Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The talk of Florida’s play last week was its defense and how the unit looked to be much improved from 2020. It wasn’t exactly bad against Tennessee on Saturday night, but it did leave quite a bit to be desired.
The Vols got on the board first with a screen pass to running back Tiyon Evans that went for 47 yards and a score with numerous missed tackles from the Gators in the process. Then, in the second quarter, quarterback Hendon Hooker found an uncovered JaVonte Payton for a 75-yard touchdown.
Florida didn’t have Kaiir Elam, who was ruled out with a knee injury he suffered last week. Jason Marshall started in his place, and UF’s corner depth was tested big time. It didn’t fare particularly well, as sophomore Mordecai McDaniel allowed the Payton touchdown on a blown coverage.
All in all, the Gators allowed too many big plays. Running the ball was Tennessee’s strength heading into the game, and it totaled 148 yards (led by Jabari Small with 59), but the real problem for Florida was the air attack. Hooker was just 13 of 23, but he threw for 221 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions.
The Gators did well outside of those big plays, and Tennessee was just 5 of 13 on third down, which also helped. But Florida’s susceptibility to the big play allowed this one to stay much closer than it should have been in the first half.
