It’s “The Third Saturday in September,” which means it’s time for one of the best rivalries in all of sports. Tennessee vs. Florida kicks off on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 7 p.m. ET, so we’re taking a look at the tale of the tape. The Vols are ranked No. 11 in the nation and will have their hands full trying to hold on to that ranking. They are up against a hungry Gators team that has a matchup against a ranked team under its belt to learn from already.
Best Sportsbook Bonuses for Tennessee vs. Florida
Before you lay down your money on Tennessee, claim these sportsbook bonuses to get more bang for your buck. In all, there is $3,615 in bonus money available.
- Caesars Promo Code STARTGET: Bet $50, Get $250 in Bonus Bets
- FanDuel Promo Code: Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets + $100 off NFL Sunday Ticket
- BetMGM Bonus Code ROCKYBET: Claim up to $1,500 in bonus bets
- Bet365 Bonus Code: Bet $1, Get $365 in Bonus Bets
- DraftKings Promo Code: Claim up to $1,250 in Bonuses
Tennessee vs. Florida Betting Preview
The Vols are 2-0 on the season, but they have faced two much lesser opponents and underproduced in the contests considering talent disadvantage. That sets up this Tennessee vs. Florida game to be yet another nailbiter in the Tennessee vs. Florida rivalry’s storied history.
Here are some aspects of the game to keep your eye on.
Tennessee’s Defensive Struggles
The Vols haven’t won in The Swamp in 20 years. They are favored to break the streak, but it isn’t a guarantee. They have shown vulnerabilities on both sides of the ball this year. The defensive problems were made clear last week against Austin Peay. Governors’ starting QB Mike DiLiello passed for 260 yards and a touchdown. Considering the talent level of Austin Peay, that’s not a good sign the Vols did enough to overcome their defensive struggles from last season, when they ranked 128th out of 133 FBS teams in passing defense.
The Gators starting QB Graham Mertz has moved the ball well in his two starts, although it didn’t lead to many scores against Utah in Week 1. He has thrown for 526 yards and two touchdowns in his two starts. His go-to target has been Ricky Pearsall, who has accumulated 215 yards in two games. Last year, he had five catches for 103 yards and a touchdown against the Vols. The impact of the Vols’ strategy to defend him will be critical on the outcome of this game.
Vols’ Offensive Concerns
The Vols put up 49- and 30- point performances to start the season, and Milton III’s stat sheet was respectable in both. However, the bulk of his damage through the air has been thanks to short yardage plays. The rest of the offense has been thanks to RB Jaylen Wright, who started the season with back-to-back 100-yard rushing performances.
The Gators have dominated in run defense so far this season, allowing 45 yards to both backs they have faced, including against No. 12-ranked Utah. If the Gators can perform up that level against the Vols, Tennessee will be forced to rely on the arm of Milton III, and that hasn’t proven to be effective this season.
Florida’s Glaring Weakness
The Gators’ biggest weakness happens to be a drive killer — their offensive line. They lost two starters to the draft and two due to transfer to USC, and the unfamiliarity of the new group is on full display. They allowed five sacks against the one quality opponent they faced in Utah. It stalled multiple drives and ultimately kept them from pulling off the upset. So far this season, The Vols have registered 11 sacks.
That is cause for significant concern for the Gators. The matchup up front is going to be especially critical in the contest. Their performances so far suggest it should go in Tennessee’s favor, but fans won’t find out for sure until they take the field.
Tennessee vs. Florida Prediction
Tennessee winning a low-scoring, tight game makes the most sense given how the two match up on paper. However, it’s likely the Gators cover the spread thanks to home field advantage. Prediction: Vols win 28-24.
