The Florida Gators had a dominating performance against Florida State, securing a 31-11 victory in Tallahassee. Montrell Johnson led the way with 99 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Jadan Baugh added 81 yards on the ground. The Gators capitalized on five fumble recoveries to seal the win, with DJ Lagway contributing two touchdown passes.
Coach Billy Napier celebrated his first victory over the Seminoles in three attempts, as the Gators finished the season strong with wins over ranked opponents like LSU and Ole Miss. Despite starting the season 3-3, Florida’s impressive November performance culminated in a decisive victory over their rivals.
The Gators’ defense was stifling, holding Florida State to just 79 yards in the first half and limiting them to 2.5 yards per play. Lawrance Toafili managed a 1-yard touchdown run for the Seminoles in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough to overcome the dominant performance by Florida.
Florida averaged 6.5 yards per carry in the first half, showcasing their offensive prowess and earning a well-deserved victory over Florida State. On the other hand, the Seminoles experienced a tough season with double-digit losses for the first time since 1974, highlighting the challenges they faced throughout the year.
Looking ahead, Florida will await bowl announcements on December 8th to close out their season, while Florida State’s regular season comes to an end. The Gators’ strong finish and impressive victories over tough opponents demonstrate their resilience and determination, setting the stage for future success under Coach Napier.
As both teams reflect on their season, Florida emerges victorious in the rivalry matchup, while Florida State faces a period of rebuilding and regrouping. The Gators’ momentum and defensive prowess were key factors in their success, showcasing their potential for continued excellence in the seasons to come.
