Florida starting quarterback Luke Del Rio injured his knee last week against North Texas and will not play in Saturday’s game at Tennessee.
But it’s not Florida’s offense that Tennessee should be most worried about.
“This is probably the best defense we faced since I have been here,” Tennessee coach Butch Jones said. “They make you earn everything that you get. I have never heard of a team holding another team to 53 yards on defense.”
Florida did just that last week, holding North Texas to just 53 yards of total offense in a 32-0 win over the Mean Green. The Gators lead the nation in total defense, scoring defense, sacks and opponent completion percentage. They’ll provide a stern test for a Tennessee offense still trying to put everything together early in the season.
The Vols slugged out a 28-19 win over Ohio last week, their ninth win in a row. They’ve lost 11 straight to Florida, though, a streak they desperately like to snap Saturday in front of their home fans.
“It’s going to be a great challenge for us,” Jones said. “We have to have a great week of “preparation. I have a tremendous amount of respect for their football team. We have to make tremendous strides moving forward. We are all looking forward to this week of preparation and playing the game on Saturday.”
NOTES, QUOTES
PLAYERS TO WATCH:
–QB Joshua Dobbs: The senior accounted for three touchdowns, two passing, in Tennessee’s 28-19 win over Ohio. Dobbs completed 19 of 27 passes for 203 yards and rushed for 59 yards and a score.
–WR Josh Malone: The junior caught five passes for 69 yards with two touchdowns against Ohio, giving him four on the season.
–DE Derek Barnett: The All-SEC lineman had what Tennessee coach Butch Jones called “his most complete game of the year” against Ohio, recording five tackles, one tackle for loss and two quarterback hurries.