The Sooners knew as early as the day the game was announced that their Cotton Bowl opponent Florida would be without their most consistent touchdown target in tight end Kyle Pitts.
Losing Pitts hampers an explosive Florida offense, but the Gators received much worse news today: they will be without the talents of wide receivers Kadarius Toney and Trevon Grimes as well.
Together, three three account for 68.9 percent of the team’s touchdown receptions on the season, and 54.9 percent of their receiving yards. This is a massive blow to a Florida offense that works almost exclusively through the air. The Gators rank as high as third in the FBS in terms of passing offense, but as low as 79th in terms of rushing offense.
Here is a breakdown of Florida’s receiving touchdowns this season by receiver:
And here’s a similar breakdown for receiving yards:
Especially without his three most electric receivers, Heisman finalist quarterback Kyle Trask will be facing a very tall task in this Oklahoma defense. The Sooners boast one of the best pass-rush units in the country.
Oklahoma and Florida are still scheduled to play on Wednesday in the Cotton Bowl at 7 p.m. CT.
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