KYLE TRASK

Baker Mayfield might have moved closer to claiming Tampa Bay’s starting quarterback job without even taking a snap in the Buccaneers’ 13-6 preseason victory over the New York Jets.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers third-string quarterback John Wolford was taken to a hospital because of a neck injury after being carted from the field after being sacked in a preseason game against the New York Jets on Saturday night.

Baker Mayfield is excited to have an opportunity to try to win Tom Brady’s old job with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

No. 11 Florida has successfully transformed its offense from a finesse passing attack into a formidable ground game.

Alabama looked beatable.

Bryce Young’s first collegiate road start was a rousing success, a three-touchdown performance that helped top-ranked Alabama hold off No. 11 Florida 31-29 in the Southeastern Conference opener for both teams.

Some Southeastern Conference defenses are flexing their muscles after 2020 being a defensive coordinator’s nightmare.

No. 13 Florida tuned up for the start of Southeastern Conference play with a 42-20 rout of overmatched South Florida that did little to answer the question of whether starter Emory Jones or backup Anthony Richardson is best suited to run the Gators offense.

Emory Jones’ first career start included a touchdown pass, two interceptions and a 35-14 victory against Florida Atlantic on Saturday night.

IT’S GAME WEEK!

Florida’s defense was historically bad last season, so dreadful at times that fans were clamoring to fire everyone.

Emory Jones first landed on Dan Mullen’s recruiting radar seven years ago.

The Southeastern Conference still has its usual array of potential national title contenders, even if the quarterbacks have changed.

Florida’s most prolific offensive trio in decades, maybe even in school history, is gone.

Tom Brady and the Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened the NFL preseason with a 19-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Florida coach Dan Mullen puts a positive spin on losing his three best offensive playmakers.

Tom Brady is back on the practice field with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

With spring practice wrapping around the SEC, it’s time to take a look where programs stand coming out of spring.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have selected Kyle Trask in the second round of the NFL draft and will groom the Florida quarterback to potentially become Tom Brady’s successor.

Not much changed on the second night of the NFL draft.

The Denver Broncos wrapped up the second day of the NFL draft by using a compensatory pick to take Ohio State linebacker Baron Browning with the 105th overall pick.

Nine former Florida Gators are thought to have a great chance at having their named called during the 2021 NFL Draft. While Kyle Pitts, Kyle Trask, and Kadarius Toney headline the group, several others set up a deep draft for the Gators.

The 2021 NFL Draft week is here! As many as ten former Florida Gators could hear their name called Thursday through Saturday.

Greetings, Gators fans!

(AP Photo/John Raoux, File)GAINESVILLE, Fla. – There was no shortage of Kyle Pitts highlights at Florida’s pro day Wednesday, from his measurables to his moves to even his mindset. It was a refresher course for anyone who watched the versatile tight end play last season. Pitts and several teammates — most notably quarterback Kyle Trask, cornerback Marco Wilson and receivers Kadarius Toney and Trevon Grimes — worked out for talent evaluators from 31 of 32 NFL teams. AdIt’s still entirely possible for Pitts to be the highest-drafted tight end in the modern era (since 1970). “He’s a different bird than what a traditional tight end has been or certainly has been when I played,” said Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell, a tight end who played 11 NFL seasons.

If the intrigue for the Jaguars' first pick isn't that great, what about for their second first-round pick? This week on News4Jax.com, we take a closer look at positions they might target and a player or three that should be on the Jaguars' radar.

Ad“I think there are concerns with coaches (regarding) what the future of college football is going to look like. Former Florida and Ohio State coach Urban Meyer left the broadcast booth to join the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars, becoming the third college coach in as many years to make the move. Mullen has spent nearly three decades in the college ranks, including the last 16 years in the powerhouse SEC. Ad“There are probably some times I said things that, you know, maybe regrettable, maybe didn’t come off the right way, maybe got interpreted a different way," Mullen said. He has three years remaining on a six-year, $36.6 million contract that makes him the 10th-highest-paid coach in college football.

The next game he plays is for his NFL draft stock, provided the Alabama quarterback's gimpy left ankle is good to go. Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy said the plan is for Jones to dress out and see how his ankle feels. “Just being in that room, I already learned so much about NFL football,” he said. Mond started 44 games for the Aggies, Ehlinger logged 43 starts for the Longhorns,Mond led the Aggies into College Football Playoffs contention in his final season. I just wanted to come and kind of learn more about NFL football and learn a new playbook, which I thought I did a good job with.

Kyle Trask, Kyle Pitts, Kadarius Toney, Trevon Grimes, Stone Forsyth, Brett Heggie. Those are important pieces from the 2020 offense that won’t suit up in orange and blue in 2021. David Waters, Will Miles (Read and Reaction) and Nick Knudsen (American Football Stories, Read and Reaction) discuss just how different the 2021 Gators’ offense will look led by Emory Jones and a stable of running backs. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Florida running out of tunnel during the Gators' game against the South Carolina Gamecocks on Saturday, October 3, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Hannah WhiteThe 2020 college football season is over. A season that was in doubt at one point, had some good and some bad for the Florida Gators. David Waters and Will Miles (Read and Reaction) take one last look back at the 2020 season as they review their preseason predictions. Also, the guys where various publications rank the 2021 Florida squad in early rankings for next season. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Two Alabama teammates, quarterback Mac Jones and wide receiver DeVonta Smith, join Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence and Florida quarterback Kyle Trask as the finalists for the 86th annual Heisman Trophy. Passed for 3,739 yards and 32 touchdowns against just four interceptions in the Tide’s 11 games heading into the playoff. His four 400-yard passing games this season are more than any other Alabama quarterback has produced in an entire career. TREVOR LAWRENCE, junior, QB, ClemsonBIO: Lawrence has looked ready for a Heisman Trophy moment ever since arriving at Clemson before the 2018 season. He really shined this season, leading the nation in passing yards (375 a game) and touchdowns.

Ohio State won 49-28. “This team, this program, we persevered through so much,” Ohio State running back Trey Sermon said Monday. In addition to Sarkisian's imminent departure, Alabama has to take care of some Heisman Trophy business while preparing for the matchup with Ohio State. Ohio State (7-0) won that meeting en route to the national title. OHIO STATEOverview: Like many teams, Ohio State faced major obstacles during the pandemic.

And with that, Lawrence’s bid to finish an extraordinary college football career with his second national championship in three seasons slipped away. 2 Clemson in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Sugar Bowl on Friday night. “Obviously they kicked our butt tonight," Lawrence said. Lawrence is one of four finalists, along with Alabama QB Mac Jones, Crimson Tide receiver Davonta Smith and Florida QB Kyle Trask. Still, he'll be remembered as one of the faces of college football — on the field and off — during a tumultuous junior year.

(AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Florida quarterback Kyle Trask made his future plans official Thursday, formally announcing he’s declining an opportunity to return to school and entering the NFL draft. No one thought Trask would stick around following a record-breaking season that included being named a Heisman Trophy finalist. He led the nation in passing yards and TD passes. He broke the previous school record (39) for TD passes (39) set by 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel. Fellow defensive tackle Zachary Carter, meanwhile, announced plans to return to school for his senior season.

In this Dec. 12, 2020, photo, Florida quarterback Kyle Trask throws a pass against LSU during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Gainesville. University of Florida’s star quarterback Kyle Trask posted on Twitter on Thursday that he was declaring early for the NFL draft. Trask is also a finalist for the Heisman Trophy -- a daunting task for the three-star recruit who fought to get a starting job with the Gators. He passed 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel for the school’s single-season touchdown record with No. Wuerffel called Trask after the crushing loss and reminded him that the Gators lost their regular-season finale in 1996 before rebounding to win it all.

David Waters gives instant reaction to Florida’s blowout loss to the Oklahoma Sooners. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

8 Oklahoma beat 10th-ranked SEC runner-up Florida 55-20 on Wednesday night in the Cotton Bowl. Back in the same NFL stadium where 11 days earlier they won their sixth consecutive Big 12 title, the Sooners (9-2, No. The 55 points were their most ever in a bowl game, while piling up a Cotton Bowl-record 684 total yards. 1 Alabama in the SEC title game, and had averaged nearly 42 points a game. Oklahoma: With Rattler and Mims among the young standouts coming back, the Sooners could again be favored to win another Big 12 title.

That BCS National Championship game 12 seasons ago was the only meeting between the No. While outside of the College Football Playoff, it will be the first New Year's Six bowl game played in this pandemic-affected season. 6 CFP) are back in the NFL stadium where they won their sixth consecutive Big 12 championship earlier this month. 12 Iowa State in the Big 12 title game on Dec. 19, opted out to focused on the NFL draft. Rattler was the first-team AP All-Big 12 quarterback after throwing for 2,784 yards and 25 TDs, the most nationally for a freshman.

Florida head coach Dan Mullen speaks with players before the first half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game between Florida and Alabama, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, in Atlanta. 8 Sooners (8-2) will again end the season in a New Year's Six bowl game against a high-powered SEC offense. 10 Florida, which leads the nation in passing though its offense suddenly looks quite different because of some late departures. The Sooners go into the Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium having allowed only a combined 57 points their last four games — their best such stretch in six seasons. They have recorded nearly five sacks a game in that span while holding opponents to 303.8 total yards per game.

Lawrence, the likely first pick in the next NFL draft, made AP All-America for the first time in his career. ___The 2020 AP All-America team:FIRST TEAMOffenseQuarterback — Mac Jones, junior, Alabama. Running backs — Najee Harris, senior, Alabama; Breece Hall, sophomore, Iowa State. Guards — Ben Cleveland, senior, Georgia; Tommy Kraemer, senior, Notre Dame. Safeties — Kyle Hamilton, sophomore, Notre Dame; Tykee Smith, sophomore, West Virginia.

Gators take on Sooners in DallasDavid Waters breaks down the Cotton Bowl match-up between Florida and the surging Oklahoma Sooners. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)Alabama teammates Mac Jones and DeVonta Smith along with Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence and Florida’s Kyle Trask have been named finalists for the Heisman Trophy. Jones, a former Bolles star and Jacksonville native, and Smith are the eighth set of teammates to be finalists together since the tradition started in 1982. Jones leads the nation in efficiency rating (202.34), completion percentage (76.5) and yards per pass (11.4), with 32 touchdown passes. Jones or Smith would become Alabama’s third Heisman winner, but first that is not a running back. Iowa State running back Breece Hall was sixth, followed by Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields, BYU quarterback Zach Wilson, Notre Dame quarterback Ian Book and Florida tight end Kyle Pitts.

Florida Gators wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) pushes off Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back DeMarcco Hellams (29) during a return in the fourth quarter of the 2020 SEC Football Championship at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA on Saturday, December 19, 2020. [Matt Pendleton/Special to the Sun]2020 showed just how close Florida and Dan Mullen are to winning a SEC Championship, but at the same time, it showed just how far Florida has to go as well. David Waters is joined by Will Miles (Read and Reaction) to discuss just how far the Gators are. Also, the two share their first thoughts on the Cotton Bowl matchup vs Oklahoma. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Florida Gators quarterback Kyle Trask (11) is consoled after the Gator loss by Florida Gators quarterback Emory Jones (5) at the 2020 SEC Football Championship at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA on Saturday, December 19, 2020. [Matt Pendleton/Special to the Sun]It was a valiant effort against the number one team in the country, but the Gators fall to the Crimson Tide 52-46 in the SEC Championship. David Waters is joined by Nick de la Torre (Gators Territory) and Graham Hall (Gainesville Sun) to look back at the Gators effort and just how close they were in upsetting Alabama. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

(AP Photo/John Bazemore)ARLINGTON, Texas – Oklahoma is going right back to the stadium where the Sooners just won their sixth Big 12 championship in a row to play SEC runner-up Florida in the Cotton Bowl. Oklahoma is in the Cotton Bowl for only the third time, its first since a 41-13 loss to Texas A&M on Jan. 4, 2013. The Cotton Bowl will be played two days before Alabama faces No. Pitts announced is turning pro and won't play in the Cotton Bowl. Tim Tebow was the Florida quarterback for the national championship win over Oklahoma on Jan. 9, 2009, in Miami.

Florida tight end Kyle Pitts (84) makes the catch ahead of Alabama linebacker Christian Harris (8) during the second half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Florida standout Kyle Pitts, the team’s best player and the top tight end in the country, is turning pro and skipping a potential bowl game. Pitts made his announcement on social media Sunday, less than 12 hours after the 11th-ranked Gators lost to No. He's expected to be the first tight end selected in the 2021 NFL draft and quite possibly a top-10 pick. He's expected to win the Mackey Award given annually to college football’s top tight end and surely will get some Heisman Trophy votes.

11 Florida in a 52-46 shootout for the Southeastern Conference championship Saturday night. “The resiliency this team has shown this season to win 11 games is pretty phenomenal.”After trailing 35-17 at halftime, Florida (8-3, No. The Alabama senior also knocked off a couple of school records, setting new standards for career rushing TDs (44) and overall TDs (54). Florida: The Gators might’ve pulled off the upset if not for some crucial mistakes in the first half. But Florida also had two silly penalties on apparent third-down stops, extending a pair of drives that turned into touchdowns.

11 Florida in a 52-46 shootout for the Southeastern Conference championship Saturday night. “The resiliency this team has shown this season to win 11 games is pretty phenomenal.”After falling behind 35-17 by halftime, Florida (8-3, No. Alabama had won every game in the pandemic-affected season by at least 15 points until Florida gave the Tide a scare. Florida: The Gators might’ve pulled off the upset if not for some crucial mistakes in the first half. But Florida also had two silly penalties on apparent third-down stops, extending a pair of drives that turned into touchdowns.

ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 19: Quarterback Kyle Trask #11 of the Florida Gators rushes in for a touchdown in the first half against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 19, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)Top-ranked Alabama was too much for Florida. 1 Crimson Tide won the SEC championship on Saturday night, holding on to edge No. The last time the teams met in the SEC championship, the Crimson Tide rolled 54-16 in 2016. Najee Harris had five total touchdowns for Alabama (three receiving, two rushing) and Bolles product Mac Jones threw five touchdown passes for the Crimson Tide.

It didn’t take the Gators long to respond on their first drive Kyle Trask found Kadarius Toney for A 51-yard touchdown to knot the game at 7. The Gators defense didn’t have an answer for the Crimson tide Offense. Former Bolles Star Mac Jones picked apart the gators defense in the first half throwing for over 250 yards and 4 touchdowns. Trask Helped the Gators engineer a Touchdown drive just before halftime keeping the game close. Gators Trail Alabama 35 to 17

1 Alabama on Saturday night in the SEC championship game. 7 CFP), Southeastern Conference championship game, Saturday at 8 p.m. (CBS). The senior leads the nation and has already set the school season record for touchdown passes with 40, despite the shortened, SEC-only schedule. FACTS & FIGURESThis will be the 10th time the teams have met in the SEC championship game, with Alabama holding a 5-4 edge. The Tide is going for its 28th SEC championship.

Now, it's on to the league title game in Atlanta as a heavy favorite Saturday night against No. Just this week, Alabama landed what appears to be the top-ranked recruiting class in the country for 2021. Mullen tried to sound a confident tone for the Gators, who were a 17-point underdog to the Crimson Tide. But the Florida coach quickly added that this game is bigger than personal achievements. “It would be great in terms of this year’s team for us to go win an SEC championship,” Mullen said.

Florida and Alabama have met more times in the SEC Championship than any other programs and the tenth time certainly has some high stakes for Florida. After the latest CFP rankings revealed Florida at no.7, there’s been a renewed possibility of a playoff berth with a win over Alabama. David Waters is joined by Kevin Hagan as the two discuss what Alabama brings to the table in Atlanta. David also breaks down the game from his view. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Alabama receiver DeVonta Smith and Florida tight end Kyle Pitts are the real stars of the leagues most potent offenses. Alabama receiver DeVonta Smith and Florida tight end Kyle Pitts are the real stars of the league’s most potent offenses. “He’s great at the point of attack.”Added Smith: “Pitts, he just makes unbelievable plays.”Pitts was in the middle of a cautious and costly decision last week. Pitts is a lock for the Mackey Award given annually to college football’s top tight end. But anyone who has watched even a little bit of Alabama and Florida this season knows who the real stars are.

Gator Nation is still in shock a few days after LSU’s upset of Florida, but the realization of the SEC Championship Game to be played is still there. David Waters is joined by Will Miles (Read and Reaction) as they discuss the fallout of the loss to LSU and the need to try and move on as Alabama looms. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

With the SEC Championship Game next week, and CFP hopes still alive, Florida put together their worst performance of the season as they are upset by LSU 37-34. David Waters is joined by Nick de la Torre (Gators Territory) and Graham Hall (Gainesville Sun) to review and react to the Gators’ poor showing. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

We just missed it,” Florida coach Dan Mullen said. “Boy, his confidence was incredible," LSU coach Ed Orgeron said. Trask and his fellow seniors helped Florida make a successful transition from coach Jim McElwain’s underwhelming tenure to coach Dan Mullen’s championship-centered regime. He fumbled trying to scramble with 10 seconds to play in the half, essentially handing LSU a field goal. Florida had first-and-10 at the LSU 15-yard line when Trask tried to connect with Kadarius Toney near the sideline.

Florida is coming off their worst rushing performance of the season vs Tenneessee, but Dan Mullen doesn’t seem too concerned. David Waters is joined by Will Miles (Read and Reaction) as they break down the Florida running game and discuss how much Florida needs to stick with it vs LSU and Alabama. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

It wasn’t the outcome many expected against Tennessee, but for the first time since 2016, the Gators win the SEC East with a 31-19 victory over the Volunteers. David Waters is joined by Nick de la Torre (Gators Territory) to review the lackluster performance by the Gators. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Kyle Trask threw for 433 yards and four touchdowns, and the Gators beat Tennessee 31-19 on Saturday to clinch a spot in the SEC championship game. “It felt like they threw on every snap.”Playing with a depleted roster, Tennessee (2-6) dropped its sixth consecutive game. Florida stretched a 10-point halftime advantage to 24-7 with a 75-yard drive capped by an 8-yard pass from Trask to Trevon Grimes. “I think they did a great job — Tennessee — throughout the game of giving us some different looks," Trask said. The Tennessee defense stiffened and forced the Gators into a field goal attempt from 53 yards.

6 Florida beat Tennessee 31-19 on Saturday to clinch a spot in the SEC championship game. Tennessee’s defense turned the Gators offense into a one-dimensional attack — but with Trask behind center, it was more than enough. The Tennessee defense stiffened and forced the Gators into a field goal attempt from 53 yards. THE TAKEAWAYFlorida: The Gators reached the SEC championship game for the first time since 2016. Tennessee: The Vols’ six-game losing streak is the program’s longest since starting the 1988 season with six straight losses.

In his third season at Florida coach Dan Mullen has the Gators a win away from the Southeastern Conference championship game for the first time since 2016. Sixth-ranked Florida can clinch the East by beating Tennessee on Saturday, something they've done 14 of the last 15 games in this series. The quarterback was a freshman the last time Florida played for the SEC title, and winning the SEC East has been these Gators' first of many goals this season. As impressive as the performance was, it snapped a school-record streak of nine straight games scoring at least 35 points. “We'll make the decision as we get closer to the game,” Pruitt said.

Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields throws a pass against Indiana during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Columbus, Ohio. 3 Ohio State is playing as much as who will be play playing for the Buckeyes this weekend. Ohio State seems to be on track to play at Michigan State on Saturday after a spike in COVID-19 cases in the program forced a cancellation of last week's road trip to Illinois. If Ohio State has one more game canceled it would be unable to meet the Big Ten's minimum game played to be eligible for the conference title game. UNDER THE RADARNebraska at PurdueNeither team is in the Big West race, but the interesting thing is the Boilermakers (2-3) have won two straight against the Cornhuskers (1-4).

The season is dwindling down and something new with the SEC schedule this season is playing Tennessee in the month of December. Most thought it would be a game that could go a long way in determining the SEC East this season. It can for the Florida side as the Gators can claim the SEC East with a victory. David Waters is joined by Jayson Swain (The Swain Event) to preview the Tennessee Volunteers and how things just haven’t gone right for the Vols this season. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Dan Mullen sees no reason for sixth-ranked Florida to overlook winless Vanderbilt, not with what is on the line for the Gators this season. They're putting up the kind of offensive numbers seen when Florida won its first national title. Mullen also remembers Vanderbilt holding a 21-3 lead the last time his Gators visited Nashville. Vanderbilt (0-6) has never gone winless through an entire season, and these Commodores have a trio of one-possession losses. “They understand week to week we're going to put the best product out there that we can,” Mason said.

Maintaining focus and staying healthy will be the name of the game when Florida takes on Vanderbilt this Saturday at noon. David Waters is joined by Chad Bishop (Senior Editor of Athletic Communications– Vanderbilt University) to preview the Vanderbilt Commodores. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

The Penn State transfer gives all the praise to his mom, Paula Shorter, who moved to Gainesville to stay close to her son and throws him a hundred passes nearly every day. The 6-foot-5 receiver was alone for the first time in his life while he attended Penn State for two years. His freshman year at Penn State was slowed by injuries, and his second season started with weight issues. “He’s a phenomenal player, phenomenal catch, and that’s just a small thing of what he can do. His catch radius is crazy, so he’s a phenomenal receiver, and his catch was pretty fire.”Give mom the credit.

Alright, nation, it’s time to jump onboard Kyle Trask’s bandwagon for the Heisman Trophy. While Florida fans have an appreciation for what Trask is doing, the rest of the country is just now starting to come around. David Waters is joined by Will Miles (Read and Reaction) and Bill Sikes to take a deep dive into Trask’s play so far this season. Also, the trio will discuss Bill’s latest work as he breaks down the relationship between individual All-SEC football players and teams that win SEC Championships. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Another week, another strong performance for Florida QB Kyle Trask. David Waters is joined by Graham Hall (Gainesville Sun) as they look back at Trask’s big night and the defense’s up and down showing. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Arkansas acting head coach Barry Odom, center, watches a stadium video monitor after Florida scored a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Trask repeatedly torched the Razorbacks (3-4), who were without coach Sam Pittman and without much of a chance by halftime. It was the second time this season Trask tossed six TDs in a game. “I think I did a great job of executing and being efficient,” said Trask, who now has an SEC-record 28 TD passes and just three interceptions in six games. He became the third player in school history with at least 25 touchdown passes in multiple years, joining Heisman Trophy winners Tim Tebow and Danny Wuerffel. Florida: The Gators have the offense to beat anyone and the defense to keep everyone in games.

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Florida coach Dan Mullen had a message for his players this week: great teams don’t peak at the midpoint of the season. “If you want to be a great team, great teams get better every single week,” Mullen said. “Great teams don’t peak at the midway point of the season. Great teams peak in early, mid-December, and early, mid-January. If we don’t improve, last week was really irrelevant.”Florida begins the second half of its season against surprising Arkansas (3-3) on Saturday night in the Swamp.

As soon as Florida vs Arkansas was announced with the revised SEC schedule, the first topic brought up was facing former Gators QB, Feleipe Franks. David Waters is joined by Pat Jenkins (The Hill with Pat Jenkins) to preview the Razorbacks as they travel to The Swamp to take on the Gators. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

So much of the 2020 season was built on getting a win vs Georgia, but the Gators can’t stop there. David Waters is joined by Will Miles (ReadandReaction.com) as the two discuss what the win over Georgia means as the Gators move forward and accomplish more of their goals for the season. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

6 Florida could be without standout tight end Kyle Pitts against Arkansas on Saturday because of a concussion. Coach Dan Mullen called Pitts questionable for the game. Pitts spent the rest of the game in the locker room. If Pitts can’t play against the Razorbacks (3-3), Kemore Gamble and Keon Zipperer would fill his role. You look, he goes out and Kemore has a great game.

Finally, Gators fans, after three straight losses to Georgia, the Gators get back on the winning side after a dominant 44-28 victory. David Waters is joined by Nick de la Torre (Gator Country) and Graham Hall (Gainesville Sun) to review how the Gators turned the tide in the rivalry behind Kyle Trask’s big day and an improving defense. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

8 Florida beat fifth-ranked and undermanned Georgia 44-28 on Saturday. The Bulldogs (4-2), who entered the game as 3½-point favorites, were likely eliminated from College Football Playoff consideration and probably have a quarterback competition moving forward. Trask and the Gators took advantage, burning Georgia repeatedly with wheel routes while overcoming a 14-0 deficit. POLL IMPLICATIONSGeorgia likely will fall out of top 10 of T he Associated Press' college football poll for the first time this season. ___More AP college football: https://apnews.com/Collegefootball and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The slide is over and the SEC East title is back in focus. The Gators (5-1 overall and in SEC play) gained the inside track to the SEC East title and gave coach Dan Mullen his first win over his chief conference rival. The Bulldogs had beaten Florida convincingly in two of the past three meetings and jumped to a fast start early on Saturday. The Gators caught back up in a hurry and stomped out Georgia (4-2 overall and in the SEC) after that. Bennett was 5 of 16 for 78 yards, a touchdown and an interception against Florida.

The "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” is one step shy of serving as the SEC East Division title game, with the winner gaining a chokehold on a spot in the league championship game in Atlanta next month. The Gators are averaging 42 points a game thanks to quarterback Kyle Trask, dynamic receiver Kadarius Toney and matchup nightmare tight end Kyle Pitts. The Bulldogs are giving up 16.2 points a game and has been downright dominant in every game outside a 41-24 loss to No. Georgia: QB Stetson Bennett has been far from perfect in the last two games, throwing a combined five interceptions against Alabama and Kentucky. … The Bulldogs are the home team, which means they only got four at Sanford Stadium when the SEC went to a 10-game, league-only schedule.

Dan Mullen has brought the Florida program back to national relevances with only one step remaining… beat Georgia. David Waters is joined by, former Gators great WR and SEC Network analyst, Chris Doering to preview the big, top-10 matchup. Also, Robert Steltenpohl, hops on to dive even deeper to the game and gives a Georgia perspective. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

This is the fourth straight domestic PGA Tour event where a player has tested positive. 8 Florida reported no new COVID-19 positives in the past week, the first time since September the team’s coronavirus numbers have remained steady. ___German soccer club Hertha Berlin says defender Jordan Torunarigha has tested positive for the coronavirus. Torunarigha is the third Bundesliga player to have tested positive in two days. Schalke said an unnamed player had also tested positive ahead of its German Cup game against Schweinfurt on Tuesday.

Florida-Georgia is always a big game no matter the circumstances, but the stakes have been higher in recent years. David Waters is joined by Will Miles (ReadandReaction.com) to take a look at the stakes of this year’s game and what the Gators did on the field this past week to carry over into the game. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

The Southeastern Conference docked Mullen $25,000 on Monday for his role in a benches-clearing brawl against the Tigers on Saturday night. The league also issued half-game suspensions for Missouri linebacker Chad Bailey, offensive lineman Dylan Spencer and defensive lineman Markell Utsey. Missouri linebacker Tre Williams was ejected for a flagrant unsportsmanlike conduct foul and will not be punished further. “There is no place in college football for the kind of incident that took place at halftime of the Missouri at Florida game Saturday night," SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said. Mullen responded by putting on a Darth Vader costume for his postgame news conference, almost welcoming a villain role amid increased scrutiny.

The Southeastern Conference docked Mullen $25,000 on Monday for his role in a benches-clearing brawl against the Tigers on Saturday night. The league also issued half-game suspensions for Missouri linebacker Chad Bailey, offensive lineman Dylan Spencer and defensive lineman Markell Utsey. Missouri linebacker Tre Williams was ejected for a flagrant unsportsmanlike conduct foul and will not be punished further. “There is no place in college football for the kind of incident that took place at halftime of the Missouri at Florida game Saturday night," SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said. Mullen responded by putting on a Darth Vader costume for his postgame news conference, almost welcoming a villain role amid increased scrutiny.

Florida returned to action with their best performance of the season as they dominate Missouri 41-17. David Waters is joined by Nick de la Torre (Gator Country) and Graham Hall (Gainesville Sun) to review the defense’s finest performance of the season while the offense found their way after a slow start. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Florida coach Dan Mullen dressed as Darth Vader was fitting considering his last three weeks. Mullen showed up following a 41-17 victory over Missouri wearing a full “Star Wars” villain costume, complete with a red lightsaber. It was closer to perfect given the coach’s uneven October, which included eyebrow-raising comments about wanting to pack the Swamp — Florida Field, not Dagobah — during a pandemic and questioning an NCAA decision regarding practicing on Election Day. Mullen’s month concluded with a lopsided victory that was marred by a benches-clearing melee at halftime. “Never know with Coach Mullen,” safety Brad Stewart said.

10 Florida returned from a three-week layoff to handle Missouri 41-17 on Saturday night in the Swamp. It could be costly for Florida (3-1), which plays rival and fifth-ranked Georgia next week in nearby Jacksonville. The referee huddled Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz and Mullen near the goal line and then announced the ejections. Missouri defensive lineman Tre Williams, Florida defensive end Zach Carter and Florida linebacker Antwuan Powell were tossed. Florida plays Georgia in the World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, which will be limited to about 18,000 fans.

18 Penn State was upset by Indiana so instead of returning to Happy Valley to host No. 3 Ohio State with an unbeaten record, the Nittany Lions are trying to avoid going 0-2 for the first time since 2013. No Big Ten team has tested Ohio State in recent years like Penn State, though the Nittany Lions haven't actually beaten the Buckeyes since 2016. 3 Ohio State at No. Can they disturb Justin Fields, who was near perfect last week for Ohio State?

Nonetheless, coach Dan Mullen expects his team to be rested and rusty when it hosts Missouri on Saturday night in the Swamp. It begins against the Tigers (2-2), who have won two straight in varying fashion, and continues against rival and No. “We’re itching to prove ourselves that we’re still the same Florida Gators. The Southeastern Conference rescheduled two games because Florida would not have had at least 53 scholarship players available to play. SWAMP SUCCESSThe Gators have won nine straight at Florida Field, celebrating every game at the Swamp since Mizzou thumped them two years ago.

There’s no telling what we’ll see from the Gators on Saturday night after COVID ran rampant through the program the last few weeks. One thing is for certain, Florida is playing and improving Missouri team coming off two straight wins. David Waters is joined by Gabe DeArmond (Power Mizzou – Rivals) to preview the Missouri Tigers. Also, Dave shares listeners expectations for the game. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

With no game again this week, David Waters takes questions from Gators Breakdown YouTube watchers. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

“Third and Grantham” is an often used term when describing Florida defensive coordinator Todd Grantham. After another dismal performance on 3rd down vs Texas A&M last week, the term is only getting used more by fans and rivals alike. David Waters is joined by Will Miles (Read and Reaction) to take a look at the issues on 3rd down for the Gators and also what the history shows us about Grantham’s struggles in that department. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

Florida suffers their first defeat of the season at the hand of Texas A&M after another dismal performance by the Gators defense. David Waters is joined by Nick de la Torre (Gator Country) and Graham Hall (Gainesville Sun) to review what went wrong on defense and another outstanding showing on offense. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

Florida quarterback Kyle Trask (11) pass down field during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game against Texas A&M, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2020. in College Station, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Craft)COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Jimbo Fisher got his first win against a top-five opponent since taking over at Texas A&M. 21 Texas A&M beat fourth-ranked Florida 41-38 on Seth Small’s 26-yard field goal as time expired Saturday. Texas A&M grinded it out on its next drive, passing just once on a 10-play possession capped by a 3-yard TD from Spiller. Florida led 28-24 early in the fourth when Spiller struck again, running 19 yards for a touchdown on a fourth-and-2 play.

4 Florida Gators take their second road trip of the season against their first ranked opponent at No. David Waters is joined by Cole Thompson (Locked On Aggies Podcast) to preview the Aggies. Jimbo Fisher and Kellen Mond lead an offense that can give the Gators' defense more fits. Kyle Trask looks to continue his great year vs a defense that struggled to stop Alabama’s high-flying attack last week. Get Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

Florida quarterback Kyle Trask (11) throws a pass against South Carolina during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux,Pool)GAINESVILLE, Fla. – When Florida quarterback Kyle Trask walks into Kyle Field this weekend, it surely will feel a little surreal. So Trask had plenty of loved ones around him rooting against the state’s flagship university in Austin. On Saturday, some of those relatives might be a little torn between their beloved and 21st-ranked Aggies (1-1) and Trask and the No. Trask was a freshman at Manvel High at the time, in the early stages of a seven-year stretch as a backup quarterback. A year after replacing Franks at Kentucky and finishing with the most TD passes (25) for a Florida quarterback since Tebow’s senior season in 2010, Trask leads the Southeastern Conference with 10 TD tosses in two games.

Florida has had a chance to put the game away in each of its first two wins, but Dan Mullen says the team has had issues closing out games on both sides of the ball. David Waters is joined by Will Miles (Read and Reaction) to look at the closing issues, especially on defense, and other issues as the Gators move ahead to Texas A&M. This episode of Gators Breakdown is brought to you by MyBookie. Bet this football season, use promo code “GATORS” and get a free $20 wager on your first deposit at http://bit.ly/MYB-GatorsBreakdownGet Gators Breakdown merchandise at https://www.ebay.com/str/gatorsbreakdownLISTEN: Catch up on previous episodes of Gators BreakdownFollow David Waters on Twitter @GatorDave_SEC to stay plugged in, or click one of the following to tune in:Megaphone | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Google Play | Stitcher

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Coach Dan Mullen wants his unbeaten Florida Gators to be unrelenting. The unit was even more porous in the season opener at Ole Miss, allowing two touchdowns in the final frame and 613 yards total. But Mullen wants more. He wants a foot-on-the-throat mentality late in games, which is something conference and national championship contenders usually have in common. Ole Miss moved the chains on a third-and-19 play.