OXFORD, Miss. – The Florida Gators (1-4, 0-3 SEC) face a meaningful challenge Saturday evening as they travel to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium to take on the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels (5-0, 3-0 SEC) at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN. Florida is struggling,going 0-5 averaging just 10.3 points in their four true road games, and committing 11 turnovers in their three SEC road losses.
Last week’s 38-7 loss at Kentucky saw sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway benched in favor of freshman Tramell Jones Jr. for the second half, a first for Lagway in his career, as decided by interim head coach Billy Gonzales.
Ole Miss boasts a potent offense, averaging 37.5 points and 489.4 yards per game,ranking fourth in the FBS in total offense. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, a transfer from Ferris State, has thrown for 2,356 yards, 13 touchdowns, and two interceptions. Running back Kewan Lacy leads the ground attack with 912 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, contributing to the Rebels’ average of 183.9 rushing yards per game and 305.5 passing yards.
Despite Florida’s offensive woes, the Gators’ defense has shown resilience, allowing 214.4 passing yards and 132.8 rushing yards per game. However, they will be tested by Ole Miss‘s up-tempo offense.
Florida’s strategy centers on ball security, sustained drives, and slowing the pace of the game.
The game will be broadcast on ESPN with Bob Wischusen on play-by-play, Louis Riddick providing analysis, and Kris Budden reporting from the sidelines. The Gators Sports Network from Learfield will begin pregame coverage at 4:00 p.m. with Jeff Cardozo,transitioning to the broadcast team of Sean Kelley,Shane Matthews,and Tate Casey. A list of GSN radio affiliates is available online.
A replay will air on ESPN on Wednesday,Nov. 19th, from 12:30-3:30 a.m. and again from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fans can also follow senior writer Scott Carter (@GatorsScott) on X for live updates and analysis.Complete post-game coverage will be available on FloridaGators.com Saturday night and Sunday.
