GT Staff Predictions: Florida vs. Kentucky
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Jump inside below as the GatorsTerritory crew make their predictions for Florida's matchup against Mark Stoops and the Kentucky Wildcats.
Bender: The Wildcats registered just three points and 179 total yards against Alabama, but the good news is they will be squaring off against a Gators defense that has been average at best through seven games. UF has given up at least 24 points in five of those games and ranks 98th in passing defense; however, other than Joshua Ali, there isn't a player on UK's roster who has hauled in more than 15 catches on the year. Regardless of UF's struggles, you're not going to outscore Florida's offense with that type of production, while the Gators have a much more talented roster as well. Kyle Pitts is also back in the lineup, and considering this matchup is taking place inside the Swamp, there is a good chance UF covers the spread of -23.5.
SCORE: 45-21, Florida.
Abolverdi: It’s another early kick for the Gators, but I expect them to have the fast start they couldn’t muster in Nashville. With Kyle Pitts back in the lineup, Kyle Trask and the UF offense should have a successful day against a Kentucky defense that surrendered more than 60 points last Saturday in a 63-3 loss at Alabama. This game probably won’t turn out that lopsided, but it could be a confidence builder for the Gators defensively. I don’t think they will give up any big passing plays to Terry Wilson, but will have to stop the run against UK.
SCORE: 45-20, Florida.
Clarke: In a matchup that has been really tight the last few years, I don’t see that happening this season. As of Thursday, Kentucky announced that it will be without 18 players and 10 staff members Saturday due to COVID and contact tracing. Mark Stoops hasn’t announced who will be out, but word is that several starters are on the list. Also, UK defensive back Kelvin Joseph gave the Gators some bulletin board material by essentially saying he will lock down Florida’s receivers. I fully expect Trask to come out firing and UF to continue to put up impressive offensive numbers against what could be a thin Wildcat defense.
SCORE: 41-24, Florida.
Reynolds: This Kentucky offense is one that Florida's defense should be able to handle. UF is better at stopping the run than the pass, and the Wildcats will have to lean hard on their ground game. They rank last in the SEC in total passing yards and 11th in total offense. UK’s defense, though, may be able to give Trask & Co. a little run for their money. The unit ranks second in the SEC in interceptions (12) and total tackles (572) and will be able to challenge Florida's stellar offense. However, I don't think it will be enough to put the Wildcats into the win column Saturday.
SCORE: 38-24, Florida.