The secondary was the weak spot of Florida last season as it finished 11th in pass defense in SEC play. Three starters are back, and Major Wright returns at safety this year. Joe Haden is the best of the corners, breaking up 12 passes last year. Meyer really concentrated his recruiting efforts here and brought one of the best in the nation in Will Hill, who hopefully can contribute right away. This Florida defense will be the determining factor for the Gators national title hopes this season.
Special Teams
The Gators will have a new kicker this season, and it might be true freshmen Caleb Sturgis. Chas Henry is back at punter and had a great 38.7 net average last season. Returner Brandon James is very dangerous on punts and kicks.
Schedule
Florida opens the season with home games against a much tamer Hawaii and in-state rival Miami. The Gators have not had much success against Miami in recent times. From the West, they host LSU and Ole Miss and travel to Arkansas. The big games will be at Tennessee on Sept. 20 and against Georgia on Nov. 1.
The winner of the Georgia-Florida game will most likely be playing in the SEC championship and could be playing in the BCS title. You cannot understate the importance of this game this year.
Final Thoughts
Florida has the most talented offense in the nation and returns the Heisman winner at quarterback. It is paramount that Meyer can find an alternative on the ground to Tebow. The junior cannot withstand the same punishment he did last year. The secondary needs to improve, as well, and there should be a good read on that after playing pass-happy Hawaii in the opener.
Florida has the easier SEC schedule than Georgia, but, until they can find a proven second runner, I have to put them just behind Georgia.
Prediction
Likely Wins: vHawaii, vOle Miss, vKent, @Vand, vCitadel, @Ark
Likely Losses: None
Likely Record: 11-1 (7-1)
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