Florida Sports Columnist Pat Dooley Predicts Upsets, reflects on Football’s Demands & Shares Playlist
GAINESVILLE, FL – September 8, 2025 – WRUF.com sports columnist Pat dooley is offering his college football predictions alongside observations on the emotional toll of the game and a glimpse into his personal music tastes in his latest column, ”dooley’s Back Nine.”
Dooley forecasts South Florida to cover a 16.5-point spread against Miami, despite the Bulls facing their third consecutive ranked opponent. He also predicts texas A&M will cover as 6.5-point underdogs at Notre Dame and backs Arkansas to cover the 10-point spread against Ole Miss,citing the Hogs’ strong offensive start against Butch jones’ team.
Beyond the gridiron, Dooley reflects on the intensity required to fully appreciate a football game, comparing it to golf - “Football is like golf. You have to play all the holes to register a final score.” He acknowledges the frustration some fans may feel needing to watch entire games to experience the full narrative. The columnist also highlights the success of the University of Florida’s volleyball team, currently on an ambitious road schedule after a win against Ohio State, while noting a recent setback for the Gators’ soccer team with a loss to Georgia State.
Adding a personal touch, Dooley shares a playlist of songs that would enhance any tailgate, including “Rejects” by Good Charlotte, “A Little Too high” by The Black Keys, and “Mamunia” by Paul McCartney.
Listeners can hear Dooley and jeff Cardozo on “The Tailgate” from 4-6 p.m. Monday-Friday on 98.1-FM/AM-850 WRUF.