawrence Marsh has seen limited action for Florida this year after an injury early in the season.

Marsh, a redshirt junior, did not start Saturday's game against South Carolina, but he did get significant playing time. It was just the fifth game he has played in this season because of a right ankle sprain.

"It's been a real tough season for me," Marsh said after the game. "It's kept me from starting this year."

The nose tackle sat out the first two games of the year before making three tackles for the Gators in their win against Tennessee. Against Georgia, Marsh made one tackle in Florida's 41-17 victory.

Even though he didn't show up in the statistics Saturday, Marsh said he helped make a couple of tackles and he plugged the middle of the line against South Carolina's rushing attack.

Marsh hopes the ankle continues to improve as the Gators vie for a second consecutive national championship. Florida will play Alabama in the Southeastern Conference title game Dec. 5.

"I feel real good. We're No. 1 and 10-0," Marsh said.

"Hopefully I can get better and show out in the championship game."

VETERANS SALUTE: South Carolina wore special uniforms to honor the Wounded Warrior Project. Created by Under Armour, the uniforms were black and desert camouflage and featured the project's logo.

The words "duty," "honor," "courage," "commitment," "integrity," "country" and "service," which reflect the core values of the program, replaced the last names on the backs of the Gamecocks' jerseys.

The project's mission is to honor and empower wounded servicemen. It strives to raise awareness for those in the military who have been severely injured and provides programs and services for them.

South Carolina's coaching staff wore khaki and black outfits. Maryland also wore special uniforms Saturday against Virginia Tech.

Reach John Boyette at (706) 823-3337 or john.boyette@augustachronicle.com.