Andrew Spivey, Gentry Hawk, and Nick Marcinko preview Florida’s week eight matchup vs. Mississippi State with our roundtable discussion, where we discuss keys to the game and give our score predictions.
What are the keys to Florida’s offense vs. Mississippi State?
AS: Florida needs to be able to protect DJ and allow him some time in the pocket. They can do that by getting the running game going early on.
GH: Florida’s offensive line struggled significantly against the Aggies last weekend, which led to multiple problems for DJ Lagway and Florida’s offense. We need to see Austin Barber and the rest of Florida’s offensive line let Lagway and Florida’s running game find their groove and finish drives.
NM: Florida simply has to play better up front. Against Texas A&M, the Gators allowed 14 pressures and three sacks while not giving sophomore running back Jadan Baugh much room to work. You have to keep a limited DJ Lagway up in the pocket vs. a less talented defensive front.
What are the keys to Florida’s defense vs. Mississippi State?
AS: When Florida is doing well, the defensive line is getting after the quarterback and shutting down the run game. They need to create pressure this week.
GH: The biggest key for Florida’s defense this weekend is stopping the run. If Florida’s defensive line can continue to bring consistent pressure, I have a hard time seeing Mississippi State score a lot on Saturday.
NM: Mississippi State quarterback Blake Shapen has been sacked 16 times this season and hasn’t performed well under pressure. When the pocket is clean, Shapen is accurate enough to beat you. Florida has to generate pressure against Shapen and make him uncomfortable in the pocket.
One player you would like to see receiver more playing time in week eight?
AS: Amir Jackson. I like his ability to make plays after the catch at tight end and that could be a key if the pass rush is strong against UF again this week.
GH: I want to see Amir Jackson get more playing time this weekend against Mississippi State after his performance last weekend. I think he can be a big threat for the Gators due to matchup situations.
NM: I’m going with senior safety Micheal Caraway Jr. He’s only logged 33 snaps this season but has played well in limited opportunities. He’s also executed on special teams.
Other keys to victory?
AS: Block out the noise, this team has heard the noise surrounding Napier all week but can they block it out and focus on the game.
GH: Score fast and score early. The Swamp is a different atmosphere when the Gators score first and get on the board quickly. The fans need to be in this game on Saturday regardless of troubled times.
NM: I think the biggest hurdle for Florida this weekend will be blocking out the noise surrounding Billy Napier’s job status. They’ve done a good job in that regard dating back to last season, but this will be a true test against an inferior opponent.
Score prediction?
AS: Mississippi State 27, Florida 17
GH: Florida 30, Mississippi State 17
NM: Florida 24, Mississippi State 20