Five things to look for when Florida faces Kentucky

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The Florida Gators are looking to avoid their first three-game losing streak to the Kentucky Wildcats since the 1950s, but the boys in Orange and Blue will have to get the job done on the road.

It’s a tall order, but the Gators have already passed one major test by beating Tennessee two weeks ago. The Volunteers are generally considered to be a stronger team than the Wildcats, which means UF should have a chance to win a fourth game in a row.

Graham Mertz has been solid so far for Florida at quarterback, and the running game is the engine that drives that machine. The defense has taken a couple of massive steps forward, largely in part to a front seven that’s caused a ton of pressure.

That said, Kentucky’s defense can cause teams to deviate from the plan, which usually means turnovers.

Here are five things to look for when Florida faces Kentucky on the road Saturday.

Can Florida win the turnover battle?

Brad McClenny-USA TODAY NETWORK

The Gators have played a relatively clean game all year, turning the ball over four times in as many games. Graham Mertz has done his part, throwing just one interception and losing one fumble on a sack. Receiver Caleb Douglas and a reserve running back were responsible for the other two fumbles.

But Kentucky’s defense has a habit of forcing turnovers. The Wildcats have forced eight turnovers through four games, which is the 20th-best figure nationally. The flip side of that coin is that Kentucky has turned the ball over seven times, including five interceptions. Florida’s defensive backs haven’t had too many big moments this year, but this could be it.

If Mertz can play smart and continue to be a strong game manager, Florida shouldn’t have a problem winning the turnover battle.

How strong is the offensive line with three starters back?

Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports

Florida played the first half of Saturday’s game against Charlotte without a starting center, right guard or right tackle. Tackle Damieon George Jr. and guard Micah…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/five-things-look-florida-faces-193616537.html

Author : Gators Wire

Publish date : 2023-09-29 19:36:16

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