Florida defensive lineman Sharrif Floyd was declared ineligible prior to the team's season-opening 41-3 win against Florida Atlantic on Saturday.
Floyd was on the sidelines in a jersey and shorts, but the University Athletic Association released a statement minutes before the game began.
"We have declared Sharrif Floyd ineligible and he is not eligible to compete until his eligibility is reinstated by the NCAA," the statement said. "We have been and will continue to work with the NCAA until this matter is resolved. This is an issue that is not related to sports agents, University of Florida boosters or his recruitment to Florida. We will not have any additional comments on this matter until it is resolved."
Floyd, who came to Florida as the No. 1 defensive tackle in the nation out of high school in 2010, was expected to start along the Gators' defensive line in the team's revamped defense.
Earlier in the week, defensive coordinator Dan Quinn called Floyd one of the team's top pass-rushers, and said the former five-star recruit would line up at defensive end in the team's base scheme, and at tackle in the Gators' nickel package.
In his place, the Gators started senior William Green on the line alongside Dominique Easley and Jaye Howard.
