:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52013143/usa_today_9707453.0.jpeg)
The No. 14 Florida State Seminoles defeated the No. 14 Florida Gators 24-13 on Saturday night in Tallahassee.
The ‘Noles dominated this one from the start with another outstanding effort from running back Dalvin Cook. Cook, in what was likely his last game at Doak Campbell Stadium, rushed for 153 yards and a score against a stingy Florida defense.
Florida quarterback Austin Appleby had another tough outing, completing 19 of 35 passes for just 149 yards. Appleby averaged just four yards per attempt and was also sacked several times.
What we learned
FSU’s defense was the best on the field
Coming into this game, most people said the only way the Gators could win this game was because of their outstanding defense. That’s true. Florida does have a filthy defense, but on Saturday night FSU’s was much better. The Gators managed just 207 total yards, many of which were ‘empty calorie’ yards accumulated in the final minute. Florida State’s front four applied consistent pressure on all Appleby all game long, often forcing him into quick throws.
Florida should find more ways to get Antonio Callaway the football
Florida sophomore wide receiver Antonio Callaway caught six balls for 58 yards and had one carry for 24 yards against the ‘Noles. Overall, Calloway had 82 of Florida’s 207 total yards. So, why didn’t UF’s coaching staff find more creative ways to employ Callaway? That’s been the question all season long. After a big start in the season’s first three games, Callaway hasn’t caught more than four passes in one game since Week 4 until Saturday. If the Gators have any chance of beating Alabama next week, Caldwell will need to touch the ball 12-15 times.
Florida is no match for Alabama
In all fairness to the Gators, how many teams can hang with the defending champs? Usually, teams with athletic, dual-threat passers such as Clemson’s Deshaun Watson give Alabama’s defense the most trouble. While Appleby isn’t necessarily a statue, his legs are no match for the Crimson Tide’s ferocious defense. Expect a lot of checking down next week against the Tide.