Florida Game Preview
What can you say about Tennessee Tech? Tennessee took care of business. I guess the only real takeaway is the fact that Tennessee had trouble running the ball against a bad FCS team. That certainly doesn't bode well, although the Vols were without Jabari Small and Cooper Mays. Tiyon Evans played but only had 15 carries. We were able to see Jalen Wright, Len'Neth Whitehead and Marcus Pierce in mop up duty. The running back play was underwhelming but Hendon Hooker did have a nice day on the ground. He also had an egregious fumble. Even playing sloppy though, the Vols were still able to put up a 56-0 performance.
The offense has statistically not been great, especially passing wise. The Vols do have a nice average rushing the ball but most has came from Hooker and Milton the past two games. Even so, the offense has still scored at least 30 points in each of the first three games. Something Tennessee hasn't done since 2004. If Tennessee manages to put at least 30 on the Gators it will be the first time Tennessee has scored at least 30 points in each of its first four games since 1993, when they opened the season with five straight 30+ point games. The production has been a little lack luster, but the end result has been pretty good considering the history.
The defense has surprised many through three games. The rush defense has been very stout and the passing defense has been solid as well. Tennessee's defense finally grabbed some turnovers against Tennessee Tech as well. Four to be exact, including a Pick Six from Solon Page III. Tennessee's rushing defense will certainly be tested against the Gators.
Tennessee held Joe Milton out against Tennessee Tech. I do believe he will play this week. I think part of this last two weeks was making Florida prepare for both Milton and Hooker. We are right back where we were after Bowling Green. Hoping the lights finally come on for Milton and he can start hitting those deep balls. If Tennessee has any chance to win, this has to happen. I think they have a chance to keep it close with Hooker, but I think the only path for a Tennessee victory is for Joe Milton to play the game of his life. It's hard to project that he will consistently be able to do that, but I do think he will have some chances. Heupel has schemed WR's open on almost every pass play, even against Pitt. I think that will continue to happen against the Gators. The questions will be whether or not Tennessee can give Milton time and whether he can take advantage of it if he has time. I think Jacob Warren could be important early to give Milton confidence on the road. Velus Jones and Jimmy Calloway will provide opportunities down field. If Tennessee can have success passing, this will open up the run game. I think Milton could have a big day on the ground. I think Tiyon Evans and Cooper Mays will be healthy this week and that will certainly help the running game.
The defense could be in for a long day. Florida has averaged 336 yards per game rushing and almost 8 yards a carry. They even put up 266 rushing yards on Alabama. Surprisingly, Tennessee has only given up 54 yards per game rushing and less than 2 yards per attempt. This could be strength on strength but Florida poses a much bigger running threat than any of the first three teams on the schedule. If Tennessee wins this game, the defense will have played a huge part.
Florida gave Alabama everything they had last week. They left it all on the field. It would be impossible for them to replicate that emotion and energy. That's just human nature. They also have Kentucky next week, which they probably see as a bigger threat to them. (Sadly, this is where we are.) This is a classic trap game. However, they do get a boost with it being a night game. The crowd will be in it, although not as much as they were with Alabama. It's very hard to get up emotionally two consecutive weeks. I don't think Florida will play a great game. But I don't think Tennessee will play well enough for the whole game to take advantage of it.
Florida 45
Tennessee(+18.5) 28
In other games...
Notre Dame(+5.5) 27
Wisconsin 24
Oklahoma(-17.5) 42
West Virginia 21
Nebraska(+4.5) 31
Michigan State 29
Arkansas(+4.5) 34
Texas A&M 30
LSU(-2.5) 35
Mississippi State 34
Last week 5-1 (5-1 ATS) Overall record 13-7 (14-6 ATS)
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That's all I have for this week. Some decent games on the schedule. I really do appreciate everyone who takes time out of their day to read this and let me be a part of your pregame buildup. Thanks for reading. Cherish every snap of football. Tomorrow isn't promised. You never know which game will be your last.
Have a great weekend everyone. Stay safe out there. Go Vols and God Bless!