I'm still in a wait and see mode. I'll believe we beat the gators in the swamp when the clock expires and we have more points than them.
BYU loss looks better but the GAST loss looks worse. Yesterday's win doesn't move the needle for me. Hopefully it will interject some confidence in the team and especially JG. I think the only way the Vols can pull this out is if we hit them over the top. I think the book is out on the Vols (I think it's actually on its third printing). Stack the box, take away the short stuff, and make JG beat you. Is he capable? Yes, we saw it last year against Auburn. Will he do it? We have a decent size body of evidence that says odds are against it. We simply don't have the hosses on the LOS to force our will on opponents, especially SEC caliber opponents, yet.
On the defense side of the ball, I almost think Frank's going down was the worst thing that could happen. Trask seems to be be the more accurate passer and we've proven that given enough time, our secondary folds like a cheap tent in a tornado. The only way we stop them is to get creative with the blitz. We simply do not have the hosses to get pressure on the QB rushing four.
In summary, I think the following must occur to pull out the win:
We must punish them for stacking the box by breaking a long run or two and throwing it over their heads. The WRs must get off press coverage and make difficult catches, and out fight Florida dbs for the ball. The line must hold up against the Florida rush and not make stupid assignment misses like KY yesterday letting a DE go unblocked.
We need to win the turnover battle. We need to force some errant throws and pick a couple off. A defensive touchdown would be nice but putting the offense in a short field is critical. If we turn the ball over, we will lose and probably lose badly.
We need to tackle well. This has been a concern of mine the first three games. If we allow the FL backs and receivers to break through tackles and get 3, 5, 9 yards (or more) after contact, it will be a long day.
We need to score TDs when we get into the red zone and not have to settle for three.
We must win the special team game. Our return game needs to be good, again shortening the field but our coverage teams need to be good. Florida has always fed off long returns. We can't allow a special teams TD.
Can we beat them? Absolutely. Will we beat them, doubtful in my mind. I need to see more than a beat down of a hapless UTC team before I think we have much of a chance in the swamp.
