Video: Florida sets Outback Bowl record with 85-yard touchdown pass
There wasn’t much offense generated in the first half of the Outback Bowl, but Florida came through with a record-setting play in the closing minutes before halftime.
Backed up at their 15-yard line, the Gators ran a simple screen pass to Mark Thompson, and the running back did the rest. Breaking five tackles along the way, Thompson sprinted down the left sideline for an 85-yard touchdown.
Mark Thompson takes the screen and goes 85 yards on his way for a Gators TD?? pic.twitter.com/Zrbtm6F3SZ
— Florida Gator Latest (@UFupdates) January 2, 2017
Austin Appleby’s 85-yard pass was the longest in Outback Bowl history and broke the record previously held by Georgia’s Aaron Murray, who threw an 80-yard touchdown pass to Tavarres King in 2012.
Thompson’s touchdown gave Florida a 10-3 lead, which is good news for the Gators. Under Jim McElwain, Florida is 14-1 when leading at halftime. The only loss came earlier this season against Tennessee.