A Quick Preview: LSU Tigers at Florida Gators
The third definition for “offense” on the Merriam-Webster website has to do with the offensive players on a team. The first two probably fit Florida and LSU better. They include “an act of stumbling,” “a cause or occasion of sin,” and “something that outrages the moral of physical senses.” Ugh, ugh, and…oh yeah…ugh.
Before you get too excited by the standings – the Gators and Tigers are currently atop their respective divisions in the SEC – take a look at the offensive numbers. Florida ranks 84th in the nation in total yards and a not-all-that-bad-but-still-slightly-painful 46th in points scored. LSU comes in at 91st in yards and 83rd in points. The Gators rank 9th in the SEC in yards, the Tigers 11th. One more time, say it with me…UGH!
Both of these teams have more talent than 90% of the teams across the country. They rule the recruiting world consistently and have four of the last seven national championships between them. They are a combined 9-1 with that one loss coming to the nation’s top team. Yet their fans are worried, shocked, and sometimes outright disgusted.
They want more from the offenses. Much more. Enough to make them not get nervous about practically every game they play. Enough to make them have faith the coaches actually have a system in place that consistently works instead of a wing it attitude. Enough to make them truly believe they are contenders.
John Brantley has yet to amaze. He’s been up and down throughout the season and currently has a rating of 123.2. Not to worry, that’s light years better than Jordan Jefferson’s. 88.0. Both of these quarterbacks can play better. One will in this game. That is if he isn’t held back by his offense. If either is unleashed, they could show what they are really capable of. No one is sure either will get that chance anytime soon though.
One team holds the advantage in terms of defensive production so far this season. And it might not be who you think. The Gators offense has been the backbone of the team this year. It has performed admirably in every game (yes, even against Alabama despite the final score) and will carry Florida throughout the rest of the season. The Tigers defense has too, and statistically it’s been better. LSU is sixth in the nation in yards allowed and fifth in points. The Gators are good, the Tigers are slightly better. All indications point to this being a low scoring affair.
But that’s okay. I won’t beat a dead horse, but this is where you say out loud that phrase that begins with “just” and ends with “win.” The Tigers have just won five games this year. The Gators couldn’t manage that in their last outing. Every game is a must-win so we no longer use that statement around these parts, but this is it. LSU’s schedule doesn’t get any easier, but Florida’s actually might. The Tigers need the win to stay in contention. The Gators need the win to get back on track.
We’ll be there in all our glory bright and early tomorrow morning in anticipation of the continuation of the rivalry. See you there and, of course, Go Gators!