Andrew Spivey, Gentry Hawk, and Nick Marcinko preview Florida’s week 13 matchup vs No.9 Ole Miss with our roundtable discussion, where we discuss keys to the game and give our score predictions.
What are the keys to victory vs Ole Miss’s offense?
AS: Florida needs to keep that same intensity they had against LSU where the defensive line played fast and with a mindset to get the quarterback down. This is going to be key against Jaxson Dart and this Ole Miss’s offense that’s really good.
GH: The key for Florida’s defense this Saturday will be how well Florida’s front four performs against Ole Miss’s offensive line. If the Gators want to keep trending in the right direction on defense, especially in the secondary, it’s going to come down to how well Florida’s defensive line causes pressure and issues for Jaxson Dart. Ole Miss currently has the 2nd ranked passing offense in the country, according to the NCAA.
NM: The biggest key to this game will be limiting the explosive plays from Ole Miss’s offense, who leads the country in 30 and 40+ yard plays while ranking in the top three in 50 and 60-yard plays. Your best bet against Jaxson Dart is to get pressure on him as he’s tossed for just two touchdowns and two picks under pressure this year. Dart is one of the best quarterbacks in the country with a clean pocket and will look to hit the deep ball often.
What are the keys to victory vs Ole Miss’s defense?
AS: DJ LAGWAY…. DJ is the key here, can he make Ole Miss respect his running ability in this game because Ole Miss’ defensive line is really good so Lagway’s ability to run could keep them in check to some degree.
GH: I think the key for Florida’s offense will be how limited DJ Lagway is on the ground. Having a dual threat quarterback under center adds a different element to this offense that the Gators could use this weekend. I also think Lagway being able to use his legs makes it a lot easier for Billy Napier as a play caller.
NM: Florida is going to have to limit negative plays on offense. That’s going to be a difficult challenge as Ole Miss leads the country in sacks (46) while leading the SEC in total pressures. The Gators will have to do a better job of avoiding penalties in critical situations. Billy Napier’s offense does not play well from behind the sticks.
One player you would like to receive more playing time in week 13?
AS: I’ve really liked what I’ve seen from Aaron Chiles this year and he had some big plays in the LSU game and his ability to cover will be put to the test against Ole Miss.
GH: I would like to see Myles Graham continue to get more snaps this weekend against the Rebels. Graham finished with seven total tackles against LSU.
NM: I’d like to see Florida get more pressure from their edge rushers. Freshman LJ McCray holds the highest ‘win rate’ among the Gators’ defensive line in minimal opportunities.
Other keys to victory?
AS: Florida has to be able to contain Ole Miss’ defensive line because they’re really good and can make things crazy in the backfield if Florida’s offensive line doesn’t protect.
GH: With this game kicking off at noon, I think it’s key for Florida to start out hot and cause issues for Ole Miss early. Turnovers will once again play a huge role in this game on both sides of the ball.
NM: The way to beat Ole Miss is to beat their offensive line (see the Kentucky vs Ole Miss game). Dart has been sacked 19 times this season. Get to the quarterback.
Florida is 11-point underdogs vs Ole Miss. Give us a score prediction.
AS: Florida 31, Ole Miss 21
GH: Ole Miss 34 Florida 27
NM: Ole Miss 34 Florida 17
These Gators 27 those Rebels 23