Florida walk-on DB Michael Guilford died in a motorcycle accident overnight, according to the Gainesville Sun. He was 19 years old. Also killed in the crash: Ashley E. Slonina, 20.
Beyond sad: the two were allegedly traveling 55 to 65 mph on a motorcycle without helmets. We wouldn't be alive without a helmet--one saved our skull in a motorcycle accident nearly a decade ago. It may be perfectly legal to operate a motorcycle without one in Florida. But while legal, it's still not advisable or even sane to do so. This may not have been preventable, but it could have been potentially mitigated with the use of a helmet. You're already taking a chance just getting on one; at least cover some of the risk with some form of protection.
Urban Meyer on Guilford:
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Michael Guilford," UF coach Urban Meyer said in a statement released by the school's sports information office. "He was an outstanding, quality young man that was loved, respected and admired by all of us. His unselfish efforts on helping his teammates getting ready to play every week were only a glimpse of the person he was. We pray that God's blessing be with Michael's family, friends and teammates during this sad and difficult time."
We wish their families the same.