Rapid Reaction: Driskel’s late INT leads to LSU’s GW field goal
By Drew Laing
Published:
Here are some quick thoughts on Florida’s shocking 30-27 loss to LSU.
What it means: Issues are abound in multiple areas. Jeff Driskel’s days as starting quarterback should be over. He made some great throws over the course of the game, but he ultimately cost the Gators the game with a terrible throw on UF’s final drive. Of course, not all of the blame falls on Driskel. The Florida defense continues to blow coverages on 3rd and long plays and wide receivers once again had several crucial drops, including a wide-open reception in the back of the end zone for Tevin Westbrook near the end of the fourth quarter.
What I liked: Special teams play. Debose’s big returns were one of the few positives for the Gators in this game. Back in UF’s hay day, the Gators always excelled in special teams, especially in the return game. Debose gives Florida that added dimension with his return ability and as everyone witnessed tonight, he’s an incredibly valuable asset for the Gators moving forward.
What I didn’t like: The drops. There are a number of things that could fall into the “don’t like” category, but it was the drops once again by Florida’s receivers that stick out. Driskel didn’t have a great game, but he wasn’t helped out by several significant drops. Westbrook’s drop at the end of the fourth quarter is definitely the most egregious of the drops. A catch there by Westbrook puts Florida up four points with just over a minute left in the fourth quarter, likely giving the Gators a win.
Who’s the man: Andre Debose. Simply put, the Gators aren’t even in this game unless Debose has those two big returns.
Key play: Jeff Driskel’s INT around 30 seconds remaining. Florida was driving with a chance to win at the end. Driskel had completed his first two passes and got the ball across midfield. However, the redshirt junior quarterback made a terrible throw on his next pass, staring down his receiver and throwing into double coverage. The interception led to LSU’s game-winning FG.
What’s next: Florida takes on Missouri, who is coming off a rough 34-0 loss against Georgia. A win by the Gators next week still gives them control of their own destiny in the SEC East.
Drew Laing will be providing analysis and insight on Florida, Georgia, Missouri and South Carolina.
