The nation always likes to gush on the Gators. They love the Gators. We Kentucky fans always ignore such infatuation because we know that when it comes down to it (post Noah years), Florida is always a letdown.
That is not the case this year. Kind of. True, Florida does boast the second best record in the SEC. They are the leader of the SEC East.
Both teams have similar records over their last seven games. Kentucky has one more loss than Florida over that stretch. However, Florida had miraculous over time wins at Georgia and at Tennessee.
Kentucky is coming off a rough little patch that includes losses at Alabama and at Ole Miss. Kentucky has only lost away from Rupp this season. The last two losses were by a combined 4 points. The road has not been kind.
Kentucky enters the O-Dome Saturday night with Gameday in tow. It is THE game of the day. Both teams have a lot at stake. However, I think Kentucky is the team that is hungrier for a win. Kentucky, and her players, have a lot to prove...
They need to prove
1. They can win close games: Every game they have lost (sans UConn) has been 9 points or less.
2. They can win on the road: HORRID road record. Wins at Louisville and Portland are all we have.
3.The "seniors" can lead: Senior Jorts and juniors Miller/Liggins need to step it up. The last game against Ole Miss saw LITTLE out of our leaders.
4. They are "Gameday Ready": This team has shown spurts, but they need to put the hammer down for the whole game.
Outcome: Kentucky enters a HOSTILE O-Dome Saturday night. I expect a fight the whole game. However, I see Kentucky find that will to win and surge ahead in the second half. It won't be pretty. It won't be fun. In the end, Kentucky grinds out an UGLY win at Florida.
Kentucky 68 Florida 65
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