As confusing as 2016 was for the Tennessee Volunteers, one glorious streak came to an end. It was the 11 year streak of wins by the Florida Gators over the Tennessee Vols. Last years game had all the hype in the world behind it. As soon as the final whistle blew in the game vs Ohio, which the Vols won, one thing was on every Tennessee fan’s mind: “We HAVE to beat Florida. HAVE to.” It was probably the most “must win” game of 2016.

Second Half Explosion Takes Care of the Gators

The first half of the game wasn’t good as everyone knows. Their was dropped pass after dropped pass. Nothing was working. Florida was taking care of business. But, the second half started, and the duck started pulling the truck, so to speak. The Vols went on to score 38 unanswered points against the Gators, and won 38-28. That damn streak was ended, and all hell broke lose in Knoxville.

Completely Different Storylines For 2017

With the streak being snapped, 2017’s game vs Florida will be a little different. Sure, its a rivalry game, and you always want to win. But Tennessee is a different team this year. No more Josh Dobbs. No more Alvin Kamara or Derek Barnett. Likewise on the other side, there’s no Teez Tabor, no Alex Anzalone. And most of all, no more Austin Appleby to make fun of. Granted both teams still have talent, Florida has nothing to run their mouth about coming into this game, and Tennessee is still trying to find what works best for them.

It’s not as big of a game as last year, but it will absolutely have big impacts on the SEC East. Quentin Dormady is still trying to settle in, and Felipe Franks was just rancid in his first start as a Gator. And seeing as how their week 2 cupcake game got cancelled, Florida A) still hasn’t scored an offensive touchdown, and B) hasn’t been able to get Franks anymore live game reps. This could be a bad thing for Florida, even though Tennessee’s defense is clearly lacking in some areas.

Keys To Victory For The Vols

This is a winnable game for the Vols. Florida clearly isn’t much on offense. Yes, they have a strong defense, but I think Tennessee can put points on the board. If the defense can hold the Gator offense to under 21 points, Tennessee might get the win. If the Vols can have a balanced attack with John Kelly, and Quentin Dormady, I like the Vols chances.

In the end, I think Tennessee takes this game, even though I predicted it to be a loss. Florida has shown zero life on offense, and having Antonio Callaway and Jordan Scarlett on the bench again won’t help. Tennessee breaks through, and wins, 31-13.

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