Florida (3-5) at Kentucky (3-5), Saturday, 7:30 p.m., SEC Network
Latest line: Gators are favored by 3 1/2 points
Mike Bianchi, Sports Columnist: Kentucky 20, Florida 17
As expected, the Gators put up a fight against Georgia last weekend in Jacksonville in their first game following the firing of coach Billy Napier. However, getting up for Georgia in Jacksonville is easy compared to getting up for Kentucky on what could be a cold night in Lexington. The question is how good will quarterback DJ Lagway look against a Kentucky defense that has been good at times (held Auburn to 3 points last week) and bad at times (gave up 56 points to Tennessee two games ago). At this point in the season, it’s difficult to trust Lagway and even more difficult to believe the rudderless Gators will continue to stay motivated.
Edgar Thompson, Florida Gators writer: Florida 23, Kentucky 16
Someone has to prevail between two teams with losing records, shaky offenses and little to play for at night in Lexington. The Gators’ talent wins out as Florida picks up its first victory in the Bluegrass State since Kyle Trask’s coming out in 2019. Interim coach Billy Gonzales is able to celebrate as the Gators keep alive their slim bowl hopes. But Mark Stoops’ program clearly needs a reboot, if not a change at the top.
Adam Lichtenstein, Miami Hurricanes writer: Florida 27, Kentucky 24
The Gators put up a good fight against Georgia and came relatively close to an upset of the Bulldogs. Now they head to Lexington to face the Wildcats, whose win over Auburn last week sealed Tigers coach Hugh Freeze’s fate. But Kentucky has struggled against better opponents, and Florida should have enough talent to escape with a win. UF will, however, need a big game from DJ Lagway.
Keven Lerner, Assistant Sports Editor: Florida 23, Kentucky 20
The Gators will have a tough time at Kentucky, especially without standout receivers Tre Wilson and Dallas Wilson, but should hold on for interim coach Billy Gonzales’ first win. UF nearly upset No. 5 Georgia last week and faces a struggling Kentucky team. This is a must-win for Florida, which needs three wins its final four games to earn bowl eligibility. UF’s final three games are a Nov. 15 trip to No. 7 Ole Miss, a Nov. 22 visit from high-powered No. 23 Tennessee and a Nov. 29 matchup with rival Florida State in the Swamp. Yes, it’s a longshot.
