Gainesville, FL — Coming into this game, questions loomed over whether Florida’s freshman quarterback DJ would return to form after suffering a hamstring injury during the Florida-Georgia clash that sidelined him against Texas. Meanwhile, LSU, reeling from a decisive loss to Alabama in Baton Rouge, looked to rebound and salvage their season. With both teams desperate for redemption, this SEC showdown delivered a thrilling four quarters of football.
First Half Recap:
The opening quarter saw Florida’s defense assert itself early. LSU’s first drive stalled at midfield after a jet sweep attempt was stuffed by Gators’ defensive back #27 Johnson. On the ensuing possession, Florida overcame early penalties, with DJ settling into rhythm. A pinpoint 23-yard touchdown pass to #6 Badger capped off a 5-play, 80-yard drive, giving the Gators a 7-0 lead.
LSU answered late in the second quarter, orchestrating a methodical 14-play, 84-yard drive. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier connected with #1 Anderson for a 29-yard touchdown to tie the game at 7-7.
Florida regained the lead just before halftime with a 49-yard field goal from kicker #38, entering the breakup 10-7.
Second Half Drama:
The Tigers opened the second half aggressively, leaning on a mix of short passes and strong runs. However, Florida’s defense held firm, forcing LSU to settle for a 39-yard field goal to tie the game at 10-10.
In the fourth quarter, DJ rose to the occasion. With the Gators pinned deep in their territory, the freshman quarterback orchestrated an electric drive, highlighted by a 54-yard pass to #24 Jackson and a 1-yard rushing touchdown. The Gators reclaimed the lead, 20-13, igniting the home crowd.
LSU tried to mount a comeback, with Nussmeier leading the Tigers deep into Florida territory. A series of costly penalties and sacks thwarted their momentum, and they settled for another field goal, cutting the lead to 20-16.
On the ensuing drive, Florida delivered the knockout blow. Jaden Baugh broke free for a 55-yard touchdown run, extending the Gators’ lead to 27-16 with less than two minutes remaining.
Defense Seals the Deal:
Florida’s defense which started off shacky early in the season has come into its own. And tonight backed by the deafening home crowd, they dominated LSU’s final drive. Defensive edge #94 Sapp, sacked Nussmeier twice, forcing the Tigers into desperation mode. On fourth down, a pass breakup by #6 James secured the win for the Gators, sending fans into a frenzy.
Despite winning the time of possession battle, 41:13 to 18:17, and running more than double the plays of Florida, 93 plays to 42, UF’s Lagway’s explosive plays and the tireless defense of Florida proved they have possible found their own way to win.
A Much-Needed Win
The Gators improved to 5-5 on the season, keeping their bowl hopes alive. DJ’s return inspired confidence, in the crowd, defense and offense. With 339yds of offense and 0 turnovers, with 7 sacks. Florida dragged the Tigers into deep water and finished them.
Florida head coach Billy Napier praised the fan for their energy because throughout the night “that place was electric tonight and played a major factor in the game… the kids feed off of it”
With the win, the Gators look to carry their momentum into next week as they seek to be bowl eligible. For LSU, the loss marks a missed opportunity to bounce back, as their season continues to unravel and this potentially pushes them out of the top 25.
Final Score: Florida 27, LSU 16
