Two 12-0 teams. #1 vs #2. De facto national semifinal. A rematch of last year’s epic SEC Championship game. Does it get any bigger?
The Gators take on the Tide in what many have dubbed the game of the year. Rarely tested, both teams have been on a collision course for each other for most of the season. Saturday we will find out who can stake claim to being the best in not only the SEC, but most likely the nation.
With the winner playing for it all, emotions will certainly be running high. Alabama is coming off a hard fought, comeback win over Auburn, while the Gators blew out Florida State in Tebow’s home finale.
Despite the loss of Carlos Dunlap to a suspension, the Gators will bring a stellar defense to the table just as they have all season. On the other hand, Alabama will have a real test containing the speed of Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey. If the Alabama defense is unable to keep Demps and Rainey from getting to the edge, it will probably be a long day for them.
Both offenses have been up and down for the majority of the season. The Florida offense has been getting better over the last few games, while the Alabama offense has continued to struggle in the passing game. If McElroy is unsuccessful early, Alabama’s run game could suffer.
Prediction
As someone who watches and analyzes the majority of college football games, I honestly feel that Alabama is getting more credit than they deserve. The defense is solid but the offense is average at best, and that will pose serious problems on Saturday.
McElroy is lacking confidence and is still inexperienced. As the only explosive passing threat, Julio Jones will be shutdown by the best pure cover corner in the nation, Joe Haden. Unless McElroy is able to complete some passes early, Haden will play man on Jones while a safety plays up in the box to support the run.
With all the talk about Florida’s offensive struggles, many have forgotten that Harvin sat out last year’s game due to injury. The receivers that beat Alabama last year will be the same ones taking the field on Saturday.
A lot is on the line for both teams, but those looking for a back and forth slug fest might be disappointed. Florida should be in control from the start, thus marching towards a second consecutive national title with a 27-10 victory.
Notes
In addition to the national implications, this game also holds major weight on the Heisman race. Tebow and Ingram are certainly finalists and big performance by either could go a long way in determining the Heisman winner.
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Article originally posted at isportsweb.com.