Florida heads into Death Valley in Week 3 to take on LSU after a shocking loss to USF in Week 2. Billy Napier and his team have faced heavy criticism after the loss, yet the Gators‘ season is still far from over.
With one of the best quarterbacks in the SEC in DJ Lagway and a solid defense, the Gators should be able to give the Tigers a run for their money.
Here are five reasons why the Gators have an actual shot of pulling off the upset against LSU.
1. Good Run Defense Stalling the LSU Ground Game
Throughout the first two games of the season, Florida’s run defense has been fantastic, only allowing 4.4 yards per rush. LSU has shown they are more than capable of winning games, but its ground attack has not been dominant. Florida could easily flip this game if it makes the Tigers one-dimensional and stops the run, especially early.
2. Secondary Showing Signs of Growth
The Gators’ front seven has taken most of the early headlines, but the Florida secondary has been somewhat under the radar. Florida has brought back a majority of their secondary, which seems to have improved based on the first two weeks of play.
Safeties Bryce Thornton and Jordan Castell are both returning starters and could be X factors as they have previous experience in big games.
3. DJ Lagway’s Accuracy and Poise under Pressure
DJ Lagway has completed over 70% of his passes in the first two games of action for the Gators. LSU should bring pressure, but Lagway’s mechanics and decision-making can help Florida move the ball forward.
If Lagway continues to limit turnovers and keep the LSU defense on the field, then the Gators will be in a very good spot to pull the upset off.
Read more: DJ Lagway Transfer Portal: Insider Weighs In on QB’s Role in Potential Billy Napier Firing
4. Weaknesses of LSU in the Offensive Line
The LSU offensive line has struggled through the first two games of the season, which could be a recipe for disaster with a dangerous Gator front seven on the other side. If the struggles continue up front, Garret Nussmeier’s limited time in the pocket could help Florida force turnovers and create pressure.
5. Florida Motivation and Roster Depth After USF Loss
Following a terrible defeat to USF in Week 2, Florida is under strict scrutiny. Coach Billy Napier has promised to make adjustments to play calling and execution in an attempt to demonstrate that the program has potential beyond the preseason hype.
The Florida roster is deep enough, particularly on the defensive side, to make the right adjustments to stay in this game. Now it will be up to the team to prove everyone wrong, or get bounced out of playoff contention in September.
Bottom Line
The Florida defense gives Billy Napier and his team a chance. If they can stop the run and limit explosive passes, then LSU’s offense will stay pretty limited. All the Gators would need from there is DJ Lagway to make some plays down the stretch, and Florida would be marching out of Death Valley with a win.
Read More:
Brian Kelly Gets 100% Real on Billy Napier’s Struggles at Florida Following USF Blowout Loss
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