This is fun: SEC QB stats so far. Let's do rankings for Mertz (Preseason Last) vs. Milton. Completion %: 4th vs. 8th. YPA: 8th vs. last. QBR: 9th vs. 13th. Yes, small sample size, and "hooray I guess" for being middle of the pack. But, not the disaster predicted. And this includes a road game against current number 12.
Interesting stats on Tennessee with Milton versus Hooker at QB. The Vols averaged 4.2 gains of 20-plus yards through the air in 2022 but managed only one against UVA. They didn't look much better against Austin Peay either.
I watched last weeks Tenn game with AP for context. Their defence 'at times' looked really good. Their field goal kicker was lights out. QB had some decent runs. Not like last year at all. IF we continue our progress it should be a decent game for the good guys. I like that we have a couple of OL guys back and adding to the fun. Our speedsters are progressing too. Open the holes please. Mertz has done a good job too. A nice balanced attack would be awesome. Let's make the stadium 'SCe blocked kick loud!' Spread the word Go Gators.
Everyone actually attending the game needs to be serious and focused with defensive screaming. Just bring it nonstop every defensive down like Auburn a few years ago. The Swamp has absolutely helped the team win some close ones before - we need to help the team every way possible on Saturday. I suspect, given how important this game is and it being a night game, that the fans will bring it. I only ever get to attend 1-2 home games a year. This is Game 1 for me and I'm usually pretty good at rallying a section to get rowdier, so will be doing my part. Hopefully that spreads, but even more hopefully I won't have to do it at all if everyone will be on the same page with me already. When I was growing up and attending games more regularly back when we had a boatload of season ticket holders in the family, I was raised being told if you have any voice left on Sunday morning, then you did not do your job as a fan privileged to actually attend a game in The Swamp. So, do your job. Being able to attend at all is an honor not all Gators get to enjoy, whether due to finances or distance. Do it for them. Do it for the team. Do it for us all. No voice Sunday. No exceptions.
OK so I have my football cap on and offer this: WAYS to WIN Us UF fans should not forget there are many ways to win or lose games. I would like to remind the Gator Nation that DEFENSE may win a game, thats right defense. We have been so traumatized by defense (or lack thereof) for 3 years we may have forgotten defense can be a strength and actually win games. Statistically Austins defenses are coming up quite good. IMO coach Heupels coaching philosophy on offense is "go go go" hurry up offense and is all about momentum. Obvioulsy it's a great strategy looking at UCF and UT's recent success. But it's not invincible. A pick six, a few turnovers, some sacks - start to wear that UT defense out and pound that rock..................... That fast pace and momentum deal works both ways. Thankfully UF is at home. I believe it is time to start recognizing UF has a fast and talented defensive backfield. I believe the game will hinge on how that position group does. I'm putting my belief in Marshall and those guys emerging Saturday. Go Gators!
When I was growing up and attending games more regularly back... when tickets could bought on the street in front of Joe's Deli for $30. Yep, even for top 10 match ups. Best days of my life, back in the fall of 84. Oh yeah....
