Last weekend, the Gators were trounced on the road against the Texas Longhorns. Now with their backs against the wall, the Gators’ bowl game hopes are on life support. With plenty of key players expected to return from injury, they should look much better. Against the Longhorns, the Gators were riddled with injuries, never standing a real chance. Now they must come through this weekend against the LSU Tigers. Sitting at 4-5, they must win two out of the last three to reach the valued 6-6. Taking place in the Swamp, the stadium will be rocking at 3:30. LSU opened at 4.5-point favorites, showing that experts predict a close game. After both teams got blown out last weekend, they will be eager to come out hot. The Gators’ chances in this affair will revolve around the health of starting quarterback DJ Lagway.
Eager to Rewrite the Narrative
In the last few seasons, this has not been the Gators team many fans remember. Ever since that infamous 2020 season, they have yet to have a winning season. Failing even to make a bowl game last year, fans were clamoring for head coach Billy Napier’s job. However, Florida Athletic Director Scott Stricklin set the record straight, emphasizing that Napier will return in 2025. Now with their backs against the wall, the Gators will be eager to avoid another losing season. Before the Texas game, this had looked like a much-improved team. Losing in heartbreaking fashion to both Tennessee and Georgia, they could easily have six wins by now. With injuries to quarterbacks Graham Mertz and Lagway playing a big role, they have had plenty of misfortune this season. Despite all the injuries, they continue to compete, which bodes well for the culture of Napier’s program.
Rely on Defense?
Again, ignoring the Texas game due to the large number of injuries, this defense has been a pleasant surprise. Keeping the Gators in close games, they have been relentless, making life hell for opposing quarterbacks. Even intercepting Georgia quarterback Carson Beck three times, all three levels of the defense have played valiantly. After the first bye week, defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong has this team playing passionate football. With young players making plays, the future is bright for this side of the football. Underclassmen such as Aaron Gates and Sharif Denson will be leaned on heavily. With some injuries in the defensive backfield, more pressure may be shifted onto the defensive line. Led by junior Jack Pyburn, the key will be the pass rush. LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has the ability to make a defense pay when given too much time in the pocket.
Injury News
All reports will be centered on the health of rising star quarterback DJ Lagway. Knocked out with a hamstring injury in the Georgia game, the Gators went on to lose a close one. He was heavily missed, as before his departure, Florida was up 10-3 with possession. The weekend after, the Gators were absolutely throttled against the Texas Longhorns. Missing a multitude of key players in that matchup, the final score wasn’t a complete shock. Hoping to return many of their missing players, this will be a different-looking team this upcoming weekend. Although starting cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. is out for the season, fans are hoping to get the other starter, Devin Moore back. With receiver Elijhah Badger and running back Montrell Johnson Jr. possibly returning, Florida should be back near full strength. With their backs against the wall, expect many of the Gators players to power through injuries.
LSU Reeling?
After appearing to be a force in the SEC race, the LSU Tigers have dropped two straight games. With the second coming at home against the Alabama Crimson Tide, the Tigers’ playoff dreams are on life support. However, the Tigers still have something to play for. With the SEC beginning to cannibalize itself, there is still a slim shot to make the SEC Championship. Don’t expect the Tigers to simply roll over after a rough couple of games. Now sitting at 6-3, they will be hungry to earn a bounce-back victory over their rival. Head coach Brian Kelly has often struggled to truly break through while at LSU. However, with a talented quarterback and a dangerous receiver room, this offense can compete with anyone. Defensively, after losing star linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. to injury, they have been a bit vulnerable. This could have the making of a shootout in the Swamp.
Final Thoughts
Quite frankly, this is a must-win for both storied programs. Both coming off embarrassing losses, one team has the chance to right their season. For LSU, they found themselves right in the middle of the playoff race two games ago. Dropping games to Texas A&M and Alabama, the playoffs are now out of reach from an at-large perspective. Still playing for a small chance at the SEC Championship, the Tigers season is far from over. For the Gators, it’s simple, their backs are currently against the wall. They must win two out of their last three games to qualify for a bowl game. In his first two seasons, Napier finished with back-to-back losing records. Hoping to avoid another, this is one the Gators must have. Playing inspired football, this team has shown improvements. With Lagway likely to play, I like the Gators to squeak one out in the Swamp.
Prediction: Florida 27 LSU 21
