The top-ranked Florida Gators are very excited about the fact that they could have four key defenders, including linebacker Brandon Spikes, back for this weekend's game against the Georgia Bulldogs.

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.

"If they continue to work like they did tonight, they will definitely play in the game on Saturday," defensive line coach Dan McCarney said.

Some critics have called the Gators last two games (a 23-20 win at home against Arkansas and a 29-19 victory at Mississippi State) somewhat of a slide for a team that is supposed to be the best in the nation. However, missing three key starters on defense may explain the Gators lack-luster performances lately.

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 while Spikes injured his groin against LSU and played only a series the following week against Arkansas. He sat out Saturday's game at Mississippi State.

"He looked really good today," coach Urban Meyer said. "He probably could have played Saturday. He told us before the game he was ready to go. He hadn't practiced all week."

Florida could also have backup defensive tackle Justin Trattou available to provide some much needed depth to the middle of their defense. Trattou ruptured his left biceps tendon against Arkansas and didn't play last weekend.