Nov 12, 2016; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Marcell Harris (26) is congratulated after he intercepted the ball against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the South Carolina Gamecocks 20-7. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Florida Defense Looks to Step Up Against LSU

Victoria Rossman November 15, 2016 College Football, Feature Sports News, Gators Football 374 Views

The Florida Gators defense is in for a big test this weekend in Baton Rouge. Florida will need all hands on deck to stop LSU and their running back Leonard Fournette. While the Gators have been dealt multiple injuries in the past few weeks, Florida defensive back Nick Washington talks about how the team will prepare.

Defense Looks to Fill Holes

The Gators have been dealing with quite a few injuries over the past few weeks, the latest being defensive back Marcus Maye. Maye is out for the season after breaking his arm in Saturday’s win over South Carolina. Washington says the team knows their young players need to step up, especially the freshmen. The Gators will look to establish themselves and stop LSU’s running game from the start.

Struggles on the Road

The Gators have seemed to hit some struggles on the road this season. After losing at Tennessee and at Arkansas this year, they will be put in another tough environment in Death Valley. Washington says while the home crowd is helpful, the team keeps a similar mindset going into every game. The goal is to leave each game with a winning result, regardless of it being home or away.

Rivalry Heats Up

The SEC rivalry between the Florida Gators and the LSU Tigers has always been strong. However, it seems to be even stronger this year. After the game was postponed due to Hurricane Matthew, multiple media outlets scrutinized the Gators, saying the team was too scared to play LSU.

So Florida had two different teams travel for games this weekend and is still hosting football recruits this weekend. Total cowards.

— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) October 8, 2016

Florida players say they knew these comments held no weight, as the status of the game was out of their control. However, Washington says they were slightly bothered by some of the comments, as many players, including himself, had families who were being affected by the hurricane.

Looking Ahead

A win over LSU would allow Florida to clinch the SEC East. They could also clinch with a Tennessee loss to Vanderbilt or Missouri. The game is set for Saturday at 1:00 p.m.

About Victoria Rossman

Born and raised at the ballpark! Typically quiet- until it comes to sports. I'm a South Florida native with a passion for baseball nearly as strong as my faith. Grew up in garnet + gold, turned out sporting orange + blue. Likely to be found with a camera. And yes, I take food pictures.