The Florida Gators are cranking back into preparation mode as a season-deciding matchup with the arch-nemesis Georgia Bulldogs is coming fast.
The Gators are well-rested after a bye week, following their road victory against the South Carolina Gamecocks to bolster its two-game win streak and head into the World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party with plenty of momentum.
CBS Sports released its weekly power rankings of FBS teams and the Gators surprisingly made it into the top 25, claiming its stake at No. 21.
Senior writer Dennis Dodd agrees that a win in Jacksonville on Saturday could determine the post-season for the Orange and Blue.
“Going into Week 9, the Gators control their own destiny in the SEC East,” Dodd said. “If they win it, they’ll earn it. Georgia is next in the Cocktail Party followed by Arkansas and consecutive trips to LSU and Missouri.”
Georgia slipped a spot to No. 2 after its bye week and unfortunate loss of tight end Brock Bowers, questioning who will step up to take his place.
“The Bulldogs head into the second half without Brock Bowers (for now).” Dodd wrote. “Who will step up against an improving Florida this week in the World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party?”
Kickoff for the grudge match between the Gators and Bulldogs is slated for 3:30 p.m. EDT and will broadcast on CBS Sports.
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