In a highly anticipated Week 13 showdown, the Florida Gators will face off against the Tennessee Volunteers. This matchup is significant as both teams strive to finish the season on a positive note. While Tennessee”s hopes for the College Football Playoff have all but vanished, a victory over Florida could secure them a respectable bowl game, especially if they can also defeat their in-state rival, Vanderbilt, next week. For Florida, currently sitting at 3-7, the goal is less about bowl eligibility and more about spoiling the season for their rivals, including a final game against Florida State.
The Volunteers come into this game boasting the second-ranked offense in the country, led by quarterback Joey Aguilar. Tennessee has averaged an impressive 43.4 points per game and nearly 500 yards of offense, frequently executing explosive passing plays while also maintaining a potent running game. For Florida to have any chance of winning, their defense must effectively contain Tennessee”s dynamic offense and disrupt Aguilar”s rhythm from the outset.
A major concern for Florida has been their struggles against the run, having allowed an alarming 470 rushing yards in their last two contests. Additionally, they have shown a tendency to falter in the second half of games, which has resulted in critical missed opportunities to secure victories. Tennessee”s offensive strategy relies heavily on their running game to set up play-action passes, so Florida”s defense must be prepared for the Volunteers” fast-paced approach.
Both teams have experienced challenges with turnovers, but Florida”s issues have been particularly detrimental, ranking near the bottom nationally in turnover differential. In contrast, Tennessee has been opportunistic on defense, forcing 19 turnovers this season. Winning the turnover battle will be crucial in a game expected to be closely contested, with many experts predicting a narrow outcome.
Currently, Tennessee is favored by 3.5 points against Florida, according to the latest lines from FanDuel Sportsbook. The total points for the game are set at 57.5, with Tennessee”s moneyline odds at -178 and Florida”s at +150 for an outright victory.
Tennessee has not secured a win at Florida since 2003, a streak that spans ten games. However, this season presents an opportunity for the Gators to break that trend. The Volunteers possess one of the most consistent and explosive offenses in college football, but they do have a tendency to turn the ball over at crucial moments. Meanwhile, Florida has struggled in this area as well, ranking 90th in the FBS for turnover margin.
Despite their challenges, Florida”s defense has the potential to make this matchup intriguing. The Gators have demonstrated their capability to compete against strong teams, as evidenced by close games against Georgia and Ole Miss, and even a notable win against a top-ten Texas team at home. With nothing to lose, Florida could make it a competitive contest, especially against a Tennessee secondary that ranks 118th in the country.
