Jim McElwain apologized to Florida’s fan base after Saturday’s lackluster win over Vanderbilt.

But why?

If the Gators walk off the Georgia Dome turf as SEC champions on Dec. 6, the 9-7 victory over the Commodores will be just that — another tick in the win column without any unnecessary attachments.

Florida’s relentless pass rush following Austin Hardin’s 43-yard go-ahead boot clinched the Gators’ first division title since 2009 and most importantly, kept the team’s dream of a College Football Playoff berth alive with three games regular-season games remaining prior to Atlanta.

How soon we forget what happened in 2013, when this program suffered a homecoming stinker to Vanderbilt during a dreadful 4-8 campaign that many thought would set Gators Football back several years.

Will Muschamp would’ve killed for a game against the Commodores to actually matter and in McElwain’s inaugural season, this one did.

“Sometimes there are games like this,” McElwain said. “Champions find ways to win them.”

Perhaps he’s right.

Largely ineffective throughout against an above average Derek Mason-led defense, the Gators found enough intestinal fortitude to move the football 20 yards in range for Hardin after their previous nine possessions ended with a giveaway or punt.

Wideout Demarcus Robinson, relegated to second-team duties before the game, came up with a pair of crucial receptions off easy reads from Treon Harris — one on a quick curl in front of the corner and the other on a crossing route — when his offense needed it.

The Gators had managed just 39 total yards in the second half before their go-ahead drive.

Backs against the wall, Florida delivered.

“There was a group of guys that gave everything for the Gators and this university,” McElwain said. “I am very proud of them.”

It’s hard to feel good after a win like the Gators had on Saturday, but in the SEC, survive and advance is top priority. Prep work for next weekend’s trip to South Carolina will be much easier knowing the Top 10 ranking is safe and all of this season’s goals are still within reach.