Gators expect to have 4 defenders back vs. Georgia

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Top-ranked Florida could have four key defenders, including linebacker Brandon Spikes, back against Georgia.

Spikes and defensive tackles Lawrence Marsh and Jaye Howard practiced Tuesday for the first time in more than a week, and coaches expect them to play Saturday against the Bulldogs.

Marsh has played just two games this season because of a high ankle sprain, and Howard missed the last two games because of a knee injury.

Spikes, the team's defensive captain, injured his groin Oct. 10 at LSU and played only a series the following week against Arkansas. He sat out Saturday's game at Mississippi State.

The Gators also could have backup defensive tackle Justin Trattou available. Trattou ruptured his left biceps tendon against Arkansas and didn't play last weekend.