Week one is finally here! The Gators are looking forward to running out of the tunnel to a rocking Swamp that hasn't seen full capacity since 2019. In fact, this will be the first game the Gators haven't played with a full crowd at home or on the road at all since 2019. Count on BHG to be rocking. What better way to start off the year than your Stadium and Gale writers coming together and giving you our Week One predictions.
Jake Moats (@JakeMMoats)
I fully expect the Gators to come out ready to play and knock this one out early. Willie Taggart is returning a lot of starters, and an experienced QB, but speaking on talent alone, this one shouldn't stay close long. I like the Gators to win this one big, and to be settled by halftime. Look for the second half to be full of young guys getting some reps. I'm predicting Emory Jones throwing for multiple touchdowns, running for one as well. I expect the defense to shut down FAU (and hopefully that becomes a preview of what to expect for the rest of the year). Gators 49 Owls 7.
1-0, lets stay injury free, and onto the next.
Conner Clarke (@CJ_Clarke1)
In their first game action since a disappointing loss to Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl, and their first time running out to a full stadium since 2019 I expect the Gators to come out juiced and ready to go. I think Florida will jump out to an early lead on the Owls and never look back. Emory Jones finally gets his time to shine as the Gators QB and should have an outstanding night both through the air and on the ground against an FAU defense that was one of the better units in Conference USA last year. Florida's loaded running back room should be a huge factor with everyone getting their chance to show what they can do, as Dan Mullen tries to get back to a more balanced attack than we saw a year ago. I also think the defense comes out with a chip on their shoulder feeling like they have something to prove after the subpar performance from the unit a season ago. Give me the over and the Gators cover in this one. Florida 51 FAU 13.
Anthony Beck (@AceWade1)
I have Florida winning 52-17 because I believe they’re gonna be able to run the ball all night long. Emory Jones won’t be asked to do too much, but he’s gonna make plays with his arm and his legs and be able to keep the defense off balance. We’ll see all 5 running backs and I believe Florida will rush for over 200 yards as a team. The defense will get a lot of pressure on N’Kosi Perry and force at least 4 turnovers and have at least 5 sacks.
Webber Herrman (@Webberherrman30)
Score: 49-13
The Gator's offense should come out and impose its will on the Owls early. I have a feeling Emory Jones will have a big first half and air the ball out in the first quarter to get him comfortable. The run game should take over in the second-half a little more with Anthony Richardson likely entering the contest when the opportunity presents itself. I'm looking for the defense to be dominant in the front-four and force a few early sacks and a turnover in the first half. I will also be on the look-out for better communication between the secondary, which will be tested by FAU's up-tempo offense. If all goes well, the starters should sit the second-half and get the younger guys some reps. I believe the Owls will capitalize on a few fields and a scoring drive late in the game to eclipse double-digits in the game.
Bobby Zinsmaster (@BZGator12)
It’s been quite a while since Florida has had a night game with full capacity. The atmosphere will be electric and the 2021 Gators will be looking to put on a show. The first quarter could be a little sloppy or slow as an offense and defense with new faces in key places settle in.
With that being said, I don’t expect this one to be close as Florida pulls away easily once they’ve found their stride. Lay the points with Florida.
Score Prediction:
42-17
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