Anticipation is on the rise for college football betting in Tennessee, with all eyes on the upcoming clash between the Florida Gators and the 14th ranked Utah Utes. This game marks the start of their respective seasons, adding extra allure to this particular matchup.

When: August 31, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET

Where: Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah

Watch: ESPN

Florida Gators Preview

The Gators finished nearly at the bottom of the barrel for the SEC last year, or fifth if you condense it down to just the SEC East. The odds are against them once again, especially with how strong the SEC is this year again.

They averaged 29.5 points per game and averaged 424.1 total yards. The Gators had 49 touchdowns last year and they completed about 54 percent of their passes.

However, they will experience a new face at QB, as Graham Mertz will be the starter. He is a transfer from the University of Wisconsin and has similar numbers on par with what the Gators averaged last season on offense.

On defense, they also ranked 18th in their turnover ratio. They were not great in their running game, as they finished as the 100th best team in running yards per game. With an improved running game through recruiting and a focus on defense, they could be a dangerous team this season.

Utah Utes Preview

The Utes finished fourth in the PAC-12 last year, with a 10-4 record. Surprisingly, they were unbeaten at home through six games.

This is a team that averaged 38.6 points per game and put up 466.9 yards. They landed 73 total touchdowns and completed nearly 65 percent of their passes.

Their offense might struggle since returning QB Cam Rising’s play time is unclear due to a recovering ACL injury. In addition, backup quarterback Brandon Rose is also out with an injury, leaving the Utes to potentially use a third-string to start in the opener.

The Utes also had a solid defense last season, which helps since a lot of returning players are back. They ranked as high as 27th for the best defense overall in the FBS. This will be crucial if they have issues at QB in their first game.

Betting Odds

ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook gives you the best opportunity to bet on the NFL in Tennessee for this matchup. The odds reveal that the Utes are moderate favorites to take over in the season opener at home.

Florida Gators: +260

Spread: +6 (-110)

Utah Utes: -330

Spread: -6 (-110)

Totals: Over 45 (-110), Under 45 (-110)

The Utes have never defeated the Gators in the two times they have played. Last season, the Gators defeated the Utes 29-26 despite the Utes being favored to win by at least three points, which was a perfect example. The Utes could be in trouble if they do not have a good starting QB, especially since Florida has a quality quarterback on hand.

Photo Credit: © Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK