Look for the Gators’ defense to still pack a bite despite seeing a number of elite pieces to the pros. Will Muschamp’s fingerprints were still visible on Florida’s stop unit last season as the team finished fourth in the conference in both total defense (310.2 total yards allowed per game) and scoring defense (18.3 PPG).
This year’s defense is brimming with talent and it should be a force to reckon with again. Leading the way is the duo of Caleb Brantley and end Cece Jefferson.
Team Weaknesses
How the Gators managed to play decent on offense last season was a testament to the quality coaching of first-year coach Jim McElwain. The Gators averaged 23.2 points per game and 334.9 total yards per game. That being said, the Gators will have a number of issues to address in the offseason if they intend to contend in the SEC East. That includes the offensive line, which was a bundle of disappointment in 2015, allowing 46 sacks—sixth most in the FBS.
2015 Team Stats
Category
Stat (Rank)
Points per game
23.2 (#97)
Passing yards per game
206.9 (#80)
Rushing yards per game
128.0 (#107)
Scoring defense
18.3 (#10)
Writer’s Prediction
Florida finishes the regular season with a 8-4 record.
