Chomping at Bits: Offensive line must rebound for Gators to have success against FSU

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Gators' offensive line looks to rebound: Preseason expectations were low for Florida's offensive line. The unit was expected to be patchwork at best, with very limited starting experience and a lot of new faces. It was certainly the unit that most fans were worried about heading into the fall. However, the offensive line managed to hold up relatively well in big games this year against Ole Miss, LSU and Georgia. After struggling against Kentucky and Tennessee, it seemed the group had turned a corner. The line was noted as one of the "unsung heroes" of the Ole Miss upset.

But, at other times the expected cracks have shown, primarily over the last three games. Against Vanderbilt, South Carolina and Florida Atlantic, the Gators have only averaged 121.3 yards a game rushing and 304.6 total yards. Treon Harris has also been sacked 11 times in those games. Perhaps the grind of the long season may have gotten to some of the younger players on the line as it wore on. If the problem is just energy, as has been mentioned, one would assume that wouldn't be an issue against rival Florida State this weekend. (Robbie Andreu, Gainesville Sun)

"This game (the energy) should be there. If it's not there, in a game like this, really there's more to worry about than just the effort level with the guys." - Florida tight end Jake McGee

Saturday's rivalry game could have recruiting impact: Many, many recruits will be on hand in the Swamp when Florida hosts Florida State this weekend, including several who are considering both schools. (Brendan Sonnone, Orlando Sentinel) A running list of the more than 50 prospects that will be at the game includes 2016, 2017, and 2018 recruiting targets, and current Florida commits. (Zach Abolverdi, Gainesville Sun)

Florida's injuries will test depth: Eleven players were listed on this week's injury report; nine of whom were listed as questionable, or worse. (Graham Hack, Florida Times Union; Jesse Simonton, Miami Herald)

Gators face challenge with FSU running back Dalvin Cook: Jim McElwain and the defense talk about Cook having the "it" factor, with Jalen Tabor calling him the "best running back in college football." (Graham Hack, Florida Times Union)

Mike White is not ruling out changing the starting line-up: Florida could make some changes on the heels of a disappointing loss to Purdue, in which the Gators surrendered their most points in regulation in five years. (Chris Harry, GatorZone)

Florida women's basketball routes Savannah State: The Gators notched their third consecutive victory by dominating the Lady Tigers 99-34. (GatorZone)

UF President Kent Fuchs to serve as Honorary Mr. Two Bits. (Scott Carter, GatorZone)

#FSUHateWeek:
Who is going to the game this weekend? If you are, I am incredibly jealous of you. Be loud! Anyone else doing anything fun for the game, or the holidays?

Also, I'd like to wish (an early) Happy Thanksgiving to all of you and your families!

The comments are yours.