GAINESVILLE, Fla. _ Florida coach Jim McElwain said he let his emotions get the best of him Monday when he mentioned he and his family had received death threats.
"Well, I think one of the things for those who know me and people that kind of realize I'm a real passionate guy," he said during Wednesday's SEC teleconference. "And a guy there's obviously letting exactly what I tell our people not to do is allow one or two misguided remarks get to you.
"I feel bad sometimes for being open and being honest, and yet at the same time I've seen this movie and I understand it. If it gets to a point we'll go from there."
McElwain's comments made national headlines and drew criticism because he declined to provide details about the threats not only to reporters but later to school officials.
McElwain's reticence led UF to release a statement about its head football coach's refusal to discuss the matter openly.
To many, the comments also cast Gator Nation as a fan base lacking perspective and too concerned with winning. UF is 3-3 entering Saturday's matchup with unbeaten Georgia in Jacksonville.
"The care I have and passion I have for these players and this university and the fact we have an unbelievable fan base _ it's great, there's passion," McElwain said. "When you go into that Swamp it's something special, and our guys feel it."
On Wednesday, McElwain again declined to provide details on the threats, but said he would "when it becomes unmanageable."
McElwain said he ultimately regrets causing such a firestorm with his comments and has learned a lesson.
"I've got a lot of care ... for this program and these people," he said. "At the same time, allowing a couple of things get to you, you know what _ you can't do that. And ultimately that's the business we're in.
"We'll move forward and get ready to play this ball game."
