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The SEC decided to retain the Florida football-LSU rivalry for at least two more years after scrapping divisions when it expanded to 16 teams in 2024.
When the Florida Gators (4-5, 2-4 SEC) host the No. 22 Tigers (6-3, 3-2 SEC) at The Swamp on Saturday (3:30 p.m., ABC), the matchup will feature two reeling teams in desperate need of a win.
Both Florida and LSU have lost two in a row, with the Gators coming off a 49-17 loss at Texas and the Tigers coming off a 42-13 home loss to No. 9 Alabama.
Florida football coach Billy Napier and LSU coach Brian Kelly are both in their third seasons at their respective programs, with Kelly holding a 2-0 edge in the head-to-head matchups.
“LSU, as usual, has a good football team,” Napier said. “I think they’re talented. Had their ups and downs throughout the season. Coach Kelly runs a good program.”
Both teams have something to play for. LSU can still reach the SEC title game with three straight wins. Florida, meanwhile, needs to win two of its last three to become bowl eligible.
Napier, who coached four seasons at Louisiana from 2018-21 before being hired at UF, is aware of the problems that LSU presents from a speed and athleticism standpoint.
“A ton of athletes in that state,” Napier said. “Having spent four years there, recruited five years at Alabama, recruited that state, very familiar with that place, has a ton of history and tradition, and certainly multiple coaches that have won national championships. So you know you’re going to be going against elite talent and obviously a well-coached team with BK,
Here are five storylines to watch for Florida to watch in its game against the Tigers:
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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/qb-dj-lagways-return-among-171539036.html
Author : The Gainesville Sun
Publish date : 2024-11-15 17:15:39
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