Gators look to continue dominance over Kentucky

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Florida’s 29 consecutive wins over Kentucky is the longest current run in major college football between teams that play annually. The last two meetings between the two schools could’ve gone either way. In 2014 the Wildcats took the Gators to three overtimes before Florida escaped with a 36-30 victory. Last season Florida squeaked by Kentucky with a 14-9 win in Lexington.

Saturday will be the South Eastern Conference opener for both schools and Florida coach Jim McElwain isn’t concerned about what has happened in year’s past.

"The biggest piece to me is that was done by teams before. ... Those streak things, I don't know,” said McElwain. “I think it's something to write about. But really every year's different. Right now it's 0-0. These two teams have never played, and I think that's the key."

McElwain vowed that the Gators offense would be dramatically better in his second season in charge. In their 2016 opener against Massachusetts last week, Florida only averaged 3.7 yards on 29 carries. Florida only held a three point lead heading into the fourth quarter, before ultimately winning 24-7.

Florida has failed to score 30 points in 10 consecutive games, the program's longest such streak since before Steve Spurrier arrived in 1990. The last time the Gators failed to reach 30 points in 11 straight games was in 1979, a winless season.

News and Notes:

-Florida could have four players make season debuts. Cornerback Jalen Tabor and tight end C'yontai Lewis were suspended for the opener for fighting in practice. Freshmen receivers Tyrie Cleveland and Rick Wells were suspended for firing BB guns in a residence hall in July. Cleveland and Wells might not play because of hamstring injuries.

-Florida will honor its 2006-07 men's basketball team, which won back-to-back national championships. Coach Billy Donovan, Joakim Noah, Al Horford and Corey Brewer are among those expected on hand.