Dying

I have been sick since Tuesday and it's only getting worse. Not going to be able to make as many UF/UT posts as I'd like, and it looks like I won't be able to go to Knoxville for the game. :(

Anyway, here are some interesting notes on the game:

• The Vol offense is averaging just 13 points a game against the Gators since Urban Meyer took over.
• The Vols have not had a run go for more than 6 yards in the last two meetings.
• Urban Meyer will be going up against his third different Vol offensive coordinator in just four years.
• Vol QB Jonathan Crompton has thrown more interceptions (3) than completions (2) when facing third and ten or longer.
• Vol RB Arian Foster is averaging 7.8 ypc this season, the Gator defense is giving up only 2.

As much as it looks like this should be an easy win for the Gators, it is never easy in Knoxville. Lets take a look at the Gators' last five trips to Rocky Top:

• 1998: Gators lose in overtime on a missed field goal. Vols go on to win the national championship.
• 2000: Gators win on Jabar Gaffney's last second touchdown catch. I am willing to bet 90% of Vol Nation still does not believe that was a catch.
• 2002: Gators win big as Casey Clausen and co. fumble away the game.
• 2004: Gators lose on last second field goal. The field goal never should have happened as the refs mistakenly stopped the clock with 57 seconds left a couple plays earlier.
• 2006: Gators come from 10 behind in the second half to win 21-20 on a scoring drivelate in the fourth quarter.

The Gators have relied on special teams and run defense to beat the Vols in the past. You can expect more of the same this season. The Gators will have two or three costly penalties and a missed field goal that will allow the Vols to hang around until the fourth quarter, but ultimately they will prevail.

Gators 28, Vols 14.