By Kirin C. (Writer for @SSN_Gators)
The Florida Gators rolled past the Mississippi State Bulldogs in Starkville with a final score of 45-28. The Gators improved to 2-2 as the Bulldogs fell to 1-3.
The Gators started strong by converting their first 1st down in the first quarter of the season and Arlis Boardingham catching the first touchdown pass of the game making it 7-0 Florida. Mississippi State responded quickly as Black Shapen led a scoring drive in just three 3 minutes and 18 seconds making the score 7-7. Billy Napier was clear about his plan to play DJ Lagway every third drive and he stuck to this the entire game. Early in the second quarter on Lagway’s first drive Montrell Johnson fumbled, but the Florida defense responded with a stop leading to a punt. Graham Mertz proceeded to lead back to back scoring drives which made the score 21-7 Florida. The Bulldogs struggled to get anything going with several costly penalties and the Gator secondary playing well. Near the end of the second quarter DJ Lagway led a scoring drive 91 yards down the field which made the score 28-7 Florida. Mississippi State responded with a 6 play 75 yard touchdown drive in just 54 seconds (28-14). Both UF and Mississippi State ended up scoring two touchdowns in the second half. With a final score of 45-28 the Gators got out of Starkville with a win despite their defensive struggles.
Jadan Baugh and Aidan Mizell were two true freshmen who stepped up and played great on this wounded Gators team. Baugh carried the ball 4 times for 53 yards while Mizell recorded 5 receptions for 36 yards. Although this may not seem like much, Mizell had two monster touchdown receptions called back due to penalties. Graham Mertz and DJ Lagway threw for a combined 93% completion rate with 3 touchdowns and no turnovers. The Gators also had 226 yards on the ground and 3 rushing touchdowns. Despite the strong offensive production, the Gators struggled badly on defense. They allowed 240 yards and 3 touchdowns on the ground and 240 yards and a touchdown in the air. This was surprising as this Mississippi State team was held to just 24 yards on the ground against Arizona State and 66 rush yards against Toledo. This was also the most total offensive yards the Bulldogs have had all year.
For Florida fans this win does not necessarily change anything. Billy Napier’s team continues to prove that they lack defensive ability. Without two key red zone stands this game could have been a lot closer than it appears to have been. With a bye week on the way, the intrigue grows for Florida.
Kirin’ Grade:
Offensive Grade: A
Defensive Grade: D-
Special Teams: B+
Overall: B-
@SSN_Gators Grade:
Offensive Grade: A-
Defensive Grade: F
Special Teams: B+
Overall: B-
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