Keeven Kuate aka DJ KEY
I'm about to make more enemies, and this time it's going to be the entire state of Alabama, minus all those die hard Auburn fans (a 'Bama upset would be perfect).
Are you ready for my statement?
Nick Saban's Alabama team may be the best in the BCS, AP poll, my grandma's poll, and just about every poll that is around. Yet, I do not believe that they will even win the SEC, and it will not even be close.
The game is scheduled December 6th, and every person who lives Alabama is worried that their team, that they have been rooting for all season long, will be another victim of the Florida Gators high-powered offense and hard hitting defense.
Ever since Tim Tebow could not convert on that fourth and short against Ole Miss, which led to their first loss of the season where Ole Miss won by one, 31-30, Florida has averaged almost 53 points a game, blasting three ranked opponents in Georgia, LSU and South Carolina by a combined score of 156 to 37.
That is what you call domination.
Let's compare how Alabama has done against common opponents with Florida ever since that costly Florida loss...
17-14 win against Kentucky (Florida beat Kentucky by 58 points)
24-20 win against Mississippi (Well, ok 'Bama fans you got me there!)
27-21 overtime win against an overrated LSU (Florida blasted them by 30 points)
Not convinced yet?
Let's look at key positions and see where Alabama trails Florida...
Quarterback
Tim Tebow is right in the middle of the Heisman Race with his 22 touchdowns and two interceptions, while rushing for another 11 touchdowns. And oh yeah, he's already won a national championship and Heisman Trophy.
John Parker Wilson has thrown just eight touchdowns (Florida WR Percy Harvin has caught seven from last year's Heisman winner, to put in perspective), to go along with five picks.
I did not even need to write that for you to agree with me about that.
Running Back
I got to say that Junior Glen Coffee will be key for Alabama to upset (Vegas will make Alabama the underdogs in this game) Florida. He's been really the anchor to their offense. He'll need to top 100 yards against Florida for them to have a shot to remain close.
On the other hand, Florida can stick basically anyone at running back and get great results, having ten players who have had five attempts or more this year. Urban Meyer's squad has had already 2,528 rushing yards and 37 rushing touchdowns, through 11 games. Harvin's injury though means more pressure on Chris Rainey, and Jeffery Demps (Fastest high school recruit in college football history over 100 meters, 10.01, not bad.)
That is simply amazing.
Wide Receivers
The injury to Percy Harvin during the Florida State game will mean that one of the most explosive players in college football may be out for this game. More pressure on Tim Tebow to make plays to Louis Murphy. Also, we will see the Tight End Aaron Hernandez will be getting more involved and many passes out of the backfield. Coach Urban Meyer will need to get creative in the play-calling and the formations. This game will be all about speed and yards after the catch.
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about 1 month ago
Where do I even start with some of your criticism of Alabama?
Well, how about here:
The Tide beat Georgia by 11 points. At Georgia. You beat Georgia by more, yes, but that was a neutral site game. Georgia has only lost one home game this year (to the Tide) and if my history is correct, they beat the Gators last year, and the Gators got to play a depleted Bulldog team that was coming off of three games against the top-25 in 4 weeks. Alabama had to play them at the apex of their powers, and against the "vaunted" black hole that awaited them in Athens. Saban's team beat them a lot worse than the score indicated.
Second, yeah, Florida beat the crap out of the Tigers. In the Swamp. The last two times the Gators have met the Tigers in Baton Rouge, they've lost. Their series has been dominated by the home team the last couple of years, and this year was no exception. The Tigers having their campus damaged by a hurricane and having to play in a tough SEC without some studs from last year's team may also have contributed to them being "overrated". And yeah, the Tide beat them in Baton Rouge, where they are still dangerous.
Finally, your National Champion and Heisman winning QB Tim Tebow, well, here's a news flash: he wouldn't have won that title without the help of Chris Leak and an overrated Ohio State team that faced them in Tempe. Also, they couldn't beat a Michigan team in a virtual home game at the Capital One Bowl last year, even though the Wolverines had a lame duck coach and hobbled guys in Mike Hart and Chad Henne.
And yours wins against Tennessee, Hawaii, and Arkansas would have impressed me if those teams actually had any clue what they were doing. To me, the Gators have been the beneficiaries of having most of their tough games at home, and they've gotten to play several teams who appear to be better on paper than they really are (see Vandy and South Carolina).
If they do destroy the Tide like you seem to think they will, then by all means congratulations, enjoy your title shot. You've earned it. But, if they find themselves in a dog fight at a neutral site like I think they will, then maybe they aren't quite as amazing as you think they are.
from about 1 month ago
Thats all well and good, but the fact is Alabama has played a FAR EASIER schedule than Florida.
According to the NCAA's own statistics:
Alabama's strength of schedule is ranked 91st nationally.
Florida's SOS is ranked 14th nationally.
Bama is 11-0 by squeaking out wins against weak teams. Outside of an awful performance against Ole Miss, Florida has won every game by 23+ points.
from about 1 month ago
Please do not HATE!!! Get a life!! You need to give credit where it is due. It is Alabama's time to shine and they have done great and will continue. Additionlly your comments will have many people that read them to believe that you are currently seeing a SHRINK or will be scheduling an appointment in the near future to see one. You are so sad!!!
STJ (Roll Tide)!!!
from about 1 month ago
The Gators almost went to the national championship with one of the worst defenses last season and no running game outside of Tebow. That tells you how great Tebow was. And the only reason Michigan won the bowl game is because the defense had packed it in after the LSU loss.
Not only does Tebow have a defense this seaosn they are a great defense. And look what happens when you put a running game with Tebow,. It makes him and the Gators offense literally unstoppable. They don't even need to pass the ball to dominate. How can you stop them? We haven't even seen the Gators need to push their offense.
Alabama is in serious trouble.
from about 1 month ago
1.)"You beat Georgia by more, yes...". Try 39 points to your 11.
2.)"and if my history is correct, they beat the Gators last year, and the Gators got to play a depleted Bulldog team that was coming off of three games against the top-25 in 4 weeks." If you know your history, you will know that Florida had to play eventual #1 LSU and #7 Kentucky right before the Georgia game.. We went through the gauntlet to.
3.)"And yeah, the Tide beat them in Baton Rouge, where they are still dangerous." Geogia 52-LSU 38...Ole Miss 31-LSU 13...Not to mention the almost home loss to Troy as well. They aren't dangerous anywhere.
4.)"he wouldn't have won that title without the help of Chris Leak"...Oh did Leak help him win the Heisman to? No Gator fan would say we won that without Chris Leak.
5.)"they couldn't beat a Michigan team in a virtual home game at the Capital One Bowl last year' We lost there is no doubt they beat us, but how is it a virtual home game? Yah they're in Florida, but each team gets the same amounts of tickets.
about 1 month ago
I dont think Alabama will win but its going to be a great football game.
from about 1 month ago
Only wanted to add is LSU played their best game against Bama. There was no team on LSU's schedule that they wanted to beat anymore that Bama. Bama may not have the most flashy offense but they are playing as a team. Bama may not have better overall players than Florida but they are running on all 8 cylinders. Florida may win the game but one thing is for sure, "Bama is back".
about 1 month ago
Yawn. How many times have Bama fans heard this one before? I know, I know, it's easy for you kids to get caught up in statistics, but statistics lie. Just wait and see how well this florida offense does when they can't get the ball.
Secondly, someone please explain to me HOW florida's schedule has been so much tougher? This is a mystery to me. Show me the teams on their schedule they've played that are better than the team's that Bama has faced. I'll be interested to see this.
about 1 month ago
How is Florida schedule tougher...I guess it is the Citadel. Outside of that, they seem to play the same teams. Give me a break...I am tired of hearing "how bad bama is" in all the media crap, all they have done is win every game they have played. Florida hasn't done that. I am not a bama fan but I sure as He// hope bama spanks Florida to shout the media up. Btw all bama has done all year is dominate everybody they have palyed with controlling the line of scrimmage...Last time I checked the team that does that normally wins. I guess I need to say it----ROLL TIDE ROLL.
from about 1 month ago
Oh, right. I guess I forgot about the citadel.
from about 1 month ago
"How is Florida schedule tougher?"
FACT: Florida's opponents have a combined winning percentage of 59%, compared to Bama's opponents 51%. FACT: Florida's SOS ranks 14th nationally, Bama's ranks 91st.
And I would NOT say that Bama has dominated everybody. LSU ran all over them. They beat Ole Miss by only 4 points and Kentucky by 3 points.
Those are the facts. You can skew them however you want.
Fact: For the season, Alabama has outscored its opponents by 211 points. Florida (despite playing the harder schedule) has outscored its opponents by 379 points.
about 1 month ago
december 6th will prove to you how right i am. Alabama has not played anyone good, Georgia was the most overrated team in college football after my school ASU. Florida will win by a good 10 points
from about 1 month ago
Oh. You're an ASU fan. I guess if you don't see much big-boy football it's easy to fall into the high-scoring, highlight reel trap. We won't hold it against you. I think you'll learn your lesson.
Florida is a good team. And Florida looks like a great team....... except when they play teams that can dominate the line of scrimmage. Bama can do that on BOTH sides of the ball. If The Tide doesn't play well, sure Florida could win. But you and all your flag-football-watching friends are wrong if you think Florida wins this game easily. And by arguing about it, all you're doing is solidifying the opinion of those of us who who know you don't know what you're talking about. We've been watching teams just like this Alabama team punch media darlings in the mouth for decades.
from about 1 month ago
FACT: Alabama 12-0 Florida 11-1
FACT: You don't play the game, the players will!
FACT: Alabama has listened all year long that they will stumble, and given no credit at all. Yet are undefeated.
FACT: Alabama has a winning recorrd against EVERY SEC team.
FACT: 92' National Championship team was going to be demolished by a Miami team that was faster, scored more points and had no chance at winning. Let me see, the score 34-13 against the "Better" team.
You can sit here and debate this six ways from Sunday but, we don't play the game. The players will determine the outcome. See its pompous, arrogant fans such as yourself that are no where to be found the next day after their team is beat. Can Bama loose to the Gators? Certainly However, I feel that Bama has just as good a shot at shutting them down and making a statement. Ole' Miss exposed how to beat the Gators. So, don't act like they are unbeatable! Running up scores on opponents has long been a tradition with Gator Nation! Thank you for fans like yourself who will hopefully make Gator players think they are unbeatable and go into the game with that mental mindset! We like being underdogs! So, keep up the good work! Roll Tide in Atlanta!
about 1 month ago
Forget the stupid comments by obviously biased fans of Bama or Florida and ignore the writing of someone who has seen only highlights and box scores of both teams' games. Florida has a good offense and better than average defense. Alabama has a better than average offense and top-notch defense. Since the Ole Miss game, all of Florida's games have been decided not by their superior play, but by their opponents' mistakes. Alabama, on the other hand, has physically dominated every opponent they've played except for the first half against LSU. On Dec 6th, the story won't be how badly Florida beats Alabama, but whether Alabama gives the game to Florida. If it doesn't, Alabama wins. If it does, Florida wins. Pretty simple... And for all those betting the over, you better hope for turnovers and silly mistakes because this will likely be a solid 28-21 type of game.
from about 1 month ago
I've been to 2 florida games this year and seem highlights of overrated alabama. It would be a huge upset if Alabama won. Florida is superior even on the defensive side of the ball. Yet, all SEC defenses are overrated. LSU scored 21 points on Florida's D and Georgia scored 30 points in the 2nd half against Alabama. SEC, this year, is all about the offense and tricking defenses. That is what Urban Meyer is so good at.
from about 1 month ago
You've only seen highlights of Bama, yet you can call them overrated? How would you know?
from about 1 month ago
Florida has the better defense. They allow less points per game.
from about 1 month ago
Keevan, you're kinda making my point for me. The typical media member and non-Bama football fan has seen some of Florida's games, but only highlights of Alabama's games. While plenty of people have watched Florida's offense make big plays due to their opponents' mistakes, few have seen Alabama's offense methodically drive down the field and physically wear down their opponents. While Florida's offense is "sexy" and lends itself well to highlights, Alabama's is just hard-nosed repetition of the previous plays. On the defensive side of the ball, both Alabama and Florida have done a good job of shutting down big plays. While a reduction of big plays really hurts Florida's offense, it doesn't change Alabama's offense at all.
I've been able to watch 11 Alabama games and 5+ Florida games this year and I just haven't seen anything that makes me believe Florida will run all over Alabama. In fact, unlike most fans and media members who believe Alabama can only win if Florida makes tons of mistakes, what I've seen makes me believe Florida can only win if Alabama makes mistakes. If Alabama shuts downs big plays as they've done all year except for slop-time against Georgia, it will be very difficult for Florida to pull out the win. If Alabama doesn't shut down big plays, Florida wins. I believe it will be more of a defensive struggle than most people think, but we'll all know in a week.
about 1 month ago
I'll agree with you that 'Bama is back and will be very competitive with Nick Saban for years to come. I just can't see them winning the SEC this year. Next year, why not?
about 1 month ago
I'll agree that it is going to be a tough game. I have also commented to my Florida friends that if Bama loses then by all means, Florida is indeed the better team. True, the Gators beat teams we beat by a larger margin. But true championship teams find a way to pull out wins no matter what. Tebow is good, but he had to get ONE yard in that Ole miss game. Champions find a way to win. Another nice little tid-bit for you: The main reason some of those scores are so high is because Meyer hasn't taken Tebow out when the score was already high. That will not only hurt his depth next season but (God forbid) if Tebow got hurt (and keeping him in when it's not necessary WILL), then he won't have experienced players to come in to fill the void. All I seem to hear is Tebow Tebow Tebow. One man can do a lot...proven. But my game plan would be "stop Tebow." Game Over. No need to stop the run game (your 2500 + yard Gators only average 229 yards a game) nice stat but Bama rushing has single players making that every game. Arenas, Coffee, Johnson, should I go on? Stats can say whatever you want them to say, bottom line, Alabama will be the toughest test Florida has had to date, and it will NOT be a blow out on either end. Will YOU be willing to concede that Alabama is better should WE win? Most of my Gator friends are already planning their alibis and excuses.
from about 1 month ago
If Bama wins, of course I will concede that they are the better team. For the time being, they have not looked like a number 1. Sloppy wins against mediocre teams, sure Bama is undefeated for now, but like im saying its gonna catch up to you down the road. Bama needs to prove to me and the rest of the nation that they are the best team in country because so far I am not convinced yet. I'm no Gator fan, just a fan of the facts.
from about 1 month ago
Rodney, have you watched any of the games?
Tebow is out of the game very early. He left the Citadel game 5 minutes into the second quarter. He hasn't thrown a 4th quarter incompletion in several weeks because he hasn't hardly played in the end of games.
Don't forget, Ball State is undefeated too. Does that mean they are a better team than Florida?
from about 1 month ago
Rodney, You are correct, the Gators "only average 229 yards" per game. But Bama only averages 198 yards per game. 229 > 198. What is your point?
You are also correct that Ole Miss game was not a championship caliber effort by this Gator team, but I am quite confident that loss was the best thing to happen to the Gators this year.
Nick, don't forget Utah as well.
from about 1 month ago
"Stop Tebow" hmmmmm good luck with that...
about 1 month ago
I don't think anyone would argue that Alabama has been the most impressive or flashy team this year. The biggest wins have come against teams that have seemed to fall apart in the games following (i.e. Clemson, Georgia). However, what Alabama has done, that no one else has been able to is to take care of business EVERY week. Florida has gaudy stats, but one big L. Oklahoma and Texas score 50 or 60 every game, but both are blemished. Until Alabama fails to take care of business, they deserve whatever comes with being number 1. All questions will be answered in nine days.
from about 1 month ago
I agree with you 100%. that's why we got to wait. nine long days!
about 1 month ago
I'll take Florida though. and Ball State, Boise State and Utah are undefeated yet they are not number 1.
about 1 month ago
I am a big Bama fan. And I will be the first to admit that Florida looks unbeatable right now. But you just never know how teams will match up against each other. And on any given day any team can be beaten just as Florida found out.
Bama is really a bit of a surprise this season and is the youngest team in the nation with only 9 seniors. Florida has probably the most talent than any team in the nation period. Florida should by all means win December 6th. But if anyone thinks their opinion of who is best will score a point for either team in the game, they will be disappointed.
Florida fans are confident and they should be. Bama fans are defensive about their chances because no one gives Bama a prayer to beat Florida and really no respect what so ever. If Bama beats Auburn Saturday they will be 12-0. And that is against a SEC schedule, but yet Bama is over rated by pretty much everyone in the nation. Hows that? Because of ugly wins? You want see us giving those wins back just because they weren't sexy enough.
If you think you can compare wins against common opponents and come to a conclusion as to who will win a particular game between 2 teams then you are crazy. But some of you will do just that. There is so many examples each year as to why that scenario never works but pointing them out is useless.
It should be an awesome contest regardless and the media build up to the game will be enormous. I just don't think you will see Bama getting blown out as many believe but if you think that then you have your right to your opinion. But right now us Bama fans can't really even begin to think about Florida. We got a score to settle first. I just hope Bama and Florida both take care of business this Saturday. Because in my mind the winner of the SEC championship should be in the BCS mnc. If it happens to be Florida then I will root for them to win then. But I don't think anyone on the Bama sidelines will be shaking in their boots when the mighty Gators take the field in Atlanta.;)
about 1 month ago
I think this argument should be put off until next week. Both teams still have the big rivals to get past before this meeting in Hotlanta.
Should either team stumble this weekend against Auburn or Florida State then the perspective of the SEC Championship game changes dramatically towards either team's possible trip to Miami.
I hope both wins so we will have a #1 & #2 showdown in Hotlanta..
from about 1 month ago
Agreed... best of luck to Bama and my Gators on Saturday against what will be two dangerous and amped-up in-state rivals.
about 1 month ago
Right, both have to get past very good FSU and AU teams. On paper, Florida should beat Alabama by 2-3 TDs. Still, Bama is undefeated and UF is not, so anything can happen. I see the Bama-Florida game being like the Texas Tech-OU, with the higher ranked team being the underdog. Only time will tell.
about 1 month ago
It will be like the game couple of years ago between #1 Ohio State and #2 Florida Gators all over again even though we're only talking about SEC championship right now....Both sides of Gators offence and defence will dominate against Tides...??? uhmm whatever the hell they have. Florida are motivated ,confident, and just hyped up because they know what they can do just knowing what they been doing this past games beating teams with an average of 42 points over the oppnents. ANY SCORE PREDICTIONS OUT THERE?
about 1 month ago
We've heard it before. I love it. Pile it on. I'll be sure and check back on December 7th and see how you're feeling then.
Nice game against Ole Miss.
from about 1 month ago
"Nice game against Ole Miss."
Wow. That's original. Not like we haven't heard it before. It's almost like saying "Nice game against Lousiana-Monroe"
All jokes aside, the SEC Championship is going to one for the ages. The TRUE National Championship game.
from about 1 month ago
Sorry you've heard it before. But it's current events. See... I'm seeing a bunch of smack from you guys. Talking like you are perfect... unbeatable. That makes the Ole Miss game relevant, whether you like it or not. LA MONROE is irrelevant... unless we want to continue to go back in history... then I'll wear your tail out.
I agree that the the SEC Championship is going to one for the ages. The TRUE National Championship game. I can't wait. But I challenge you... look around bleacher report. it's the 10-1 team's fans that are talking all of the smack... not the 11-0 team. So if your gonna smack it... deal with the consequences. No whining about Ole Miss being thrown up in your face.
from about 1 month ago
Ken, with all due respect, I have seen plenty of smack talk on B/R from Bama fans who near as I can tell from their comments have not actually watched Florida play football this season or looked at the SEC/NCAA team statistics ... but they sure as hell know that Florida lost to Ole Miss eight games ago.
The only reason the Ole Miss loss is relevant in my mind is because that was the catalyst for this Gator team turning into arguably the hottest team in the country and going on a six-game SEC-record-breaking streak that has them on track to break the SEC scoring record set by the 1996 Gators.
Win or lose I will be here Dec 7th to discuss the outcome and remind everybody that Ole Miss beat Florida and that the 1992 Bama team beat Miami. ;-)
about 1 month ago
Enough!! Lets wait and Watch Game.... Then we can stat all of this over. Gotta Luv Collage Ball
about 1 month ago
Enough... Lets watch the GAME. We can start all this over after that. Gators will win. Don't think it will be a Blow out ,But they will Wn. Then al the ---t Talk will really start.
Go Gators
about 1 month ago
I hope we can all agree, that this is maybe one of the only time in sports where we can say that the undefeated teams are not the strongest and best teams in their respectively sports. (Memphis made it to the Title Game, and they were the last undefeated team in the college basketball, and had number 1 pick Derrick Rose)
No one would have said this last year about the Patriots (16-0), or when the Celtics starting their season 8-0, and all the many other teams who have started perfect, they have always been the best team at their current moment in time.
Alabama, Utah, Boise State, Ball State, sure they are undefeated but good luck against the Florida's, USC's, Texas's, Oklahoma's, catch my drift? We may never know, as there is not a playoff system.
I'm not hating on Alabama. I like Nick Saban, just stating the facts. Facts isn't football though, therefore, we should be thankful that at least they will be playing.
That is why there's good and bad things about the BCS. If there was not a BCS these debates would not even relevant. Think of a BCS in college basketball, last year it would have been UNC vs UCLA. (Too bad as I'm a die hard UNC fan, as I'm from the east coast just attending ASU for college)
about 1 month ago
I think the misconception many non-Florida fans have is that the Ole Miss loss is an indicator of Florida's aptitude. In fact, the Ole Miss game was an aberration. Moreover, it has proven to be the best thing that could have happened to Florida.
Before the Ole Miss game, Florida just seemed off. Although they beat Hawaii, Miami, and Tennessee handily, they just did not seem to be clicking, especially on offense. After the Ole Miss game, Florida has just destroyed everyone in its path. Their closest game since that loss = a 28 point road win over Vanderbilt (in which Florida was up 42-0 before pulling the starters - final score 42-14).
Compare them Alabama. Bama is undefeated. No doubt about it. They're good. But examine how they got there. Bama dominated a few teams (Clemson, Georgia for a half, Tenn and Miss St and a couple of weak OOC teams). However, Bama has looked vulnerable at times. Bama squeaked by Kentucky, squeaked by Ole Miss, barely beat LSU, and struggled with Tulane.
So here is the difference between the teams:
Florida has struggled in two games and lost one of them. Against Miami and against Ole Miss. Miami was only down 9-3 going into the 4th quarter and then Tebow took over and they won 26-3. Against Ole Miss, Florida played poor in all phases of the games (3 fumbles, several blown coverages and missed tackles, many missed blocking assignments, and a blocked extra point that was the difference).
Alabama has struggled in 4 games and won all of them.
If the game is close, Bama has a great chance of winning (they've done it 4 times). But, as things look, the game shouldn't be close. Florida has just as good of defense, but a much better offense (better running game and better passing game) and much better special teams.
If Bama falls behind early, I think they have no chance. JPW is not a gunslinger and Florida's defensive backs are all ball hawks (most interception returns for TDs in the nation). Bama needs to keep it close to have any chance.
from about 1 month ago
I meant to add:
Both of Florida's "struggle" games were early in the season. Bama has struggled as recently as November 8th against LSU
from about 1 month ago
Nick, good assessment.
If Florida continues the play with the intensity, focus and momentum they have shown the last 7 games then I expect them to beat both FSU and Alabama going away.
If things do not go the Gators way early in either of these games then it will be interesting to see how they respond to the adversity. The good news is that they have been playing lights out in all three phases of the game.
about 1 month ago
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I am thankful for SEC trashtalk...we have the craziest fans in the country and posts like this prove it.
This is going to be the game of the year and remind us why we love college football. Soak it up.
Gators by 35.
:)
from about 1 month ago
Agreed, Herb!
It is so good to once again be talking trash about a SEC Championship Game between Florida and Alabama.
about 1 month ago
First of all the article wasn't that bad but a lot of the points are meaningless.
I cringe everytime I see someone compare the common teams we've played and site the final scores. That has got to be the dumbest thing I've ever heard of. It brings no valid argument to the table.
First, this Alabama offense is probably incapable of scoring more than 50 points because of the stlyle we play. We play power football and milk the clock. When Bama gets a large lead in the 2nd half we try to run the clock out. Florida tries to pour it on. And yes Florida fans Meyer likes to run up the score. He did it against Miami by kicking an insignificant FG with a few seconds left. He called timeouts late in the 4th quarter against UGA, and I was watching the South Carolina game and the commentators were surprised Tebow was playing late in the 4th up by 40 or 50.
Hey, Ole Miss is a common opponent, we beat them Florida couldn't. Does that make Bama better than UF? No.
I can't stand it when people say Bama only beat LSU by 6 while Florida beat them by 30. Don't people know that LSU was more pumped up and played harder in that game than any game all year? The entire town of Baton Rouge just couldn't wait for Saban to return. Bama players didn't even want to ride on the same bus as the head coach because they were a bit scared for their saftey. (not joking)
Regarding the SOS arguement. . . You guys should really look more into that then just saying Bama is what 91st while Florida is 14th. If you just look at the SEC games which is the most important part of your schedule, Florida's opponents have a .571 winning percentage while Bama's is .521 percent. Not that big of a difference.
Bama is so low in SOS because the two cupcakes they played (Tulane and Western Kentucky) are a combined 4-18. While Florida's two cupcakes are (Hawaii and Citiadel) are a 10-13.
One last thing, I find it very commical that Florida fans are talking about how Alabama margain of victory isn't very good, like that somehow makes us inferrior to the Gators. How quickly you Gator fans forget the 2006 season when Florida only won it's conference games by an average of 7.75 points while the "great" Ohio State Buckeyes won their games by an average of 26. I think we all know how that game turned out.
The biggest difference I see between these two teams in their style of play. Bama plays power football while Florida plays a finesse offense (soft). Florida has a bunch of 5 9" 175 lbs running back making plays. They don't run over you they run around you. Will that work against Bama? I don't know but it should be a good game either way.
from about 1 month ago
Michael, I may be wrong, but I'm pretty sure handicappers regularly use Points For and Points Against and Margin of Victory in predicting the outcome of a contest.
Are you making a prediction or just criticizing the predictions of others?
I agree the contrast in styles is what makes this an interesting matchup. I would like to point out that among our main offensive weapons are Harvin at 5'11" 195 lbs and Tebow at 6'3" 240 lbs.
I actually think the more interesting question is can Bama's power offense control the ball against Florida's defense, because that will be a bigger factor in stopping the Gator O.
I'm thinking Florida 41, Alabama 14. It will be fun watching all that Gator speed tearing it up on an indoor track.
Good luck to Bama against Auburn today.
about 1 month ago
I didn't really think about this before but right now the Gators are ranked 4th. I hope they can somehow move up to 2nd so it can be #1 vs. #2 in the SEC Championship game. So it really will be the "true" NC game.
about 1 month ago
Good luck Gator fans! I hope ya'll put it on the Seminoles. Hopefully our guys can beat Auburn and break the streak. The hype for next weeks SEC championship will be good for both teams in regards to national exposure, recruiting and such. Ya'll will probably beat us by 40 but whether its by 1 or 50 nothing can take away from our amazing season this year. We were not supposed to be here, not this soon. If we are somehow able to beat ya'll we will still be a big underdog in the BCS MNC game, nothing new. But I do believe the winner of the SEC will be the MNC when its all said and done. That probably will be the Gators this year. But don't expect Bama to disappear after this season. We will probably be seeing ya'll a lot more in Atlanta for years to come. Roll Tide!!!
from about 1 month ago
Damon, no doubt. The Tide have already had an amazing season with everything still left to play for.
I'm thrilled to have Florida vs Alabama in the SEC CG again.
about 1 month ago
While you say bama is running on all eight get a clue the Gators are running on all 33 IE Offense (11) + Defense (11) and Special Teams (11). I do believe 33 will beat 8 easily and most likely a good example would be a Top Fueler against a Nascar. Bring plenty of Toilet Paper and boxes of Tide your going to need to wipe alot and then wash your britches when this is over!
GO GATORS!
QUOTE" by ron
from 2 days ago
Only wanted to add is LSU played their best game against Bama. There was no team on LSU's schedule that they wanted to beat anymore that Bama. Bama may not have the most flashy offense but they are playing as a team. Bama may not have better overall players than Florida but they are running on all 8 cylinders. Florida may win the game but one thing is for sure, "Bama is back". END QUOTE
about 1 month ago
I am the football fan in my relationship..thus meaning that I'm a girl and by reading some of these remarks I think that I may know more about football than the people writing responses....florida is a great team and I was upset when weren't able to play them in the regular season so playing for the sec championship against them makes it all the better...correct me if I'm wrong but isn't winning (whether by a single point or 40) better than losing by one point...my main remark is that I want to say that if we do lose next week to the #2 florida gators....isn't that better than getting beat by an unranked old miss team????....just wondering why nobody is talking about that at all....:p
from about 1 month ago
I guess we will just have to comforted by the fact that we won the SEC by beating the #1 team in the nation. I'm good with it.
from about 1 month ago
In a word, "no" Michelle. Bama gets bragging rights if Bama beats us. Bragging rights are non-transferable. Ole Miss has bragging rights over us... no one else.
We were outplayed and outcoached by 'em... We are a better team for it, but they still have the rights.
from about 1 month ago
BTW, Ole Miss got into the rankings last week... will be higher this week, and even higher after their well-deserved bowl game. This Ole Miss team is for real.
about 1 month ago
hahaha loving these GATOR and BAMA FANS! too bad im going to be at a awful U of A ASU game instead.
about 1 month ago
I agree with Michelle. I'm the football fan in my marriage too. Alabama fan ALL my life. The digits on the scoreboard at the end of the game are what matter reguardless if its 1 or 41. And all this trash talk bout how Fl is gonna beat us is all well and good. I remember another team from Fl who did the same thing when we met them in New Orleans. We're cool with being the underdog!! So rave on cat s**t, someone will come and cover you up! ROLL TIDE!!
about 1 month ago
And I say again...
Win or lose I will be here Dec 7th to discuss the outcome and remind everybody that Ole Miss beat Florida and that the 1992 Bama team beat Miami. ;-)
from about 1 month ago
lol....just a suggestion...you can be there on dec 7th...but it'll be over and done with by then...the game is at 4 on the 6th...this almost proves my point earlier....
from about 1 month ago
Michelle, I will be here.
Here, as in "on B/R" looking for you and any other Bama or Florida fans that care to discuss the outcome of the game which occurs on 12/6.
I would hope folks would be a bit more civil and actually think before they typed if they actually planned to come back to B/R after their team lost the game, whether they be Tide or Gator fans.
I am also still hopeful that Bama fans will come up with something more interesting and relevant to talk about than 12 NC's, 1992 and Ole Miss. It is going to be a long week if that's the best ya'll got.
about 1 month ago
Bama fans pointing out a loss is a lot better than most of the Gators responces. Which is usually, we beat UK 63-5, you beat them 17-14.
Seriously Gatorjon, you are scoreboard watching. Is that the best you Gator fans have.
from about 1 month ago
Michael, how would you handicap the game? What is your prediction?
about 1 month ago
The answer is Florida will not beat Alabama.
about 1 month ago
Hey GatorJon...I've never said anything other than what has happened this season because what happened 10 years ago, 5 years ago, or only last year doesn't matter....only 2008...I still stick with us losing to the florida is better than florida losing to ole miss....either way...an sec team will play for the national championship....if it's florida...i'll be cheering for them....until then....tell me a team that actually challenged florida at the line, in the air, or on the ground....i know florida can do it...but so can alabama...
from about 1 month ago
Michelle, I didn't mean to implicate you in particular in my comment.
The Ole Miss loss is certainly relevant, but I think it may be relevant in ways that favor Florida more than Alabama (i.e., the loss vs how the Gators have played since the loss).
Its not Florida's fault that no team has challenged them since Ole Miss. The Gators just put up 45 points on FSU who has only been giving up 18.5 pts per game and is ranked 7th in total defense.
Sure Bama can win the game, but sometimes teams are underdogs for a reason.
about 1 month ago
27 -24 Alabama.
about 1 month ago
GatorJon, you are right the Ole Miss loss did help Florida become more focused for the rest of the season but it still provides for some great material for Bama fans. Like it or not you did lose to a rebuilding squad in the Swamp and I think you were something like 25 point favorite.
You can spin it how you want but that is still embarrassing.
from about 1 month ago
Michael, it certainly was embarrassing for the players and fans. The Gators played poorly and did not respond well to adversity in that game.
Tebow had personally set the goal of this squad being the first ever to go undefeated. I think he was playing tight and that influenced the play of the team.
With the loss to Ole Miss, that goal was lost and the pressure was relieved. Tebow and the Gators have played loose and been having fun ever since.
The Ole Miss loss was the best thing to happen to this team.
about 1 month ago
Congrats Gator fans on another impressive win against FSU. That was sure one sloppy conditions to have to play in and the Gators didn't miss a beat. Us Bama fans feel like the weight of the world is off our shoulders let me tell you! Going 12-0 in the regular scheduled season is harder in lots of ways than winning the MNC is. LSU lost twice last year just for an example.
The only way I see us beating Florida is for our offense to help our defense by keeping them off the field and keeping Florida's offense off the field as well. That will be a daunting challenge for sure. But if our offense can keep from turning the ball over and are able to run the ball and shorten the game with ball control we just may have a chance how ever small it may be.
It sure is great to see and hear Bama's name being mentioned again with the word championship again. Its been a long long dry spell for us. ROLL TIDE BABY!!!!