From the other side, part 2
September 06, 2007
I spoke with Andy Staples, the UF beat writer for the Tampa Tribune, about the game. Here’s what he had to say.
1. How much offensively do you think Florida really showed against Western Kentucky?
Florida held back almost all its designed quarterback runs, which the Gators likely will use a lot this year. QB Tim Tebow is an excellent runner, but UF coaches don’t want to risk injury by making him run when it isn’t necessary. Western Kentucky’s scheme allowed Florida to throw deep often. Troy probably will try to take away the deep pass, which means you’ll see a lot of the short and intermediate section of Florida’s playbook this weekend.
2. What about Florida will give Troy the biggest problem?
Florida will be faster at almost every position. This is the biggest problem smaller schools face against the Gators. Also, Florida will be much deeper. Troy’s starters may hold their own for a while, but when starters for both teams get tired, Florida can rotate in a fresh batch of blue-chippers.
3. Do you think there are any areas of the Gators that Troy can exploit?
Florida’s cornerbacks are very inexperienced, so going deep early might not be a bad idea. Florida didn’t get a very good pass rush against Western Kentucky, so Omar Haugabrook should have some time to throw if the Gators didn’t fix their flaws at practice this week.
4. Do you sense any looking ahead to Tennessee?
Not after Appalachian State-Michigan. This is a bad week to be a major underdog, because the superpowers will have their guards up.
5. What’s your prediction on the game?
Troy can probably pop Florida for an early touchdown, but the Gators probably will pull away by the end of the first half.
