The Seminoles (8-3) will be trying to end a six-game losing streak to the Gators (7-4). Florida is unranked facing the Seminoles for the first time since 2004, and has struggled all season, particularly on offense. Meanwhile FSU is in the midst of a season in which it can earn nine wins during the regular season for the first time since 2003 - the last time the Seminoles defeated the Gators.
What to watch for …
Florida's four losses this season have come against teams with dual threat quarterbacks and a solid running game. Florida State QB Christian Ponder is averaging 197.6 yards of total offense, and the Seminoles average 183.4 rushing yards per game - behind an offensive line that UF coach Urban Meyer calls the best they've had since he arrived in 2005. Meyer described FSU kick returner Greg Reid as "great" and said the kickoff and return teams are a primary concern for the Gators. Reid is ranked fourth in the ACC in punt returns and No. 5 in kickoff returns. The Gators' offensive line has struggled to protect QB John Brantley and will face a defense that averages 3.72 sacks per game. While the Gators believe containing the running game is critical, establishing its own running game is also a priority. Junior RB Jeff Demps remains hampered by a foot injury and the Gators are averaging just 161 rushing yards per game, while the Seminoles are holding opponents to 131.5. Florida will again use its three quarterback system of John Brantley, Jordan Reed and Trey Burton, but Meyer said unlike the South Carolina game, the Gators won't panic if things don't start out well and will stick to the offensive game plan no matter what.
