Andrew Spivey, Nick Marcinko, and Gentry Hawk preview Florida’s week ten matchup vs Georgia with our roundtable discussion, where we discuss keys to the game and give our score predictions.
What are the keys to stopping Georgia’s offense?
AS: Florida needs to be physical up front and force Carson Beck into winning the game for Georgia through the air. I think the Gators defenders can cover the Dawgs playmakers if Beck has to throw.
NM: The key to limiting Georgia’s offense is stopping the run. Carson Beck finds most of his success off play action passes. If the Gators can win on 1st and 2nd down, they will maximize their chances to win. The Bulldogs do not have the playmakers they have had in years past. Ultimately, the Gators are going to have to win the battle at the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, which is not an easy task. Both Florida and Georgia rank top ten in pressures allowed this year.
GH: Stopping Georgia’s passing game and pressuring Carson Beck will be the biggest key for Florida’s defense. The Gators have allowed just 334 passing yards in their last two games, and it’s critical that this defense continues to improve in that area on Saturday. Make it difficult to have consistent success in the pocket and stop the run.
What are the keys against the 19th ranked Georgia defense?
AS: DJ Lagway needs to be able to continue his down field passing game that was very successful against Kentucky. If DJ is able to complete those throws then the running game will open up which will be key here.
NM: It’s going to be interesting to see how Georgia lines up to defend a Florida offense led by DJ Lagway. Kirby Smart hasn’t seen a Florida offense that’s been able to push the ball down the field vertically since 2020. The Gators are going to need explosive plays to win this game. If Georgia tries to take the deep ball away, I want to see Lagway effectively hit the underneath throws, where he has struggled to date. If Lagway can avoid the ‘freshman mistake’, Florida has a chance on Saturday.
GH: We always say how important it is that Florida’s offense starts out hot, but nothing compares to how important that is this weekend. Georgia’s defense is young and known for starting out slow while struggling to tackle. I think getting ahead early and grabbing the momentum quickly is the key.
Which player would you like to receive more playing time in week 10?
AS: Jadan Baugh needs to get the bulk of the carries even if Montrell is able to play on Saturday. Baugh brings a physical presence to the team that is needed.
NM: Give me Aidan Mizell. With Eugene Wilson out for the contest, Florida will need a wide receiver to step up and give them valuable snaps. Mizell is a special athlete that has home run ability.
GH: I want to see Aaron Gates on the field again this Saturday after his performance against Kentucky. Gates was flying around two weeks ago, and I want to see more of it.
Other keys to victory?
AS: Florida needs to start fast in this game in particular because the last few years this game has been over before the halftime. If Florida can make this is a four quarter game then I believe the Gators are in good shape.
NM: I have to agree with AS here, starting fast is the key in this game. This has to be a ballgame in the 4th quarter. Georgia has led by a combined score of 54-10 after the first half in two years under Napier. Make the game winnable in the 4th quarter.
GH: I’d like to see Lagway really control this game and make good decisions, if the Gators can do that, they have a good chance to score points. Florida’s success on offense will come down to how well Lagway plays on Saturday.
Florida is currently 16.5-point underdogs vs Georgia. Give us a score prediction.
AS: Florida 31, Georgia 24
NM: Georgia 27, Florida 17
GH: 31-20 Georgia. I think this game looks like Florida’s performance against Tennessee with the Gators coming up short in the second half.