Florida used the same script Gator fans have become accustomed to in their 31 - 19 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers today. After trading early scores and trailing midway through the second quarter, Florida scored 28 unanswered points, bridging halftime, to take control of the game and then stumbled home. The Gators ability to score late in the first half and carry that momentum into the third-quarter has been an important asset this entire season. The Texas AM game is the only game Florida didn’t score the last points of the first half. The Arkansas game is the only game Florida didn’t score first in the second half. The Razorbacks’ early third quarter field goal was sandwiched among an otherwise uninterrupted 35 point flurry by Florida.
While each of these characteristics are evident in some way in all four quarters of every game, I attribute success by quarter in this way; the first quarter is preparation, the second quarter is talent, the third quarter is adjustments, and the fourth quarter is conditioning/depth. Clearly, this model ignores the impact of early-game strategic positioning and late-game prevent defense type circumstances. It’s clear, in any case, that Florida’s halftime adjustments throughout the season have been a major component of team success.
Of the goals Florida likely set after the Georgia win, some have been met, others, not so much. For the most part, the Gators have maintained good momentum on offense. They have learned how to attack defenses who drop eight players into coverage. Multiple players have contributed in each and every game. Turnovers have been kept to a relative minimum. Kyle Trask has managed the offense efficiently and with a minimum of penalties. Unfortunately, Florida has yet to develop the ability to run the ball with much consistency. Third down and three is still a passing down for the Gators. Most of the red zone offense are passing plays. Fortunately, Florida has proven they can pass successfully in almost any circumstance.
On defense, the Gators have made strides in a number of areas. It’s difficult to interpret the progress fully because fourth quarters have been played mostly by combinations including reserves and with safe leads. At points where the outcome is still in question, Florida’s defense has been, at many times, stout. They have also allowed intermittent sustained drives for scores in each game. The busts and missed tackles resulting in big plays that plagued the Gators earlier in the season have decreased. Still, the consistency problems make it difficult to believe Florida’s defense is ready for a team like Alabama.
The Gators have also accomplished, thus far, the goals of avoiding serious injuries and providing significant opportunities for game experience for the younger players. This will provide dividends moving forward.
Despite having some uncharacteristic dropped passes and selfish penalties, today’s Gator win accomplishes the important goal of winning the SEC east division and advancing to the SEC championship game on December 19th. Florida deserves to be proud of this accomplishment. It was 2016 when they last reached this milestone.