Gasparilla Bowl – Syndication Server

Gasparilla Bowl 2024 gets lackluster postgame ranking from CBS Sports

It is hard to argue against the Gasparilla Bowl being a stinker, but hey, the Gators won big-time and that’s all that matters.

It has been over three weeks since the dust settled inside Raymond James Stadium, where the Florida Gators trounced the undermanned Tulane Green Wave in the 2024 Gasparilla Bowl, 33-8.

It was a matchup that was generally overlooked at the time — and for good reason. Tulane had lost to the Memphis Tigers on the final weekend of the regular season and the Army Black Knights in the American Athletic Confernece championship game coming in while Florida had won three in a row — two over ranked teams.

Before the game was played in Tampa, CBS Sports writer Brad Crawford ranked the Gasparilla Bowl at No. 28 in his list of bowl games. He returned on Monday to revise his ranking, dropping the matchup six spots to No. 34

“Torched by the transfer portal, the Green Wave’s best players were absent and it showed,” Crawford begins. “The AAC’s runner-up was smashed by a streaking Gators team under Billy Napier and freshman quarterback DJ Lagway, who overcame a couple turnovers to win the game’s MVP honors inside Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.”

The highest-ranked game on the 41-game list was the double-overtime Peach Bowl matchup between the Texas Longhorns and Arizona State Sun Devils in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinals. The lowest was the New Mexico Bowl between the TCU Horned Frogs and Napier’s previous program, the Lousiana Ragin’ Cajuns.

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Everything Billy Napier, Florida players said after Gasparilla Bowl win

Florida head coach Billy Napier, quarterback DJ Lagway, wide receiver Chimere Dike and defensive lineman Desmond Watson spoke to the media after winning the Gasparilla Bowl.

The Florida Gators capped off the 2024 season with a dominant win over the Tulane Green Wave, 33-8, in the Gasparilla Bowl.

Quarterback [autotag]DJ Lagwa[/autotag]y, wide receiver [autotag]Chimere Dike[/autotag] and defensive lineman [autotag]Desmond Watson[/autotag] joined head coach Billy Napier at the podium for a post-game press conference. Here’s everything they said following the postseason victory.

Opening Statement

Napier: “First of all, what an incredible event. I thought that the staff with the Gasparilla Bowl was first class. I’ve been a part of a lot of these bowl games, and I would say that — just a great week, great experience for the staff and the players, and very efficient.

“A ton of credit to Tulane. They’ve got a really good football team. I think for them to play in a conference championship and bounce back and come in, and obviously they didn’t make it easy at times, especially in the first half. I have a ton of respect for Coach Sumrall and their team and how they competed.

“It was an awesome environment. For our fans to come out the way they did, it felt like a home game in there. To be in Tampa, to see Gator Nation out there in full force was special.

“The last thing I would say is obviously this senior group, we’ve overcome some things early in the year. We would have not been able to do that if we didn’t have an incredible group of seniors. And I do think for our team, just talking to them last night, there was an obligation. You could feel it in the room like, hey, let’s make sure that we handle our business here and send these guys out the right way. We did.

“We were sloppy early. I know you have some questions about that. Obviously, red-zone struggles, few too many penalties. We had a lot of different pieces in different spots. I think overall, we created some takeaways, played really good defense, and in general just weren’t able to capitalize in the red zone possessions.

“So, great week, great to finish the right way and just really proud of our team and these players.”

On first-half struggles

Napier: “I just think we were a little rusty on offense. I think we had some miscommunications and then we had a few penalties. We had some procedure penalties, and then ultimately the game came down to the red zone, where Tulane did a good job.

“But also, I think we could we could do things a little better. We had the penalty. We had the sack. But yeah, just a few mistakes here and there. And then, the penalties obviously were a factor.”

On finishing the season out strong

Napier: “When you’re in these leadership positions, you realize you’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with. We’ve got good people, and I think obviously the staff did a great job. Go back to the first month, I think we came out of that, the collaboration between the staff and the players.

“Hey, look, I would tell you I was so impressed with how the players were transparent and how they took ownership, how they were critical of themselves, coming to the table with solutions, with ideas, and I think we learned a lot about ourselves. I think that could have easily went sideways multiple times throughout the year, but I think they stayed the course.

“I was having a conversation with a good friend of mine last night. The roster gets in the right place, the development, the football piece starts to work and then culturally it starts to look the way you want it to. Then all of a sudden, you’ve got confidence and belief and you feel like you can play with anybody. Ultimately, that’s what happened, probably halfway through the year this year.

On four-game win streak

Napier: “Momentum is a real thing in college football. It’s real on game day and it’s real throughout the calendar. To win four in a row, and in impressive fashion, especially the two home games in the second half of the year against two really good teams. I’m thankful for our seniors, man. I mean, you just go down this list.

“I just spent two minutes embraced with Montrell Johnson. We got Graham Mertz, Jeremy Crawshaw, Ja’Markis Weston, Ja’Quavion Fraziars, Chime Dike, Des Watson, Brandon Crenshaw-Dixon, Derek Wingo, RJ Moten, Cam Jackson, Jason Marshall, Elijhah Badger, Triwkeze Bridges.

“There’s some talent on that list, but that’s not what I immediately think about. When I say every one of those guys, I think about who they are as people and what they brought to the table every day, the example that they set. So, sending them out the right way, I think it was really important.”

On coaching change rumors early on

Napier: “You got an obligation to the people you lead, and we weren’t doing that good enough. We weren’t doing that well enough. Ultimately, this is a production business. They love you when you win, and they hate you when you lose, right? So we learned that a long time ago.

“I think for me, it really causes you to recenter daily on purpose, and I think the purpose is the players and obviously for me there’s a faith foundation that I think has been an anchor for me throughout my career. But in the most challenging times, it’s probably what keeps you focused on the things that are most important.

“From a leadership standpoint, you have an obligation to make decisions and try to correct. And I think ultimately that’s what I would say.”

On first-half turnovers

Lagway: “I was just playing bad football and not taking care of the ball, seeing plays that I thought to make, just forcing it. So I just came out in the second half, my guys rallied around me. It’s just a blessing to have amazing teammates, the coaches and everybody rally behind me and fix things in the second half.”

On near 100-yard receiving day

Dike: “I wanted to be a part of it and finish it off the right way. I think that the adversity we went through in the beginning of the season really brought this team close. Guys like DJ are the reason I want to play in this game, and I’m so excited for their future.

“Coach Napier has done a great job of leading our team. He’s somebody that is a role model for each and every person on our team. Not only the coach he is, but the leader he is and the man he is.

“Obviously, I just want to go out there and play well and I think I was able to do that, and I’m just glad we’re able to win.”

What did you bring to the press conference?

Dike: “A Jake Slaughter jersey. That’s another dude like, I mean, selfless guy. Works his tail off. Committed to the program. He asked for a jersey swap and it was instant. Got it up off me. So, I’m gonna be hanging this up in my house one day.”

On Desmond Watson lifting Tulane runner up

Napier: “One of the reasons we’ve been able to turn it around is we’ve played really good defense down the stretch. Today was no different. We stopped the run, we made him one-dimensional, we kept the shots in front of us. I thought we did a good job tackling on the perimeter.

“Look, it starts with guys like this, right? Have you ever seen a 400-plus guy run the ball before? To be a consistent championship contender, you got to play really good defense and I think we struggled to do that, probably the first two years and a month.

“Then I think we went to Tennessee, and probably that from that point forward started to play really good defense and that obviously starts up front with these guys striking blocks. And Des has been right in the middle of that run defense.”

How did Des coming in on offense come about

Napier: “Final game of the year. We’re going back home to Tampa. Plant City right down the road. Been thinking about it the whole year, and Des has played really good.

“So, bowl games are, you’re looking for buttons to push, right? I think this one helped our team. You saw that sideline light up when he ran out there. Yeah, a lot of fun and he did a great job. I think the guys rallied around him and all those were successful plays.”

Would you have put him in near the end zone?

Napier: “It was actually a goalline package. We just never quite got there, and I finally made a decision. I was like, look guys, the next time we have a short yardage situation, we’re running the package, the hawk package tonight — that’s his high school mascot.”

Watson: “It was great. Since I came to college, every time I go on the internet I see somebody saying I should be on some type of package getting the ball, especially because I wear 21, a running back number. I never really looked too much into it. I never went to Coach Napier about it, but I feel like he seen it too. It’s a great moment to finish off my career as a Florida Gator like that.”

Napier: “I sent Des a picture of the play. We started out, we just had a run where he was a blocker and we had a play-action pass where he was kind of the decoy. And then just watching our players, when we put that package, the guys were like, hey, give him the ball, coach, give him the ball. And we literally put the play in on the field at practice. So, yeah, a heck of a way to finish his career.”

What’s more fun, running the ball or picking the runner up on defense?

Watson: “I think running the ball. That’s something I haven’t done in years. I feel like tackling people is routine, or picking people up like that is something that is routine. So I feel like something I haven’t done in year is more fun.”

What was DJ’s reaction to the play?

Lagway: “We already knew what it was when we got third-and-short, so we already knew. We were happy and excited to see what he was going to do.”

Can you catch the ball?

Watson: “I can do it all. I like to tell my teammates when I do something more athletic than they expect me to. I just look like this. I can do it all.”

On younger players contributing

Napier: “It was one of the exciting things about the game is you had a lot of players that were going to play a bigger role in the game. Kam Waites, Bryce Lovett, and obviously KD Daniels.

“I do think on defense, like my Machai Boireau, D’Antre Robinson, Tarvorise Brown. I think LJ (McCray) got more snaps. Myles Graham. I thought Aaron Chiles flashed a lot today. And in the back end, I think we were able to get some guys some reps.

“So, not only the ones that have been playing a bit of a big piece of the puzzle like DJ, Jadan, those guys, but I think a lot of those freshmen and young players played big, had good days and. It’ll be important for them. The experience is so important going forward today.”

On defensive performance

Napier: “You look and have really six takeaways (three interceptions, three turnovers on downs), and I think we could have had control of the game earlier if we played cleaner on offense, if we get touchdowns in the red are. But look, you’re going to have days like that. It’s why you play complementary ball.

“Trey Smack was outstanding, right? If I’m right I think he kicked four field goals. I told DJ, I said, listen, what if we score touchdowns on all those possessions? We’d have a lot more points right now. But it’s good. I think it’s been part of the way we found a way to win. All three parts of the team have to contribute and today was no different.”

On Slaughter and Austin Barber returning

Lagway: “I feel really good about that. Just having veteran O-lineman blocking for me. It’s always great. Just have that chemistry already. When I heard about it, I was really excited to get back to work with those guys and just build on where we started.”

On first year as a Gator, ups and down

Lagway: “It’s just a blessing to be in Orange and Blue. Having an amazing fanbase as we do and just being coached by Coach Napier and coach O’Hara on the developmental side. I’m just excited for the future.”

Did this game motivate you for next year, expectations for 2025?

Lagway: “It gave me an edge, definitely. It’s a bad taste in my mouth, you know, that performance. So, it’s going to be straight working this offseason. I’ve got to come harder than I did last offseason. So, I’m going to have some goals, personal and for the team. It’s going to be a great offseason.”

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Good, Bad and Ugly from Florida’s win over Tulane in 2024 Gasparilla Bowl

Looking at the good, bad and ugly aspects of Florida’s Gasparilla Bowl victory over Tulane to finish the season with eight wins.

Florida football won its first postseason game since 2019 and the first of the [autotag]Billy Napier[/autotag] era on Friday against the Tulane Green Wave in the Gasparilla Bowl. The Gators nearly pitched a shutout in this one, grinding their way to a 33-8 victory inside Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

It was not the most exciting matchup, but the win gave the Orange and Blue an 8-5 final tally for the 2024 campaign after surviving a schedule that was among the toughest in the sport this fall. Florida kept Tulane scoreless until a touchdown with just 0:29 remaining spoiled the first shutout since 2021 in an overwhelming display of defensive domination.

It was a satisfying conclusion to an unexpectedly exciting college football campaign for Napier and Co. The Gators Wire crew provided their takeaways in a good, bad and ugly format following the game now that the final horn has sounded on the season.

Florida’s defense was outstanding today

GOOD: Florida’s defense was absolutely outstanding today, almost shutting out their opponent to give the Gators their 12-straight win over the Green Wave. The corps may have only had one sack, but it also grabbed a trio of interceptions while holding Tulane to 194 total yards (just 62 yards in the first half).

The one touchdown and two-point conversion came against bench players, for what it is worth.

Also give a gold star to Trey Smack, whose four field goals (in four attempts) set a new Gasparilla Bowl record. Of course, earning the win is in itself worthy of the “good” category as well.

BAD: Florida’s red zone offense was weak, being forced to take the field goal instead of pushing across the goal line in three of five the first five visits inside the 20-yard line while getting a TD once. At least points were put on the board, but it felt like a lot more were left off.

Also, Lagway did not necessarily have a terrible game — his numbers were perfectly solid — but he certainly seemed off at times, and both of his interceptions were very ill-advised. Additionally, it looked like he simply stopped planting his feet when he threw, which led to a few errant throws and those picks.

Sure, Tulane put some pressure on him, but his first half was a bit puzzling. He did manage to earn the MVP award thanks to a much stronger second half.

UGLY: Man alive, this game was a pure snoozefest — the first half was downright painful. Members of the media who ranked this game near the bottom of the bowl game roster made the right call. The overall officiating also left a lot to be desired, but hey, a win is a win. — Adam Dubbin

Another incredible display of defense

GOOD: Another incredible display of defense. I might sound like a broken record here, but this Florida defense looks like a completely different unit out there compared to the first few games of the season.

The Gators’ defense held Tulane to just eight points and 194 total yards, including only 23 in the second quarter. Florida also did a good job of generating multiple turnovers. The Green Wave gave up three interceptions, one to defensive back Trikweze Bridges, defensive back Alfonzo Allen Jr. and inside linebacker Myles Graham.

If this defense can continue this play heading into next season, the Gators have a chance to become a serious threat in the SEC.

BAD: DJ Lagway’s rusty first half. Lagway did not look like himself at all today, especially in the first half. He just didn’t look comfortable out there and he missed on some of his throws including the deep balls, which is one of the strongest aspects of his game.

The freshman threw two interceptions in the first half, one of them coming in the end zone that took away a Gators touchdown opportunity. At least in the second half, he looked more comfortable. I don’t think nerves played a factor in this game but rust might’ve had something to do with his poor play in the first half.

Nonetheless, Lagway threw for over 300 yards, set a single-game Gasparilla Bowl record, and did enough for the Gators to win.

UGLY: Red zone offense. The Gators just couldn’t find a way to get the ball in the end zone when they got in the red zone. They had six red zone opportunities and had two touchdowns.

When they called run plays, the running backs struggled to get yardage and when they called passes, Lagway struggled to hit an open receiver. Luckily, kicker Trey Smack was able to knock down all of his field goals to help the Gators point points on the board but it was a bit shaky for the Florida offense today. — Aidan Gallardo

Walk-on touchdowns are a beautiful thing

GOOD: Florida has played inspired football since the first month of the season, and it’s a big positive to see this team close out the year on a four-game win streak against mostly winning teams (sorry, not sorry, FSU).

While this might not have been DJ Lagway’s best game, he still put up decent numbers and led the team to several scoring drives in the second half. I’m not worried about the two picks at all.

Of course, the defense deserves its typical weekly praise, even if the walk-ons couldn’t hold the shutout intact. Keeping a conference championship-caliber club under 200 yards of total offense is the ideal way to build confidence going into the offseason.

BAD: I’m not of the mind that scoring points on 5-of-6 red zone drives is a bad thing, even though touchdowns are more desirable than field goals. Instead, I’ll point to Florida’s nine penalties. Okay, let’s call it eight because the team absolutely deserved to mob the end zone and celebrate with Rubio. Walk-on touchdowns are a beautiful thing. A reserve defensive back committing a late pass interference call is forgivable, too.

But the false start, two holding calls, personal foul, offsides and roughing the passer were all avoidable. Billy Napier has preached discipline for the entirety of his tenure as head coach at Florida, and this was not a disciplined performance. Something to work on for next year.

UGLY: Tulane looked lost on offense for most of the night, so the ugly goes to the Green Wave’s quarterback Ty Thompson. I know this is a guy who’s spent the year as a third-string option, but maybe he’ll reconsider his transfer portal decision after this performance.

He certainly didn’t help himself out with three interceptions, but maybe Tulane doesn’t want him back after this either…. You lie in the bed you make, I guess? — David Rosenberg

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Five key factors in Florida football’s Gasparilla Bowl win over Tulane

Taking a look at the factors that helped the Gators secure a near-shutout victory against Tulane in the Gasparilla Bowl.

Florida football finished their 2024 season on a high note, as they defeated the Tulane Green Wave, 33-8, in the Gasparilla Bowl.

Although the Gators won, it looked as if they were leaning more on the side of trying not to lose. It was sloppy, ugly and unlike the well-executed Florida team that was displayed in the final stretch of the regular season.

It wasn’t necessarily pretty for head coach Billy Napier and his Florida football squad, but they found a way to get the job done. DJ Lagway did not look like himself in the first half, but the defense and special teams delivered when the Gators needed them.

The Gators head into the new year with their heads held high and a ton of momentum on their side.

Here are five key factors that contributed to Florida football’s win over Tulane.

Defense wins championships?

The Gators’ defense held Tulane to 194 total yards including just 23 in the second quarter. When compared to the first few games to now, this defense looks like a completely different unit.

Not only did Florida limit Tulane to minimal yardage, but they were able to come up with multiple interceptions.

On Tulane’s first play, Florida defensive back Trikweze Bridges came up with his second interception of the season. On Tulane’s second offensive drive in the third quarter, Green Wave quarterback Ty Thompson’s pass was tipped up in the air and intercepted by defensive back Alfonzo Allen Jr.

In the fourth quarter, the Gators were able to come up with another interception. Inside linebacker Myles Graham came up with Florida’s third interception of the game.

Despite the Florida offense not playing their greatest today, their defense came through and allowed just eight points.

Shaky first half doesn’t affect DJ Lagway

Even though it wasn’t Lagway’s best performance this year, he did enough to secure the win for Florida.

Lagway did not look like himself in the first half, missing on throws and struggling to connect with his receivers on the deep balls. That’s something that is typically the strong part of his game.

Lagway threw two interceptions in the first half, one of them coming in the end zone that took away a Gators touchdown opportunity. But in the second half, he played much better and did a good job in limiting the turnovers.

The freshman finished the game throwing for 305 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions. His 305 passing yards set a new Gasparilla Bowl single-game record.

Nonetheless, Lagway was able to do enough for the Gators to come out with the win. He was also named the Gasparilla Bowl MVP.

Trey Smack kept smacking the field goals

Florida kicker Trey Smack was automatic today, going 4-for-4 on field goals including a long of 44 yards.

With his four field goals, the junior set a single-game Gasparilla Bowl record.

Smack has continued to be “Mr. Reliable” for Florida this year, drilling 18 out of his 21 (85.7%) field goal attempts. Smack’s longest field goal of the year came against the LSU Tigers when he nailed a 55-yarder.

Dominating time of possession

The Gators had possession for 38:57 of the game compared to Tulane’s possession of 21:03. Part of that was due to the Florida defense forcing quick offensive possessions for Tulane. Another part was due to the Gators taking their time on offense and running as much clock as they can.

Because Florida dominated the time of possession, they were able to maintain control of the game and keep everything steady. Also, it allowed the defense to stay rested and come out physically and energetic every time they stepped out onto the field.

Gator Nation showed out

Florida was able to ride the wave with Gator Nation on their back throughout this game. Florida fans swarmed Raymond James Stadium and it felt like a game in the Swamp.

Tulane did have a good number of fans but they were clearly outnumbered by those of Florida.

Whether it was making noise when the Gators were on defense or cheering on the Orange and Blue when they scored a touchdown, Florida fans played a contributing role in the Gators’ victory against Tulane.

There’s a reason Florida has one of the best fan bases in the country and they put it on full display in this Gators “home” game.

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Three takeaways from Florida’s Gasparilla Bowl win over Tulane

Florida capped off the 2024 season with its first bowl win since 2019, and a four-game streak to close out the year has fans looking forward to 2025.

Despite some early struggles, Florida won the Gasparilla Bowl game, 33-8, against Tulane Friday night.

The win is significant for many reasons. It’s the first bowl win for the Gators under Billy Napier and also the culmination of one of the most up-and-down seasons in Florida football history.

Most fans and pundits wouldn’t believe that Florida could nearly shut out a 9-4 team that made it to a conference championship if asked a month into the season, but Napier managed to turn the program around following the first bye week of the year and it’s been nothing but improvements — save for the Texas game — ever since.

[autotag]DJ Lagway[/autotag], who set a Gasparilla Bowl record with 305 passing yards, has Florida on the rise, but the defense has improved the most over the past three months. Finishing things off with a goose egg is a poetic way to end the year.

Defense puts on a clinic

Even though Florida played without a good chunk of its starting lineup — due to both transfers and injuries — the defense played with a first-string effort. They limited Tulane to 194 total yards and forced three interceptions in perhaps the most dominant performance of the season.

From big Desmond Watson picking up the Green Wave’s running back for a stop to reserve Alonzo Allen Jr. securing a pick, Ron Roberts proved that he’s the miracle worker on the defensive side of the ball. Florida will be just fine without Austin Armstrong next year.

Tulane averaged 2.6 yards per carry and had under 100 yards passing until a garbage time touchdown drive in the game’s waning minutes; against Florida’s walk-on/reserve unit at that.

A little rust from DJ in the first quarter, but vintage Lagway the rest of the way

Lagway didn’t have his best stuff at the beginning of this one. He threw a pair of first-half interceptions but still managed 190 yards on 14-of-22 passing. The second half was far more fruitful from a scoring standpoint, with Florida going field goal, touchdown, field goal on its first three drives. The Gators punted just once, ending the game with a pair of touchdown drives — the second of which was scored by walk-on running back Anthony Rubio.

Chimere Dike went out with a bang, catching six passes for 96 yards, and several young players performed well behind him. Tight end Tony Livingston hauled in four for 58 yards and a touchdown, and redshirt freshman Aidan Mizell also caught four passes for 50 yards. Both figure to be crucial pieces of Florida’s offense next season.

The future is bright in Gainesville under center, and there are plenty of elite receivers coming in to replenish the losses of Elijhah Badger and Dike.

It’s finally great to be a Florida Gator again

It’s been a long time since Florida Gators fans could proudly boast that the team is back, but a four-game win streak has everyone in college football excited about the program heading into 2025. Billy Napier managed to reel in a top-10 recruiting class, and the coaching staff has proven that it’s capable of getting results without starters.

The Gators haven’t had a winning season since 2020, but that’s all in the past now. For those who hung in there “through all kinds of weather,” this has to feel good.

That’s a wrap for the 2024 Florida football season. Until next year, Gators fans!

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What’s at stake in the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl between Florida and Tulane?

The 2024 Gasparilla Bowl will pit Florida against Tulane.

The Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl will kick off on Friday in Tampa, pitting Florida and Tulane against each other for a trophy treasure trove of pirate booty.

The 7-5 Gators will try to close the season, a highly uneven one for coach Billy Napier, on a high note.

Napier did enough to stick around in Gainesville for another year, but a bowl game win against Tulane would give his athletic department just a bit more confidence that he’s the guy to return Florida to national prominence.

While all teams are playing for pride in these bowl games, at least Florida has the chance to do so in front of a friendly Tampa crowd.

As for 9-4 Tulane, coach Jon Sumrall recently earned a major contract extension with the Green Wave after a season where his school was ranked for multiple weeks. Winning the bowl game is a cherry on top for Sumrall.

Tulane being able to close the 2024 season by sticking it to an SEC team in its home state would have to feel great for Sumrall’s group going into 2025. Even if it loses, this team has a lot to be proud of for how the season went.

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Expert predictions for Florida-Tulane in 2024 Gasparilla Bowl

Here are the Gasparilla Bowl predictions from the Gators Wire crew as the big game quickly approaches.

It was a long journey for the Florida Gators, from the college football preseason to the final game of the schedule.

Alas, the Orange and Blue survived the toughest schedule in the sport this fall, earning a 7-5 overall record and a trip to the Gasparilla Bowl in Tampa to face the Tulane Green Wave. The two programs will take the field opposite each other on Friday in a series that UF leads with an all-time record of 13-6-2 dating back to 1915.

Billy Napier and Co. come into this one with tons of momentum while Jon Sumrall’s squad is still smarting from a beatdown in the American Athletic Conference title game against the Army Black Knights. Additionally, the opening of the transfer portal has changed some team dynamics as well.

Ahead of Florida’s first bowl game since 2022, the Gators Wire staff convened to offer their respective takes on this year’s Gasparilla Bowl matchup.

Florida is poised to dominate

The upcoming Gasparilla Bowl offers an interesting matchup between Florida and Tulane. Spearheaded by freshman quarterback DJ Lagway, Florida has hit a late-season stride that should terrify any opponent. Lagway’s arm strength and on-field leadership have been instrumental in Florida’s resurgence, propelling the team to notable victories against top-tier opponents.

Although Tulane boasts a robust defense and a talented running back in Makhi Hughes, they face a significant setback with the departure of their standout quarterback. This adjustment might just be too much to overcome against a Gator squad that’s gaining momentum and cohesion at the right time.

Backed by a surging offense and revitalized team spirit, Florida is poised to not only compete but to dominate in the Gasparilla Bowl, making it a game that Gator fans can eagerly anticipate as a display of Florida’s rising prowess. — Aidan Gallardo

Florida 42, Tulane 21

Lagway soars, defense smothers

Florida is favored by two touchdowns coming into this one despite the stark difference in records. Of course, the difference between the SEC and AAC is night and day, and Tulane got creamed by a top-25 Army squad in the title game.

Additionally, The Green Wave has seen more significant departures into the transfer portal than the Gators. Combine that with Napier and Co’s momentum coming into this one, it should be a slam dunk.

I expect DJ Lagway to put up season-best numbers in this one while the defense smothers an over-matched opponent. The Gators have won the last 11 meetings, albeit the last one coming in 1984. I see victory No. 12 after the final horn sounds. — Adam Dubbin

Florida 38, Tulane 13

Montrell Johnson Jr. will be the stud

This Florida team has done a lot whenever it has a week off, and the extra practices that come with a bowl game should benefit the team greatly. Sure, a handful of players will be missing, but most of the departing transfers aren’t starters and the team was already banged up. Tulane has lost more, too.

This should be a relatively easy win for the Gators, especially if the team plays like it did against LSU and Ole Miss. I’m not sure Adam’s prediction of a Lagway season-best is in the cards — the kid threw for 456 yards and three touchdowns against Samford — but he should still show out.

I’m more inclined to believe that Montrell Johnson Jr. will be the stud here. One last big game for one of Napier’s favorite players. — David Rosenberg

Florida 42, Tulane 17

How to watch Gasparilla Bowl

The Florida-Tulane game starts at 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday, Dec. 20, and will be broadcast on ESPN2.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

Everything Billy Napier said ahead of 2024 Gasparilla Bowl

Here’s what Billy Napier had to offer upon arrival in Tampa on Monday.

The opening kickoff of the 2024 Gasparilla Bowl is just a few days away and ahead of the matchup between the Florida Gators and Tulane Green Wave, the former schools’ head coach [autotag]Billy Napier[/autotag] spoke to the press about his program’s preparations.

A lot has happened since the Orange and Blue wrapped up its regular season with three straight wins, punctuated with a road victory over the Florida State Seminoles to wrap it up. Between the early signing period and the transfer portal, Napier and Co. have had their hands full.

Below is a look at everything he had to offer on Monday upon arrival in Tampa ahead of the Gasparilla Bowl.

On the bowl game preparation

“Yeah, I’ve been very pleased. I think, in particular, the last couple days, pretty sharp this morning, and we basically have executed a Sunday to Wednesday routine, and then we’ll kind of reboot a little bit. We’ll walk through tomorrow and then have Thursday, and Friday play the game. So in general, very pleased with the attitude of the players.”

On what Tulane to matchup

“Yeah, well, first of all, well-coached, I think they’ve got a formula that works for them, you know, from a winning perspective, I think they play really good defense, they’re committed to the run. And I think, you know, Summrall l has had terrific track record as head coach, you know, to compete for the conference championship this year as a first-year coach I thought was impressive.

“And then, you know, familiar with him from his background in the SEC and then certainly watch closely what he was able to do at Troy, so they’ve got a really good football team. I mean, I think in that part of the country, you can put a talented roster together. I’m very familiar with that.”

On excitement of playing in bowl game

“Yeah, I mean, I would tell you, man, our guys were excited when we found out we were going to be in Tampa. It was a big deal and to play on the 20th, I mean we’d be lying if we weren’t happy with that. I think these guys have an opportunity to finish the right way in our state, then be home for Christmas and have a couple weeks off before we get back out in January.

“So good to be in Tampa. Obviously, Gator Nation will be on full display, it’ll be a great opportunity for our fans to come out.”

How much momentum UF has coming in

“Well, in general, I think we’ve, we’ve gotten to a place where we think we could beat anybody, you know. I think this team has a ton of confidence. I think that comes from the work. I think they realize the results that they’ve gotten are because of the mindset and the approach they’ve taken towards the work.

“So we’ve seen that carry over. Lot of other things have happened in a positive light as well. Signing Day went well, I think we’ve been able to retain a huge portion of our roster for next year, and then obviously we’ll be adding a few more pieces here down the stretch.”

On Jake Slaughter’s affect on team

“Well, number one would be his impact on the rest of the team. You know, I think his example, his selflessness, his humility, he’s just a guy who has care for his teammates and then just a very consistent, dependable worker, durable and just a blue-collar guy. But he’s a great communicator, and then I think he has a way about him that inspires confidence to the players around him.

“So I think he’s helped that room as a whole. That room is as healthy as it’s been since we’ve been here, not only the caliber of player but just the culture in that room. And he’s been at the center of that.”

On adjusted transfer portal, early signing day window

“Well, I would tell you, we took one step in the right direction. We didn’t have to go on the road recruiting, and we got signing day moved up. Just imagine if we had just had signing day just a couple days ago, right?

“So I think we literally would be two days away from signing day, right, in last year’s format, so we got that out of the way, then that allows you an opportunity to meet with your players. We didn’t have the conference championship conflict, and certainly that would be a challenge.

“But I think most of the times, those teams are in a good place, you know, and they’re focused on winning that game, and they can kind of transition later on. So look, it’s not perfect. I think there’s some things to consider, but we’ve got a conflict, right? We’ve got an academic calendar that conflicts with, you know, kind of this finding a new home, right? Decide where you’re going to play next year.

“So I’m thankful for the players in our team that decided they’re coming back next year, and obviously we had a really good group decide they’re coming, so look, it’s one year at a time. It’s one team at a time. That’s my attitude towards it.

“So you know, we’ll get this one out of the way, and then we’ll regroup here. January 12, whoever shows up, we’ll coach that group next year.”

On Cam Jackson playing in bowl game

“Well, you know, Cam has been a little bit limited in bowl practice, you know, he got banged up in the Florida State game. But just in general, for him to, you know, finish the season with his team, be around for bowl practice, and obviously he’s a Senior Bowl invite. He’ll be an NFL draft pick.

“But look, these guys enjoy being around each other. I think that’s part of the positive here is, like, you got, you know, sometimes you’ll have a guy pack it up and head off and start training, but I think these guys enjoy each other’s company, you know.

“And I think this team, when we look back at it, I think this ’24 team, what they were able to accomplish, the way they finished, I think would be significant in the future.”

On whether Florida’s finished with retention aspect

“Yeah, I think for the most part. I mean, you know, nothing surprises me anymore. I think we got, for the most part, most of that is done. You know, there’s a handful of things that we got to get resolved, but look, until they show up for class in January, you know, I think it’s not a done deal, right?

“In a perfect world you would have some type of document you could sign that would kind of lock them in, but we don’t have that so, but we gotta, we still have some work to do. We want to add a couple more players to our team, some positions in particular, but in general, I’d say – Mike Hodges is a legendary coach in Georgia high school circles that he used to say, don’t let the 5%, you know, distract you from the 95% that are doing it the right way.”

On Slaughter flying under the radar

“Well, it’s I mean, he started some last year, right? So I think next year is where he’ll really go off, if I had a bet. But look, he finished the year last year as the starter, was somewhat of a returning starter.

“But look, I think the statistics speak for themselves. To be a first-year starter, to be the highest-graded center in the country by PFF, and obviously well-respected out there as a player. So look, Jake’s gonna play this game for a long time, and he ain’t worried about that, I can promise you that, but it has been good to be able to recognize him in front of his peers.

“And, you know, it’s pretty cool to be an All-American, right, and, not many of those and, and he’ll always be able to look back at that and be proud of it.”

How to watch Gasparilla Bowl

The Florida-Tulane game starts at 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday, Dec. 20, and will be broadcast on ESPN2.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

Sports illustrated ranks Florida-Tulane Gasparilla Bowl

Sports Illustrated ranks Gasparilla Bowl matchup between the Gators and Tulane.

Florida football’s matchup with the Tulane Green Wave in the upcoming Gasparilla Bowl is the 17th-best bowl game of the season, according to Sports Illustrated.

The Gators are riding a wave of momentum into the bowl game, driven by freshman quarterback DJ Lagway. His leadership was pivotal in helping Florida string together three consecutive wins to finish out the regular season strong.

Lagway’s emergence as a dynamic playmaker has sparked new hope for Florida’s future, with head coach Billy Napier looking to keep the team’s momentum going into this bowl game and next season.

According to Sports Illustrated writer Zach Koons, the Gasparilla Bowl “already lost some of its luster with standout Tulane freshman quarterback Darian Mensah announcing his transfer to Duke.”

Despite the Green Wave’s starting quarterback not taking part in the matchup, this bowl matchup is still going to be a fun one to watch.

Here is everything Sports Illustrated said about the Gasparilla Bowl.

What SI said about the Gasparilla Bowl

“This game already lost some of its luster with standout Tulane freshman quarterback Darian Mensah announcing his transfer to Duke,” Koons wrote.

“Still, the Green Wave’s defense is still one of the best units in the country, running back Makhi Hughes ran for 1,372 yards this season (10th in FBS) and head coach Jon Sumrall spurned interest from major programs to stay in New Orleans, keeping the program as one of the premier teams in the AAC.”

Koon continued, “Florida still features rising star freshman quarterback DJ Lagway, who helmed wins over LSU, Ole Miss and Florida State to close out the year. If Billy Napier can build off of his team’s performance in the second half of this season, beginning with this bowl game, the Gators may be a team to consider more closely next year in the SEC.”

SI’s top 10 bowl games

This list does not include games from the College Football Playoff.

10. Kinder’s Texas Bowl (Baylor Bears vs. LSU Tigers)

9. SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl (Texas A&M Aggies vs. USC Trojans)

8. StaffDNA Cure Bowl (Ohio Bobcats vs. Jacksonville State Gamecocks)

7. Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl (Marshall Thundering Herd vs. Army Black Knights)

6. ReliaQuest Bowl (Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Michigan Wolverines)

5. Birmingham Bowl (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. Vanderbilt Commodores)

4. Cheez-It Citrus Bowl (South Carolina Gamecocks vs. Illinois Fighting Illini)

3. DirecTV Holiday Bowl (Syracuse Orange vs. Washington State Cougars)

2. Pop-Tarts Bowl (Iowa State Cyclones vs. Miami Hurricanes)

1. Valero Alamo Bowl (BYU Cougars vs. Colorado Buffaloes)

How to watch Gasparilla Bowl

The Florida-Tulane game starts at 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday, Dec. 20, and will be broadcast on ESPN2.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

USA TODAY Sports unanimously picks Florida over Tulane in Gasparilla Bowl

The experts are feeling very bullish about the Gators in the Gasparilla Bowl next Friday.

Billy Napier and the Florida Gators are heading to a bowl game this year after missing out on college football’s postseason in 2023. This time around, the Orange and Blue will be playing in the Gasparilla Bowl for the second time in four years, with the Tulane Green Wave slated as their opponent.

The Green Wave went 9-4 this fall but faltered down the stretch, losing their last two including a blowout loss in the American Athletic Conference title game. The Gators finished just 7-5 but beat a pair of top-25 schools en route to three straight wins to wrap up the regular season.

So how do the experts feel about this game? Who has the edge in this battle between these two bayou-based schools?

USA TODAY Sports picks for Florida-Tulane

Six members of USA TODAY Sports’ writing staff consisting of Scooby Axson, Jordan Mendoza, Paul Myerberg, Erick Smith, Eddie Timanus and Dan Wolken unanimously picked Florida to prevail over Tulane in Tampa.

Gasparilla Bowl game ranking

According to Timanus’ rankings of 35 non-playoff postseason matchups based on what he believes will have the highest entertainment value, the Florida-Tulane matchup in the 2024 Gasparilla Bowl comes in at No. 28.

“The matchup here is a lot less attractive than the records might indicate,” he notes. “The Green Wave’s promising year wound up in a series of disappointments including transfer exits, while the Gators made a surprising push late and will now look to carry that momentum into the offseason.”

How to watch Gasparilla Bowl

The Gators will face the Green Wave in the Gasparilla Bowl held inside Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 20. Kickoff is slated for 3:30 p.m. ET and the game will be televised on ESPN2.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.