To the surprise of many, the Florida Gators dealt a blow to Kentucky two weeks ago before the bye week. The world’s largest outdoor cocktail party is now taking place in Jacksonville. Ahead of them, the Georgia Bulldogs are smiling after a win over Texas and a terrible performance.

Three months ago, no one believed Florida would actually enter this rivalry game with any semblance of confidence. As 16.5 point underdogs, most people still feel like the Gators are inferior. But how will the 102nd edition of this heated rivalry end if both teams enter the game with wins?

Believe

From appearances and given the daunting schedule, many believed that Billy Napier would not last the season. But not only will he get through 2024, a few more wins could make the Gators bowl eligible. 30 days ago, many thought the only bowl that could flush the UF Fit eligibility.

Instead, the team focused not only on its coach, but also its starting quarterback. You can tell a different Florida team based on the interviews and body language. Dr. Martin Luther King said, “Faith is the first step when you can’t see the whole staircase.” A parallel can be seen in Gainesville.

The players believe in Billy Napier and their recent game shows that. Therefore, barring a massive collapse, he will remain head coach. Florida cannot be allowed to fall apart and some believe Napier will remain busy.

Nothing to lose

All the pressure in this game is on UGA. Carson Beck was already seeing his Heisman hopes suffer. A poor performance or even a loss will affect playoff chances. A two-loss Dawgs team might still make the playoffs, but what happens down the road?

Georgia would not only have to win, but win convincingly. Basically, it’s about knocking down your opponents. While it might not make them friends, it would secure them a spot in the playoffs.

Final prediction

Florida comes out of the gate shooting vertical passes from the start. While more than half failed to reach their goal, Lagway managed to get the ball on at least two 40-yard passes, one of which resulted in a score. Meanwhile, Jadan Baugh manages at least 50 yards and a touchdown.

Chimere Dike jumps behind a UGA defender for an easy score and hits two punts on the positive side of the 50. With Trey Wilson missing the game, Dike and Elijah Badger have to come up with a few big catches.

Trevor Etienne struggles against his former team as he puts the ball on the ground during the game. The lack of internal push against Carson Beck is hurting Florida.

Peyton Woodring also enjoyed his career day as he hit four field goals, three of which were over 40 yards. This helps Georgia avoid a furious comeback from the Gators.

Final result:

Georgia 33
Florida 30