ChompTalk.com

The Florida Gators are set to take on in-state rival Miami Saturday. This is the 57th meeting between the two programs on the gridiron. Miami currently leads the series, 29-27.

Both teams enter the 2024 season optimistic for better days. Last year, Miami finished 7-6 overall while the Gators missed out on bowl season at 5-7.

The following are our staff’s predictions for the outcome of this game. Please, comment on this page or on social media and let us know what you think the final score will be.

Brian Fox: The Gators enter Saturday’s matchup with Miami as 2.5-point underdogs despite playing in the Swamp (per BetESPN). Miami enters with a preseason national ranking inside the top-20 and the hype out of Coral Gables is that this is easily the best roster Mario Cristobal has put together. Florida must limit the damage transfer QB Cam Ward does, but a revamped defense should have the ability to create chaos with a vocal crowd at their aid. I like Florida to pull off the upset(?), 24-20. 

Ryan Friedwald: The Gators need to capitalize on their first drive on both sides of the football. The first offensive drive must be 7 points for the Gators with the defense making a stop when it’s their turn. Miami has always been historically flustered when behind early in the game and with the energy of a sold out swamp, it will be a tough task for the Hurricanes to bounce back if they’re behind. Mertz needs to avoid any easy turnovers and keep his composure against a defensive line that will get pressure on most plays. If the Gators can remain composed, disciplined, and make their tackles, then it will be a tough day for Mario Cristobal and his Hurricanes to storm their way through the swamp. Florida, 31-23.

Aiden Wacksman: The Swamp will be rocking on Saturday and the defense will need to ride that wave. A stop on the first possession is a must to generate momentum on the defensive end and keep the crowd as involved as possible. One of the greatest concerns heading into this game is pass protection, especially considering Rueben Bain’s presence on the Miami defensive line. Guards Knijeah Harris and Damieon George Jr. will need to be playing at their best to create a clean pocket for Mertz. This game will be won or lost in the trenches both offensively and defensively. It will be close, but the Gators should be able to win that battle, especially on defense. Florida, 23-17.

Florida and Miami will kickoff just after 3:30 PM and the game will air live on ABC.