Earlier this week linebacker Mike Taylor told the media to pray for Eastern Michigan when the Gators hit the field. Saturday, it was apparent the Eagles would need those blessings.
The Gators defense had a dominant season debut, holding EMU scoreless, 65-0. This was Florida’s first shutout since Jacksonville State on November 17, 2012. The Eagles, who had just 125 total yards against Florida’s defense, had as many three-and-outs as they had first downs (seven), not moving the ball ten yards until the 13:14 mark of the second quarter.
The defense set the tone early, controlling the line of scrimmage and getting in the backfield throughout the day. Florida had 11 quarterback hurries and three sacks, the speed of the line leading to Eagles’ miscues.
“They are fast at every position and well-coached,” Eastern Michigan head coach Chris Creighton said. “It’s always a combination of miscues on our end and great play on the other end.”
Florida swarmed over the ball, forcing four fumbles. Gators freshman cornerback Duke Dawson also returned an interception for a touchdown — the first time in Gator history a true freshman has done so in his first game. Florida head coach Will Muschamp said they’ve always stressed causing pressure and getting turnovers wherever he has coached at, but ultimately you need guys that are able to take a shot at the ball.
Coming into this game, there were questions about the youth of the defense, specifically the secondary. Muschamp said the team is working on building depth through getting players like redshirt freshman defensive lineman Caleb Brantley reps early in the game.
“Again, I’ve said it along on both lines of scrimmage, are there issues as far as experience, absolutely,” he said. “Are there issues as far as talent? I don’t think so. I think we have some talent, I think we have some depth, guys just haven’t played much.”
The defense was also motivated to help the Gators’ high-scoring offense out by creating short times-of-possessions for the Eagles. Dante Fowler, Jr. said with the offense scoring it forced EMU to pass, allowing the line and secondary to take advantage.
Redshirt senior linebacker Neiron Ball was tied for first with six tackles and forced a fumble. Ball said the team prepared well for the offense and took pride in getting a shutout, making sure they stay focused on every play. After the past year that the Gators’ football program has gone through, Ball said tonight was big for their momentum into next week’s game against Kentucky.
“I really looked forward to this game because, I mean our last game in The Swamp we lost and then we had to go through winter workouts, we had to go through summer workouts, then we had to go through the rain out game,” he said. “It was very exciting, though, to get out on the field and get a win.”