Problem #2: Florida may be down 3 defensive starters tonight. Brandon Spikes re-aggravated his groin injury last week and Arkansas’ Dennis Johnson rushed for over 100 yards.

 

Problem #3: The Dan Mullen Factor. Florida goes head-to-head against the former offensive coordinator.

 

Problem #4: Focus. Last week Florida dropped passes and lost four fumbles. The offensive line didn’t protect Tebow or create the holes for the backs they needed.

 

Problem #5: History. Perhaps the most intriguing issue… Florida hasn’t won in Starkville since 1985. The latest lost (2004) was followed by the firing of Ron Zook just days later.

 

…So what does all this mean? Hopefully nothing. Florida has the depth, talent, heart, motivation and maturity to overcome all of the problems we’ve seen this year and it needs to happen tonight. Last week we saw Florida win and still give up the #1 spot in the AP poll. Bad sign. Florida needs a solid win that shifts momentum back in their favor and establishes them as the undisputed best team in the country. When Florida is firing on all cylinders I don’t think it’s even close; but Florida hasn’t done that since the first half of the Kentucky game.

 

Tonight look for a concerted effort to get the running game back on track. This is going to take a big effort by the offensive line and more focus from the ball carriers in finding the holes and holding onto the ball. Earlier in the season Florida’s stacked backfield couldn’t be stopped but has been flat the last couple of weeks. Also look for Florida to attempt to open up the air game. Everyone knows that the Gators don’t have the talent and depth at the wide-out position that was expected coming into the season, but couple Aaron Hernandez and Riley Cooper’s deep routes with Tim Tebow’s run threat and Florida should be putting up the dominant numbers fans are accustomed to.

 

Florida hasn’t played to their potential in a while and they know it. Tonight they take it personal and get mean. Forget conservative play. Forget not showing your hand. This evening we’ll see the Fighting Gators look like the team everyone has been waiting to see this year.

 

Half Time Score: Florida 31 – MSU 7

Final Score: Florida 48 – MSU 13