Palmer to Start for Florida

Jesse Palmer, who grew up playing football in a country that embraces hockey, will be Florida’s starting quarterback Saturday against No. 6 Auburn, Coach Steve Spurrier announced Thursday.

Palmer, widely recruited last year from Canada, will be the first freshman to start at quarterback in Spurrier’s eight years as coach. He replaces sophomore Doug Johnson, who was suspended for the Auburn game because of a curfew violation last week.

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A standout female soccer player is suiting up for Willamette in Saturday’s football game against Linfield College.

“I’ve always wanted to know what it’s like to be out on a football field,” said Liz Heaston, 20, of Richland, Wash. “This is a great opportunity for me, and I’m really excited.”