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Rapid reaction: Florida survives overtime scare from Florida Atlantic
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Here are a few quick thoughts from Florida’s 20-14 overtime win over Florida Atlantic:
What it means: He might have been close to a heart attack on the final possessions, but Florida coach Jim McElwain becomes the first coach in school history to start his tenure with a 10-win season. The No. 8 Gators (10-1, 7-1 in the SEC) continue to limp toward the finish line, with three grossly unimpressive wins since the 27-3 victory over Georgia in Week 9.
What I liked: In the third quarter, LB Antonio Morrison forced a Jason Driskel fumble at the 50-yard line that was scooped up by DL Taven Bryan and returned 48 yards, setting up Florida’s first score of the game. Florida’s big-play man, WR Antonio Callaway, delivered with a 53-yard touchdown reception that made it 14-0. CB Jalen Tabor stepped up in the absence of CB Vernon Hargreaves III (stomach issues).
What I didn’t like: Florida played an absolutely embarrassing scoreless first half against a 2-9 team in The Swamp. The Owls outgained the Gators 299-252 for the game. The offensive line had its worst game of the season, with Harris brought down on three sacks. Just when Florida started to build a multi-possession lead, the defense gave up a nine-play, 75-yard scoring drive that cut it to 14-7. QB Treon Harris killed one Gators drive and gifted the Owls a touchdown with two turnovers. Florida’s kicking game was atrocious, with two missed field goals and a blocked extra point.
Who’s the man: With Hargreaves missing three quarters of the game due to stomach issues, Tabor (4 tackles, INT, 5 pass break ups) stepped up with stellar defense (save for FAU’s scoring drive).
Key play: Harris hit McGee for a 13-yard touchdown pass in overtime for the go-ahead touchdown.
What’s next: The Gators will look to finish with a perfect home record if they can defeat archrival Florida State.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
