Andrew Spivey, Gentry Hawk, and Nick Marcinko preview Florida’s week seven matchup vs. No.5 Texas A&M with our roundtable discussion, where we discuss keys to the game and give our score predictions.
What are the keys for Florida’s offense vs Texas A&M?
AS: If the offense is able to get the push up front like they did against Texas, then this offense will have the chance to settle in. This will also allow DJ Lagway the chance to get in a groove.
GH: We finally saw DJ Lagway slowly find himself last weekend against the Longhorns, and we will need to see that again against the Aggies. If Lagway and the Gators can start hot on offense and develop a consistent running game, I think the Gators continue to find some rhythm and have some success on Saturday.
NM: My biggest question mark heading into this road matchup is whether DJ Lagway can stack weeks. He performed much better against Texas last week, but now we need to see it on the road against another tough team. In order to win a game like this, you need a few big-time plays from your quarterback.
What are the keys for Florida’s defense vs Texas A&M?
AS: Florida needs to stop the running game of A&M and force them to into passing situations so the Gators defense can go after Marcell Reed.
GH: Florida’s defensive line has been a major issue for opposing offenses this season, and containing Marcell Reed will be their biggest task yet on Saturday. In 2024, Reed recorded 13 rushing attempts for 83 yards and a touchdown in the win over Florida. Set the tone early and don’t like Reed run wild again.
NM: Containing quarterback Marcel Reed is the biggest key. The redshirt sophomore isn’t an excellent down field passer but can and will beat you with his legs. If you can limit the explosives on the ground, you give yourself a great chance.
Name one player you would like to get more playing time in week seven:
AS: Byron Louis. Eith Duke Clark out and Ja’Kobi Jackson likely out, I want to see Louis get more carries. He has the ability to make big plays.
GH: With Duke Clark sidelined this weekend, im going to pick KD Daniels for the second week in a row. I think Daniels can wear defenses out with his speed behind Jadan Baugh.
NM: Easiest pick of the year so far for me: Brien Taylor Jr. The defensive tackle logged 1.5 sacks and five pressures vs. Texas despite playing just 24 snaps. Taylor Jr. has a high motor with strength and speed from the interior defensive line position.
Other keys to victory?
AS: Start fast, the Gators need to get off to a good start and not let this crowd get into the game.
GH: If they want to win on Saturday, they have to start out fast and get a touchdown on the board early. It’s really the only option. The Gators have yet to win a road game under Billy Napier when they haven’t scored first and that’s a major problem.
AS: Texas A&M had 108,572 thousand fans at Kyle Field for last week’s game vs. Mississippi State. It’s important that Florida starts fast and takes some of that electricity out of the stadium. Lagway hasn’t handled road games very well to this point in his career, and that’s something to watch for as well.
Score prediction:
AS: 31-21 Texas A&M
GH: 27-20 Texas A&M
NM: 24-21 Florida