Idaho vs Florida: Bold predictions for Gators’ season-opener

In preparation of the Florida Gators’ season-opening game against the Idaho Vandals, Saturday Down South makes some bold predictions for the Orange and Blue, who look to make a strong statement tonight in The Swamp.

Bold Prediction #1: At least four different receivers score a touchdown

As a part of Kurt Roper’s spread offense, quarterback Jeff Driskel will make sure to spread the ball around to the bevy of wide receivers for the Gators. Out of Demarcus Robinson, CJ Worton, Andre Debose, Quinton Dunbar and others, I expect several Florida wide receivers to make an impact tonight with a handful of them crossing the goal line for six.

Bold Prediction #2: Florida’s offense puts up 50-plus points on the scoreboard

After a season where the Gators failed to score more than 35 points once and 20 points during their six-game losing streak, Roper’s up-tempo offense gets the Gators on the board early and often. At Duke, Roper put up an average of more than 70 plays per game. Through the increased number of plays, the Gators showcase their new-and-improved offense in a major way.

Bold Prediction #3: Freshmen defensive backs combine for two interceptions

Last year, Vernon Hargreaves exploded on to the scene as a true freshman, intercepting a pass in his first two games. This season, the Gators have a handful of talented true freshman defensive backs that are expected to receive playing time today – Jalen Tabor, Duke Dawson, JC Jackson and Quincy Wilson. With the immense amount of pressure Florida’s defensive line is expected to put on Idaho’s quarterbacks, there should be plenty of opportunities for these four freshmen to pick off at least a few passes.

Bold Prediction #4: Treon Harris racks up 225 total yards in debut

The hype is building around Treon Harris after winning the backup quarterback job over heralded high-school recruit Will Grier. Harris is a guy who can beat defensives with his arm and his legs, a true dual-threat quarterback. Once he settled in, Harris’ practice reports were extremely positive and Florida fans could very well be looking at the quarterback of the future. Muschamp has said he expects Harris to see time by the second quarter. He’ll live up to the hype tonight, passing and running all over the Idaho defense for 225 total yards in his three quarters of play.  

Drew Laing

Drew Laing will be providing analysis and insight on Florida, Georgia, Missouri and South Carolina.