Gators – Page 3 – Dug Jones

October 10, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Vanderbilt at Florida- 10/9/2021

The Gators performance against Vanderbilt was solid, not spectacular, just solid. The sports headlines and a 42-0 final score might imply otherwise, but the “progress” pieces are what really matters. Last week’s loss at Kentucky raised three concerns that Florida needed to address. This Vandy game was really about correcting last week’s problems. Some progress was made. Plenty still left to be addressed.

This week Florida reduced the number of offensive penalties by about half. The two illegal procedure penalties and three holding penalties are still too many, but didn’t bring the same drive killing impact we saw last week. Clearly, Vanderbilt is not Kentucky and a home game in the Swamp is different then an away SEC game.

Special teams play this week was an asset. In the punting game, Florida flipped the field by averaging a net +47 yards compared to Vandy’s +35 per punt. Toss in Jeremy Crenshaw’s 28 yard run (from the Gator’s own 27) on a fake punt and the punt game differential is even more significant. The Gator’s made all four place kicks and covered kickoffs well. Progress.

The third area for focused improvement was the level of offensive aggressiveness. Florida’s offense had been productive, but not explosive in games against SEC teams. This week, the Gators had seven plays for over 25 yards. In the Kentucky loss, they had zero plays of over 20 Yards. We saw a bit of a vertical passing game this week. The fake punt on the first drive of the second half (mentioned above) was another indication Florida might be ready to be more aggressive moving forward.

The Gator defense pitched a shutout, but was the beneficiary of three missed Commodore field goal attempts. In the first half, especially, there were missed tackles and assignments. Vandy possessed the ball nearly twenty of the thirty first half minutes and rolled up over 200 yards of total offense. The Florida defense was more focused in the second half, holding Vandy to negative rushing yardage and less than 100 yards of total offense. More work to be done in the weeks ahead.

Teams are rarely as bad as they seem in losses or as good as they seem in wins. The margins are often narrow. A few crucial plays, here and there, create momentum and shape the outcomes. Florida should feel better about themselves this week, but Vandy at home isn’t a tall task. Next week playing LSU in Death Valley will be a growth opportunity.

Last year, LSU was reeling when they came into Gainesville and derailed the Gator’s season. This year, LSU is still talented, but also still inconsistent. They’ve struggled on both sides of the ball in the run game. Head Coach Ed Orgeron’s seat has gotten hotter. The Tigers lost their biggest offensive threat (Kayshon Boutte) this past week and Florida benefits from a noon kickoff. Still, the LSU crowd will be the largest and loudest the Gator’s will encounter this season.

The outcome this Saturday will rest heavily on whether Florida can focus and function offensively in the noise. If Florida runs the ball effectively and avoids drive killing penalties, they should prevail. This game represents another opportunity for the Gators to better handle a tough away SEC environment and take a step forward.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: 2021, commodores, Florida, Football, Gators, SEC, University of Florida, vanderbilt, Vandy

October 3, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Florida at Kentucky- 10/2/2021

The Florida Gators struggled with poise in their first away SEC game and blew a golden opportunity to establish themselves as an SEC contender. In their 20 - 13 win, the still undefeated Kentucky Wildcats played just well enough to allow Florida to give away the game. Statistically, the Gators who always seem to struggle against Kentucky, weren’t bad. The problem, from start to finish, was penalties. Of the Gator’s eye popping 15 penalties, 12 were against the offense and killed or stalled promising drives. Clearly, a noisy away stadium in the SEC brings a set of challenges for offensive linemen. Three of Florida’s offensive linemen had significant SEC away game experience, but center Kingsley Eguakun did not. Several of the 9 illegal procedure penalties appeared to be the result of late center snaps with more than one Gator moving in unison before the snap. On a couple others, it was impossible on replay to see who moved early.

The most critical negative sequence for Florida came with 8:44 left in the third quarter and the Gators leading 10 to 7. Florida’s Tra’vez Johnson intercepted a Will Levis pass and returned it to the Kentucky 16 yard line. Unfortunately, Antonio Valentino was called for a “blind block”, away from the action, on the return and the Gators began their possession at the 31 instead of the 14. On third down and three to go at the Kentucky 24, Florida had a Damian Pierce ten-yard run called back for holding (on Eguakun) and ultimately settled for a 48 yard field goal ATTEMPT. The kick was blocked and returned for a Kentucky touchdown. Instead of a possible 17 - 7 or (at least) 13 - 7 lead, Florida trailed 10- 14.

Don’t tell the fire Todd Grantham crowd, but the Gator’s defense was solid again this week. Their “bend but don’t break” approach kept Florida in the game, despite Florida’s offensive problems, to the very end. Of Kentucky’s 20 points, only 13 came against the defense and 7 of those came on a Kentucky drive that began at the Florida 29. Notably, the Wildcats ability to convert the post-turnover short field into a touchdown when Florida failed miserably in a similar circumstance was the difference maker. This week, the fan criticism will be on Dan Mullen and his offense instead of on Grantham’s defense. It’s a what have you done for me lately world.

On offense, the Gator’s had nearly 400 yards of total offense. Emory Jones was more than solid. It was the inability to survive self-inflicted wounds (penalties) on virtually every offensive possession that prevented Florida from converting yards to points. The difference between great teams and good teams is that ability to survive tough breaks and tough environments. Florida isn't quite there yet.

The Gators will follow next week’s home game against Vandy with a trip to one of the noisiest stadiums in the nation. The LSU crowd makes Kentucky's seem sedate by comparison. Hopefully, Florida uses the full two weeks to better prepare for the crazy, loud environment at Death Valley.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: Florida, Football, Gators, Kentucky, SEC, wildcats

September 27, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Tennessee at Florida- 9/25/2021

Emory Jones’ performance the last two weeks validates Dan Mullen’s confidence in him and serves as reminders both that Jones has what it takes to succeed as Florida’s quarterback and that Mullen knows what he’s doing. Anthony Richardson will make important contributions, as Tim Tebow did in 2006, but this year’s offense is Emory’s.

While quarterback play and rushing yardage are today’s obvious marquee messages the more interesting discussion surrounds the steadily improving Gator defense. Sure, Florida surrendered over 400 yards of total offense. Yes, there were some missed tackles and a couple busted coverages (one resulting in a 75 yard touchdown). Continuing challenges ahead, of course, but It’s also important to notice the good things occurring and the strides Todd Grantham’s defense is making from week to week.

This week, Florida gave up 14 points to a Tennessee team that was averaging over 42 points per game and hadn’t scored less than 34 in their first three games. The Gators accomplished this without two of their three best defensive players (Elam and Miller). Freshmen started at both cornerback spots and were backed up by transfers who have been with the program for just two months. Gresham is substituting liberally to cross train and to keep players fresh. Very notably, the Florida defense has been better than last year on third downs, allowing conversions on just 35%. Only one defensive penalty this week. No guarantees moving ahead, but the defense is moving in the right direction.

Recent success in the Gator running game is attributable, in large part, to better offensive line play, but the Florida’s running backs have played a huge role, as well. The current three + rotation of backs has kept them all fresh, healthy, and able to earn additional yards after first contact. Each has a different running style, but all have been effective. At 6.34 yards per carry, the six Florida backs are among the nations best as a group. This week, the Vols’ defense came in allowing just 1.7 yards per carry and 54.3 yards per game, so Florida’s 7.1 yards per carry and 283 rushing total are impressive. Additionally, the backs have all been good with ball security (zero fumbles on the season) and in pass protection. Through four games, Gator running backs have 17 pass receptions. Really, a position of strength this year.

An away SEC game against the undefeated Kentucky Wildcats will serve as the Gators next opportunity for continuing progress.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: Florida, Football, Gators, SEC, Tennessee, University of Florida, Volunteers

September 15, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Florida at South Florida- 9/11/2021

For many, the USF game felt like an extension of the FAU game for the Gators. In both games, Florida played well at times, but also lost focus at times. There was never a moment in either game where the outcome was in question. Twice, though, the Gators have failed to maintain their momentum and limped home with solid wins instead of blowouts. Disappointing, perhaps, but a better problem to have than most.

The post-game superlatives are also similar. Florida piled up running game yardage in huge chunks in both games. Florida leads the nation in rushing offense with an average of over 380 rushing yards per game and nearly 8.5 yards per carry. In both games, the Gator defense was solid until the 4^th quarter when the younger players had opportunities to play. Florida has given up only 13 total points in the first three quarters of the two games with two of the scores occurring after Gator turnovers provided USF short field opportunities. Opponents have had just one sustained scoring drive in the first three quarters of games, thus far.

Both games were also similar in the eye-popping individual statistics amassed by Anthony Richardson. Combined, Richardson has thrown for 192 yards on 11 attempts (17.45 yards per attempt and 32 yards per completion). As a runner, Richardson has been even more prolific. He has 11 total carries for 275 yards (25 yards per carry). Excluding the 4 interceptions, Emory Jones has been solid, as well. He’s had 31 completions in 49 passing attempts (63%) for 264 yards and has run for 155 yards. Jones’ interceptions combined with Richardson’s amazing athleticism has fueled the “quarterback controversy” discussion for the media. Interestingly, the commonality for the Jones interceptions has been that, in each case, he wasn’t pressured. He’s played better when acting instinctively than when he has had time to overanalyze/reconsider decisions.

Contrary to what the game scores might suggest, the Florida defense improved from week one to week two. They allowed 3 less first downs, 70 less total yards, and 1 less yard per play. They also only allowed a 26% success rate on 3^rd and 4^th down conversions in the USF game compared to 36% in the FAU game.

The number of weapons in the running game has been impressive. Four different ball carriers have gained at least 85 rushing yards with three of them running for over 130 each. An additional bright spot this week was the emergence of a couple of additional receivers. Through the first two games, four receivers have caught at least five passes.

To maintain perspective, it is important to note that FAU and USF are not even SEC caliber teams, let alone Alabama. Still, with many new faces playing key roles for the Gators, the goal is to improve week over week and that has occurred. Without defensive leader, Ventrel Miller, and with a (likely) hobbled, Anthony Richardson, the odds of Florida beating Alabama are long. In any case, the game provides another opportunity to improve week over week.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: Bulls, College Sports, Florida Gators, Football, Gators, SEC, University of Florida, USF

September 5, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Week One- Florida Atlantic at Florida- 9/5/2021

Florida extended the nation’s longest home-opener winning streak with a 35 - 14 win over Florida Atlantic University. While the game wasn’t a blowout, the Gators were never seriously challenged by the Owls.

There were many bright spots, but this was an inconsistent performance in some of the ways you expect to see in opening week games. Too many penalties (9 for 91 yards), miscommunications, missed opportunities. Still there is much to build on for the Gators.

Social Media and the casual Florida fan will be attracted to a discussion about a manufactured quarterback controversy. The reality is Emory Jones wasn’t sharp, but handled himself relatively well in his first ever start. He ran for 74 yards and completed 63% of his passes. The two interceptions, a couple of delay of game penalties, and a miscommunication on a red zone play call were disappointing. Jones is talented and will learn from these mistakes

Anthony Richardson wowed the internet and fans with his athleticism and big play capabilities. He possesses truly amazing athletic gifts and creates highlight reel types of plays. His 73 yard touchdown run showcased great agility and foot speed for a man who weighs 236 pounds. One one play, he runs over defenders and on another he hurdles them. For this reason, he is a shiny object and many fans will fail to notice that he completed only 37% of his pass attempts and, excepting the one 36 yard completion, had only four total yards passing. Make no mistake, though, he has a great arm. He will become a more effective passer as he learns to check down to the (often) shorter open routes rather than selecting the big play option.

Last night, even with the two interceptions, Emory Jones’ 95 QBR was twenty points better than Richardson’s QBR of 74. Richardson will need more game experience before he is ready to truly challenge for the starting quarterback position. Eventually, there may be one, but there is currently no quarterback controversy. If you don’t believe me, ask Dan Mullen.

The discussion today, really should be more about improved productivity in the overall run game and about the added depth in the defensive line. The SEC is a “line of scrimmage league” and Florida made good strides this off-season to strengthen both the offensive and defensive lines.

Against FAU, the offensive line opened holes, stayed on blocks better, and enabled the Gator run game to stack up 400 rushing yards while allowing zero sacks. Florida converted on 63% of third down plays. With 12 offensive possessions, Florida only punted twice.

On defense, the addition of three new interior defensive linemen, via the transfer portal, provided an obvious improvement. Valentino, Newkirk, and Truesdale are all game-ready run stoppers that Florida was able to “plug and play”. To succeed in the SEC, teams must have six effective defensive tackles. The Gators are finally at this number. Stout interior line play creates opportunities for Florida‘s edge rushers and linebackers to do their thing.

The Florida defense was more than solid against FAU. 200 of the 353 yards surrendered in the game occurred in the last 12 minutes when the outcome was already assured and the younger players were getting playing time. For the first 48 minutes of the game, Florida gave up about 150 yards, no big plays, and zero points. The Gators had six sacks, forced two turnovers, and generally tackled well.

Up next, Florida needs to focus exclusively on the University of South Florida and getting better one game at a time.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: Florida Atlantic, Football, Gators, SEC, University of Florida

December 31, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Florida/Oklahoma Cotton Bowl- 12/30/20

In the 2018 Citrus Bowl, every Gator wanted to play. Michigan, on the other hand, had significant opt outs and struggled to compete. In tonight’s Cotton Bowl, the shoe was on the other foot. Florida’s challenge wasn’t only about the numbers with only 59 of 85 scholarship players available. It was more about who was missing. The Gators’ MIA list included the team’s top four pass catchers, the team’s leading tackler, three of the four experienced defensive tackles, and two starting defensive backs. The bright side is the number of freshmen and sophomore‘s who played significant numbers of snaps. The obvious downside was how disjointed Florida looked with only three bowl game practices to integrate so many new players.

In many ways, for the Gators, the game felt like the spring Orange and Blue game. There were plenty of dropped passes, many missed tackles, and lots of busted assignments. You also needed a printed roster to know who was on the field for Florida.

Despite the challenges, the Gators were in decent position with 6:10 remaining in the first half. Down only 17 - 10 with the ball on Oklahoma’s 17 yard line, Florida had an opportunity to tie the score. Instead, they failed to convert on third down, settled for a short field goal, and still trailed 17 - 13. Oklahoma scored twice in the remaining six minutes, sandwiching another Florida failed third down conversion (dropped pass), to lead 31 - 13 at the half. Most times this season, with a full roster, Florida scored last in the first half and first in the second half.

A number of the Gator absences, especially on defense, were due to injuries and/or COVID protocols, but others simply chose to opt out. For some, the risk of injury outweighed any benefit to playing. Kyle Pitts and Kadarius Toney are great examples. A few others might have improved their draft potential by playing. Chauncey Gardner-Johnson used that 2018 Citrus Bowl to improve his draft position. More than any disappointment with the players who opted out, I was impressed by the seniors who chose to play. Principally among them, Kyle Trask, Stone Forsythe, and Brett Heggie. At every step of his Florida career, Trask has subrogated personal goals for team goals. This is Leadership 101.

The Cotton Bowl provided an mini-showcase for the athletic capabilities of Gator quarterbacks Emory Jones and Anthony Richardson. Florida’s running backs and quarterbacks ran the ball for 250 yards against an excellent Oklahoma run defense. Clearly, the personality of the Gator offense will be different next year. On defense, Florida’s success will depend on the maturation of young defensive backs and how depth issues at defensive tackle are addressed.

Next up for the Gators is to close out the 2021 recruiting class with three more quality recruits and then address any remaining needs via the transfer portal. The next game is September 4th against Florida Atlantic University.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: Big 12, Cotton Bowl, Florida, Football, Gators, Oklahoma, SEC, Sooners

December 20, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Florida vs Alabama- SEC Championship Game- 12/19/20

Florida fans woke up today with mixed emotions about the SEC championship game and the 2020-21 season overall. Both ended in disappointment, but there was much to like along the way. In last night’s game, the Gators stood toe-to-toe and traded punches with the nation’s top team and program. Alabama sets the bar for the SEC and for the nation. When the season began, Florida would’ve been happy to beat Georgia, win the SEC east, and face Alabama in the SEC championship game. Even with these goals accomplished, the Gators know they left opportunity on the table in both the game and the season.

Florida’s offense lived up to expectations by refusing to crumble under a 28 - 10 second quarter deficit and then rebounding from a last minute strip sack that resulted in a 35 - 17 halftime hole. The Gators owned the third quarter (14 - 0) and won the second half (29 - 17). Kyle Trask, Kadarius Toney, and Kyle Pitts were especially impressive. Alabama head coach, Nick Saban, commented, “These guys have too much talent on their team on offense, with their quarterback who does a fabulous job. They have a really good receiving corps. 84 and 1 are really serious mismatch players. Both guys had phenomenal games tonight.”

On the defensive side, Florida had their characteristic struggles getting off the field in the first half. The Alabama success was fueled by 8 of 10 third down conversions, three enabled by Florida penalties. One third down stop was a Trey Dean interception that he fumbled back to Alabama on the return. On the other stop, Alabama converted a very short 4th down. The bottom line was the Crimson Tide never punted in the first half. The Gators were much better on defense in the second half, but yielded a critical long touchdown drive after Florida had pulled to within 7 points (38 - 45) with 6:33 remaining in the game.

From the big picture perspective, the Gators leave 2020 with the satisfaction they are relevant again in the SEC discussion. The loss to (#5 ranked) Texas A&M was away, early and a very winnable game. The LSU loss, on the other hand, was a painful reminder the Gators are still a step behind the elite level teams. The ability to win eight games, all against SEC caliber opponents, is special. Every week in the SEC is a battle. For many Gator fans, the biggest disappointment will be the missed opportunity with a truly special offensive unit. Had this group been paired with a typically strong Florida defense, this season may have ended with a championship.

A “New Year’s Six” bowl game (Cotton Bowl) against Oklahoma will provide additional exposure for the Gators. The game will also be a nice opportunity for the younger Florida players to gain valuable experience. Florida’s offense will lose some very special playmakers, but will return other playmakers with experience in Dan Mullen’s proven system. It’s important to understand the kind of job Mullen has historically done developing players. Kyle Trask and Kadarius Toney are prime examples. The Gators defense will add an excellent recruiting class to a number of talented, returning players. If Florida is able to add/develop quality depth at defensive tackle and improve play in the secondary, the defense will be improved in 2021.

The immediate next steps are to maintain momentum through the bowl game and to close out the 2021 recruiting class with three more quality additions in February.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: Alabama, championship, Florida, Football, Gators, SEC

December 13, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- LSU at Florida- 12/12/20

Anytime you lose to a 23 point underdog at home, there will be plenty of blame to go around. Many fans will focus on the inconsistencies on defense that have plagued the Gators all season long. Others, will agree with Dan Mullen who said “This one was on the offense”. Most games this season, a 51 yard field goal for Florida is automatic. Just not last night.

Every mistake and inadequacy is illuminated in last-second losses. The early season loss at Texas A&M was similar. Would have, could have, and should have permeates the post game analysis. Perhaps the biggest from last night's game was the Marco Wilson unsportsmanlike conduct penalty (for throwing an LSU player’s shoe) when Florida was in excellent position to win the game. Like the Malik Davis fumble at Texas A&M it occurred at the most inopportune time possible. Unlike the Davis fumble, Wilson’s action wasn’t easy to understand. I’ve written often about the challenge today’s athletes face with subrogating personal goals and impulses to the broader goal of team success. Older guys like me, struggle to understand the need for posing, dancing, and yakking after any minor on-field success. We hold our breath and look for penalty flags after every touchdown, interception, first down conversion, or defensive stop. Some officiating crews are picky and others aren’t. Last night’s crew chose to ignore LSU defensive back, Eli Ricks, when he backpedaled into the end zone to taunt Kyle Trask on the early game pick six. They couldn’t ignore Marco Wilson gaffe because the game clock was running and LSU may have wanted to run a play.

The reality, of course, is the Gators wouldn’t have been in position to lose this game if the offense had played with their usual level of precision. Three turnovers, one of them the aforementioned pick six, enabled and energized LSU. On their first possession of the game, Florida was stuffed on fourth down and goal from the LSU 2 yard line. They settled for a field goal, on another possession, after having a first and goal from the LSU 5 yard line. The Gators had 5 red zone possessions in the first half and came away with only 17 points. In the second half, after scoring touchdowns on their first two possessions, Florida managed only a field goal the rest of the way. Their last five possessions were punt, punt, punt, field goal, missed field goal. The Gators had plenty of opportunities to seize control of the game.

Defensively, Florida was their typical feast or famine outfit. In seven LSU series they didn’t allow even one first down. Four other series, however, they allowed long sustained drives for points. All year, when teams can string together a couple of first downs, they end up with a sustained drive and points scored. Against LSU, the most disappointing sequence occurred after Florida scored to take a 17 -14 lead with 2:41 remaining in the first half and then allowed LSU to retake the lead with a nine play, 75 yard drive. Similarly, the defense gave up an 84 yard scoring drive immediately after the offense had taken a 31-27 lead late in the third quarter.

This loss was especially stunning in light of the fact Florida has taken several steps in the right direction this season. The victory over Georgia was important. Reaching the SEC championship game, next week, against Alabama is significant. The LSU loss will take some of the shine off of this season. While most people understand this Gator team is still a step or two away from elite, this loss to a depleted LSU team is a painful reminder of that reality.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: Florida, Football, Gators, LSU, SEC, Tigers

December 5, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Florida at Tennessee- 12/5/20

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.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: 2020, Florida, Football, Gators, SEC, Tennessee, Volunteers

November 28, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

From Where I Sit- Kentucky at Florida- 1/28/20

The pregame questions for the Florida Gators might have surrounded whether the prolific offense could sustain momentum or whether the inconsistent defense could achieve some level of consistent play. As it turns out, the impact plays in first half were made by the Florida special-teams. The combination of an early, gutsy, fake punt, a beautiful Jacob Finn coffin corner punt, and the subsequent Kadarius Toney punt return for a touchdown allowed Florida to weather the precision of Kentucky’s well-played first half to regroup at half-time.

The Wildcats played solid ball control offense the entire first half. They owned time of possession by a wide margin (23:23 to 6:37), committed zero penalties, and had zero turnovers. By keeping Kyle Trask and the Florida offense watching from the bench, Kentucky gave themselves their best chance to beat the heavily favored Gators. The Wildcats weren’t great on offense, but they did take advantage of a short-field to turn the one Florida turnover into 7 points and held a 10 - 7 lead with less than one minute left in the first half. Without the Gators successful, early game fake punt conversion that ultimately led to Florida’s only offensive points of the half, the deficit would have been larger.

Florida's first touchdown was the result of Dan Mullen's gutsy fourth down and two call at his OWN 25 yard line. From punt formation, Dameon Pierce took the direct snap from the upback position and skirted around left end for 15 yards and a first down. Two plays later, Kyle Trask connected with Kyle Pitts for a 56 yard touchdown pass. The Gators failed to build on the 7 - 0 lead and lost momentum by following the score with fumble, punt, and punt on their next three possessions.

The sequence that flipped the momentum back to Florida began with a Kentucky timeout taken with Florida facing 4th down and 11 at their own 41 yard line and 1:20 remaining in the first half. Jacob Finn launched a 49 yard punt that pinned Kentucky at their own one yard line with 1:13 remaining. Florida made three consecutive run stops, the biggest on 3rd down with just one yard needed for a Kentucky first down. By using their timeouts after each play, Florida forced a Kentucky punt with 57 seconds left in the half. The Gators punt return team, using a trick play, returned the Wildcat punt for a touchdown. The net result of the last 1:20 of the half was that Kentucky, despite executing an excellent first-half game plan, went into the locker room trailing 14 to 10.

Florida, with the lead, momentum, and the ball to begin the second half, made good halftime adjustments. The Gators scored 17 points and held Kentucky to 18 yards of total offense to put the game away in the third quarter. Florida was content to run clock in the fourth quarter and Kentucky threw two interceptions and never reestablished any level of offensive flow.

For the record, the Florida offense, despite two turnovers and some general sloppiness, did maintain momentum. Trask’s passing statistics were good, but he wasn’t as consistently sharp as in many other games. Pitts returned from his two week absence with an exclamation point (5 catches, 3 touchdowns, and 99 receiving yards). Pierce averaged 8.4 yards per carry, caught 4 passes, and was the ball carrier on the fake punt.

The Florida defense also showed signs of improvement. Kentucky was held to 221 yards (only 62 passing) of total offense. The Gators had three interceptions and two sacks. Importantly, Kentucky’s longest play from scrimmage was for just 20 yards. James Houston's return was important as he led the Gators with 8 tackles, 3 of them for negative yards in critical situations. Admittedly, the Wildcat offense isn’t good, but Florida took an important step forward on defense.

The Gators travel to Knoxville next week to play the University of Tennessee. The Volunteers are in the midst of a disappointing season, but were open this week and will have had two weeks to prepare for Florida.

Published by Dug Jones in Sports

Tags: Florida, Football, Gators, Kentucky, SEC, wildcats

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