Why the Florida Gators are Primed for a Win Over Florida State

Florida is looking for back-to-back wins over Florida State after the Gators' win over the Seminoles in Tallahassee last year.

The Florida Gators defeated the Florida State Seminoles last season in Tallahassee. | Melina Myers-Imagn Images

The Florida Gators close their season with a pivotal in-state clash against archrival Florida State. Amid head coaching rumors, the players remain locked on the challenge ahead.

With many possibly not returning next season, expect inspired performances and high effort. Meanwhile, FSU must win to secure a bowl berth after early-season highs and lows. Here’s why the Gators are primed to win this important rivalry game and how certain aspects beyond their control could serve as deciding factors.

Linebackers Standing Up

Containing FSU quarterback Tommy Castellanos is critical. His big-play, all-or-nothing style threatens the Gators, especially when targeting Duce Robinson. However, Florida’s linebackers—Myles Graham, Jaden Robinson, and Aaron Chiles—are poised to disrupt his runs and force risky throws.

By shutting down Castellanos’ mobility, UF can anticipate and capitalize on passing mistakes, setting up pivotal defensive opportunities. With the game on the line, the linebackers will be the ones to lead the way, possibly combining for a dozen tackles and at least one game-changing turnover.

Nothing in football is a certainty, but Castellanos will be meeting the Gators.

96 Yards

Jadan Baugh sits just 96 yards shy of a 1,000-yard season, and the Gators intend to make him the focal point. Expect early and sustained carries to ensure Baugh breaks the milestone. This ground-heavy strategy not only rewards Baugh but also creates advantages for his offensive teammates.

"We think about it. We see it on the Internet and stuff. But I'm not too much worried about it," Baugh said after last week's loss to Tennessee. "I'm worried about finishing the mission, finishing with my teammates and sending the seniors out the right way."

For Baugh, a busy game not only solidifies him as the offensive cornerstone but also as a top rusher, so whoever takes the head coaching position, visor or not, will serve as the other half of what constitutes a formidable threat.

Whoever takes the Florida job will inherit one of the best running backs in the country in Jadan Baugh. His lateral explosion and contact balance are unreal. pic.twitter.com/FaLlgLxfqN

— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) November 23, 2025

Farewell

Jake Slaughter and Austin Barber have anchored Florida’s offensive line through adversity. Despite challenges and coaching changes, their commitment never wavered.

"You want to beat your rival. You want to beat your rival," Barber said. "You want to be able to celebrate the last time with the guys that you've been grinding with."

As stalwarts in their final appearance at the Swamp, their unwavering effort and leadership will play a crucial role in the Gators’ push for victory. With a potentially lucrative future awaiting them by playing on Sundays, the duo will take time to give back to the school.

The Fans

Florida fans bring unmatched passion and diversity, fueling the Gators’ spirit at each game. While this season lacked major rewards, the energy from the stands in the finale can provide a vital lift.

As the Gators close out the year, fan support could make the difference, sending both team and supporters into the offseason on a high note.

Final Score: Florida 33, Florida State 27