Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) runs for a first down past Missouri linebacker Dameon Wilson (10), linebacker Ty'Ron Hopper (8) and defensive lineman Isaiah McGuire (9) on a fourth and two play during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Gators v. LSU Preview

The Gators had a successful homecoming week, beating the Missouri Tigers 24-17. This is the Gators’ first SEC win of the season, and they look to start a streak with Saturday’s matchup against the LSU Tigers in the Swamp.

In Monday’s press conference, Gators head coach Billy Napier shared his thoughts on Saturday’s game against the Tigers.

Florida Gators

The Gators were once at the bottom of the SEC East conference and are now ranked fifth after their win over Missouri. A significant factor in their success, however, was the surprising performance of redshirt sophomore cornerback Jaydon Hill.

This game was an important career milestone for Hill, as he missed last season because of a knee injury and had another knee injury this preseason. Hill had two interceptions and a 49-yard pick-six that helped the Gators become the game leaders. Due to his performance, he was named the SEC’s defensive player of the week.

Significant contributions from the defense and the running game helped the Gators win this game. Florida’s offense ran 32 times for 231 yards and a touchdown, and the defense intercepted Brady Cook twice.

The team has had its ups and downs during the season, but Napier said he is hopeful the team is progressing positively due to Saturday’s performance. This is what he says about his overall thoughts on the team’s efforts in the Missouri game:

LSU Tigers

Despite having a 4-2 record going into the game, LSU is coming off a humbling 40-13 home loss to the No. 8 Tennessee Volunteers. Although Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels threw for 300 yards, little happened close to the end zone. Volunteers running back Jabari Small plowed through the Tigers’ defense for 127 yards, while the rushing unit was limited to only 55 yards.

Game Time

This SEC matchup is officially sold out. However, it will be on ESPN at 7 p.m. Saturday.

About Cristina Santiago

Cristina Santiago is a senior at the University of Florida studying journalism with a concentration in sports and media.

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