University of Florida
2013 Record: 4-5 overall, 3-4 SEC
Overall Record vs. Gamecocks: Gators lead series 24-6-3
Gators Head Coach: Will Muschamp 3rd season as head coach (22-13)
Florida comes in to Columbia playing the part of the walking wounded. So far this season the Gators have lost 10 players to season ending injuries, and have had 24 players missing playing time due to injury. If the Gamecocks can beat the Gators on Saturday, this would be the first losing season the Gators have had since 1979.
What we know: The Gators will bring in one of the best defenses in the country, only allowing 18 touchdowns this season and only allowing 278 yards per game, and 19 points. We also know that Florida’s offense has been terrible, only gaining 335 yards per game and 20 points. Back up starting QB Tyler Murphy has a banged up shoulder and might not play. This could mean big trouble for the Gators offense as they would look to RS Freshman Skyler Mornhinweg, who hasn’t taken a snap in his college career.
Players to Watch for the Gators:
RB Mack Brown- 432 rush yards and 4 touchdowns on the season
WR Solomon Patton- 481 Rec yards and 4 touchdowns on the season
WR Quinton Dunbar- 469 Rec yards on the season
What might happen: The Gator’s defense is good, but South Carolina’s offense has been moving the ball well this season, averaging 32 ppg and 456 yards per game. Look for the Gamecocks to once again use Mike Davis in the running game as well as in the passing game. Connor Shaw has been banged up the last couple weeks but the off week should have helped a little. Shaw might not be as mobile but USC’s offensive line will give him time to throw the ball. Look for USC to get the tight ends involved as passing yards will be hard to get against the Gators.
In the end the Gamecocks will prevail, but it won’t be pretty. If USC can keep the turnovers down and the special teams play smart, USC should be able to move the ball.
Prediction: Gators 15 Gamecocks 28
