When it comes to college football rivalries, few match the intensity and history of the Florida Gators versus the Florida State Seminoles. The rivalry continues this Saturday, with the Gators carrying a 6-5 season record into the game while the Seminoles are holding onto a 2-9 record. As per BetMGM College Football Odds, the Gators are favored by a whopping 14 1/2 points. This could be a crucial turning point for both teams, with the Gators looking to solidify their position and the Seminoles attempting to salvage their season.
The stakes are high for both teams
Florida’s new coach, Billy Napier, is seeking his first victory against the Seminoles. With a 2-10 record against the Gators’ five rivals, this could be a significant game for Napier. The Gators, already bowl eligible after back-to-back victories against ranked opponents (LSU and Ole Miss), are hoping to end the regular season on a high note with a three-game winning streak. This would also provide a boost before national signing day. The Seminoles, on the other hand, are looking to somewhat salvage what has been their worst season since 1974 when they finished 1-10.
Key matchup to watch
The key matchup in this game involves Florida RBs Montrell Johnson, Jaden Baugh and Ja’Kobi Jackson against FSU’s struggling rushing defense. FSU ranks last in the Atlantic Coast Conference and 106th nationally, giving up an average of 180 yards per game on the ground. The Gators, who have only topped 200 yards once this season, could find this a favorable matchup.
Players to watch
For the Gators, keep an eye on DL Caleb Banks and Tyreak Sapp. They dominated the last two games, combining for 10 1/2 tackles for loss against the Tigers and the Rebels. Banks controlled the middle of the line with 4 1/2 TFLs while Sapp applied constant pressure from the edge with six.
For the Seminoles, Luke Kromenhoek is the third true freshman to start at quarterback against Florida in the last 40 years. Kromenhoek completed 13 of 20 passes for 209 yards and three touchdowns, while adding 31 rushing yards, in his first college start last week against Charleston Southern.
Notable facts & figures
– Seminoles RB Lawrance Toafili has 413 yards rushing this season and 1,852 for his career. He is 19th on Florida State’s all-time rushing list.
– Seminoles PK Ryan Fitzgerald and P Alex Mastromanno are finalists for the Lou Groza and Ray Guy awards, respectively.
– Florida is 4-1 with freshman DJ Lagway starting. Lagway leads all FBC QBs with a 97.3 passer rating on throws traveling 20 or more yards.
– The Gators have scored in 459 consecutive games dating back to 1988, an NCAA record.
In conclusion, this game promises to be a high-stakes, intense matchup between two historic rivals. With key players on both sides, a crucial coaching debut, and potential records on the line, the Florida vs. Florida State game is definitely one to watch. Regardless of the outcome, the game is sure to be a thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry between these two teams.
