March Madness Sweet 16 2017: Likability rankings
10. Florida Gators
The Kentucky Wildcats tend to soak up the headlines in the SEC and rightfully so, but the Gators are the other championship level program in the conference. With the talent to make a serious run at the Final Four this year, the Gators may just get there.
With the top seed already out in their bracket, the Gators have Wisconsin in front of them. They’re low on this list simply for the fact that their game against Wisconsin is likely going to be one that’s hard to watch.
It’s just the styles that these two teams play. Neither of them are necessary unlikable either. There’s just more compelling stories remaining in the tournament than either one of these schools. For example, Oregon and Michigan are likely to be much more of an attractive game and story.
What does make the Gators likeable is head coach Mike White. The confidence he’s instilled in his team has been prevalent thus far in the tournament. It would be a signature moment for him to get to cut down the nets and help his team to get to Arizona.
Another great thing they have going for them is the classic gator chomp. Is there a better thing in college sports, than watching thousands of fans do the chomp? If the Gators advance to the Elite Eight, expect to see plenty of the chomp.