Jim McElwain tailgates with fans before Birmingham Bowl

Incoming Florida coach Jim McElwain tailgated with fans before Saturday's Birmingham Bowl.

Incoming Florida coach Jim McElwain was able to take in Saturday's Birmingham Bowl as a casual spectator.

Well, mostly casual -- he did confirm before the game that quarterback Jeff Driskel had been given permission to transfer.

But otherwise, he was free to take in the game vs. East Carolina, which Florida won 28-20. Part of that included a gesture of strong community building by tailgating with Gators fans before the game.

From Florida's official Facebook page:

Post by Florida Gators.

Post by Florida Gators.

Post by Florida Gators.

Looks like he even got snagged by a few Alabama fans. Florida fans will understand, right?

Post by Florida Gators.

- Mike Fiammetta