The Florida Gators kicked off 2020 with an offensive show last Saturday, can they have a repeat this Saturday as they host the South Carolina Gamecocks?
Entering 2020, the Florida Gators had many thinking they could win the SEC and/or be at least one of the teams that would represent the conference in the College Football Playoff, and after their performance against Ole Miss last week, those expectations seem to be pretty spot on. The Gators’ offense was unstoppable, starting with their run game, that ran for just under 200 yards, and had four players average over six yards per carry. But the obvious standout on their offense was the performance by quarterback Kyle Trask, who passed for over 400 yards and six touchdowns.
Now, the Gators defense was not as impressive, allowing over 440 yards and 35 points but Ole Miss is coached by Lane Kiffin, one of the best offensive masterminds in the country. So it is easy to say that Ole Miss’ offense could just be that good and that the Gators defense is just fine going forward this season.
Their opponent on Saturday, the South Carolina Gamecocks started their season with a 31 to 27 loss to Tennessee. The Gamecocks were in this one from start to finish, entering the fourth quarter tied at 24. The Gamecocks defense played valiantly but just was not well enough to upset the Vols, allowing nearly 400 total yards and forcing zero turnovers. And their defensive line was held in check for most of the game, getting only two sacks and one quarterback hurry the entire game.
The South Carolina offense, however, was impressive, especially through the air. While the Gamecocks only average 2.5 yards a carry, their passing attack led by Collin Hill, kept South Carolina in this one, as Hill passed for 290 yards and one touchdown. And ultimately, the two turnovers, which included a pick-six, would be a game-changer in this one.
Despite the loss, South Carolina played pretty well last week but will need to button down on all aspects of the game as Florida is ready to light up the scoreboard once again. Can the Gamecocks slow down the Gators? Or will the Gators offense have a repeat from their season opener?
Here’s how to watch and bet on the South Carolina vs. Florida game
- Date: Saturday, Oct. 3
- Start Time: 12:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Gainesville, Florida
- Stadium: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
- TV Info: ESPN
- Odds: Florida -17.5, O/U 57.5
- Live Stream: WatchESPN, Sportsurge
Prediction: There is still plenty of football left to be played but Florida is the real deal if that was not known already. The Gamecocks have something building and could pull off some upsets this season and finish better than expected within the conference. But this game will be too much and will be out of their reach for most of its entirety. Trask continues his hot start and gives the Gators win number two on the season.
Score: Florida 45, South Carolina 16
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