ESPN’s Football Power Index is back at it and has made predictions for Week 2’s slate of games. One of the more notable games in the SEC this weekend is the matchup between USF and Florida and according to the FPI, Florida has an 82.7% chance of winning.
The Bulls showcased that they are a team to watch this year after their opening game against Boise State. The Broncos had high expectations to maintain their play as the best Group of Five team in college football, but USF dominated them at home, 34-7. They could give the Florida Gators their first big challenge of the season.
In comparison, the Gators played Long Island University to open the year and dominated the Sharks in the Swamp, 55-0.
The keys to this game are the offenses. Byrum Brown was injured last year but is already in mid-season form and seems like a difference-maker under center for the Bulls – especially with his ability to run the football. The Gators need this game to keep moving forward as one of the best teams in the SEC, thanks in part to the pure amount of talent on the roster. The Bulls’ defense could have issues slowing down DJ Lagway and the Florida offense, with a rushing attack led by Jadan Baugh and a group of dangerous wide receivers. And even though the Bulls are playing well, the Gators still have more talent on defense, which will cause them issues.
Not to mention, The Swamp is one of the best home environments in all of college football, so having this high of an FPI prediction in the Gators’ favor makes a lot of sense. Let’s see if the Bulls have any fight in them on Saturday.
