Three hundred sixty-six total yards. Almost 40 minutes of possession. Twenty-three first downs. And yet, the scoreboard read LSU: 20, Florida: 10.
Florida statistically controlled this game, until the third quarter, when all momentum was lost. The Gators didn’t get beat by the Tiger’s superiority, but rather, they beat themselves with turnovers, penalties and missed chances.
In all honesty, this outcome is why people love college sports. The stat sheet showed a total yards comparison of 366 (FL) to 310 (LSU), 38 minutes of Florida possession to LSU’s 22, and a whopping 83 to 56 plays. On paper, the numbers should show a comfortable lead for Florida and an undeniable control of the field; however, the final score reflected a different outcome.
The fact fans can’t ever be truly certain of a game's outcome keeps people coming back. A great example is Auburn University’s “Kick Six” in the 2013 Iron Bowl. These highs and lows make for recaps that rival myths. That being said, the Gators have hit a low, and the deeper issues have officially come to the surface of the swamp.
Starting quarterback DJ Lagway had a rough night, to say the least. Five interceptions, including a pick-six, is enough to make even the mightiest of giants fall. Each pick chipped away at any momentum the Gators held and allowed LSU prime scoring opportunities. Any potential gains became deflated losses.
Some of the interceptions seemed to be thrown under pressure, with Lagway still recovering from injuries. Whether it was a mental or physical challenge that affected his gameplay, it resulted in crucial turnovers that made the yardage gained trivial. This is more than just a bad day at the office — when you play like that, you don’t win games.
It was another game where penalties interrupted any rhythm with an ultimate loss of 57 yards. The 87-yard touchdown was recalled with a holding call, an embarrassing moment. Once again, fans are left to question the discipline of the team. How does a team that talented let something so simple blow up their game? Whether the blame falls with coaches or players, these errors proved costly. The SEC is notorious for how unforgiving it can be, this game being an excellent example of how quickly a game can be turned upside down.
There’s a question that lingers after the game: How does a team dominate — not just on the clock, but also the field — and finish with a measly ten points? Florida failed to capitalize on every key moment. This was a textbook example of leaving points on the field.
It’s worth saying that the defense saved UF from complete and utter embarrassment. They forced LSU into some tricky spots and held a solid wall, keeping them to a modest 20 points. But no defense can carry a team that throws five interceptions or gives up holding penalties. You can’t ride a bike with a flat tire.
Head coach Billy Napier’s job is once again called into question. In the past two weeks, I think I’ve heard the words “Fire Billy” more than I’ve seen my roommates. There’s a lot of talent on this team, but it’s clear Florida struggles to execute under pressure. Any problems that already exist are just amplified under his guidance. With Sun Belt tactics falling short once again, it’s going to be difficult to keep pace in the toughest college football conference.
If you ask me, the Gators didn’t lose because LSU is a better team. They lost because they got in their own way. And in the SEC, that’s the fastest path to irrelevance.
Riley Brinser is a 19-year-old Santa Fe sustainability studies student.
