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Florida and Florida State was once a proud conclusion to the regular season that often served as an elimination game for the national championship. It hasn’t been that way for a while now. At times in the last decade-plus, one team has played a dominant season while the other has flailed, and, much like this season, there have been times where both programs were down on their luck.

The pride these days comes from playing the in-state rival and having bragging rights for another year. Last year, Florida State capped their perfect regular season with a 24-15 win in the Swamp. But what does this year hold?

The following are our staff’s predictions for the 2024 Sunshine Showdown.

Brian Fox: For just the second time this year, the Seminoles are riding the momentum of a win and this time it’s to face rival Florida. Unfortunately, for the guys from Tallahassee, the momentum Florida has gained after back to back wins over ranked teams and on the recruiting trail (including flipping three former FSU commits) is far more significant. Florida has the better talent across the board and the game shouldn’t be close. ESPNBet opened the week with Florida as a two touchdown (14-point) favorite, but the line has grown to 17. If Florida plays they way they have the last few weeks, this game won’t even be that close. Frankly, Billy Napier needs this win and to do so by as much as possible. Florida, 38-10.

Ryan Friedwald: It’s rivalry week. I despise FSU and nothing makes me happier than seeing them be this bad. Florida has zero excuse to lose this game and I don’t think they will. The momentum for the Gators are at an all time high and FSU is just bad. Florida by a million . Florida, 35-10.

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The Gators and Seminoles will kick off from Doak Campbell Stadium at 7:00 PM. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN2.

What do you think the final score of the game will be and why? Share your thoughts in the comments or on social media.