KNOXVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 24: Austin Appleby #12 of the Florida Gators looks to pass against the Tennessee Volunteers in the first quarter at Neyland Stadium on September 24, 2016 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

We'll have one more Appleby game as Del Rio still 'highly doubtful' for Vandy game

He should be just fine against Vanderbilt.

Florida fans were surely hoping to see Luke Del Rio come back from his knee injury this week against Vanderbilt, but that won't be the case as the school announced he is "highly doubtful" to play this week. Del Rio suffered the injury against North Texas two weeks ago when a defender hit him low around the knee and he staggered off the field.

RELATED: Florida QB knocked out of the game on dirty hit and OL gets ejected

Appleby took over starting duties against Tennessee and while the Gators ultimately lost the game 38-28, the quarterbacking was not the issue. The defense gave up way too many big plays in the second half and Appleby actually looked pretty good. He connected on 23-0f-39 passing attempts for 296 yards and three touchdowns against one interception.

He will be facing a defense in Vanderbilt that gives up over 26 points and about 275 passing yards a game —- that's worst in the conference —- so he should have another solid outing assuming the play calling doesn't get conservative again during this game.