Andrew Spivey, Gentry Hawk, and Nick Marcinko preview Florida’s Week 2 matchup vs Campbell with our roundtable discussion, where we discuss keys to the game and give our score predictions.
What is the biggest thing you want to see Florida clean up against Campbell before heading to Auburn?
AS: I want to see the defense come out with an edge about them and play with some energy. They can’t allow teams to move the ball against them like FAU did.
GH: The biggest thing I want to see get cleaned up against Campbell are the snaps from Harrison Moore. Against FAU, Moore had five bad snaps and that can’t continue to be a problem when this team reaches conference play.
NM: Florida seemed to be playing off its back foot a lot against FAU’s up-tempo offense. I want to see them play with more aggression in coverage and in the pass rush. The communication and awareness need to improve as well.
Which young player or newcomer are you most interested in watching against Campbell?
AS: I want to see what Evan Pryor can do after he missed most of week 1.
GH: I’m most interested in seeing how well KJ Ford performs on Saturday as the freshman is likely to see the field more in Week 2. Ford recorded 11 total snaps against FAU.
NM: I’m ready to see freshman quarterback Will Griffin make his first collegiate appearance. Jon Sumrall said Griffin would have gone in last week if Florida had one more drive. Given another drop-off in competition, I’m expecting Griffin to get a series or two late in the game. He’s got a live arm, and the Gators’ staff probably won’t hold back when he’s in.
Junior offensive tackle Eagan Boyer is also expected to play in Week 2. He could be another option for Florida down the stretch.
What position group has the most to prove this week?
AS: The defensive line. They need to get a pass rush in a major way after last week’s disappointment.
GH: Florida’s front seven will have the most to prove this weekend after not having their best performance against FAU. I want to see this group play with more awareness and get off the field on third down.
NM: The defensive line has the most to prove. They didn’t win a ton at the line of scrimmage against FAU. They have talent across the defensive line, and they should be able to take advantage of inferior opponents.
Who is your breakout player for Florida against Campbell?
AS: Jayden Woods. I think he has a huge game.
GH: After struggling in his first game as a Florida Gator, I’m picking Micah Mays Jr. to have a bounce back performance against the Camels this weekend. We heard a lot of good things about Mays Jr. this offseason and I think we will see why on Saturday.
NM: Sophomore wide receiver Dallas Wilson goes for 100-plus yards.
How long should Florida’s starters play against Campbell?
AS: I think you see them play one series at least in the third quarter depending on the score. This team still needs a lot of snaps together to grow.
GH: I think Florida’s starters should come out around the start of the second half depending on how well Florida is playing going into halftime. The Gators don’t need anymore injuries after losing Eric Singleton Jr. for a limited time.
NM: Similar to last week, I expect Florida to be rotating early and often against Campbell. I can’t envision Florida’s starters playing much longer after halftime. The Gators won’t have issues scoring the football no matter who is in the game. It’s a good opportunity to get freshmen some reps.
What’s your final score prediction?
AS: 49-3 Florida
GH: 58-6 Florida
NM: 62-7 Florida