Tennessee’s avid sports fans are in for a treat as an exciting SEC showdown is on the horizon. With the Vanderbilt Commodores (2-4) and the Florida Gators (3-2) gearing up for action, both teams are eager to bounce back from recent setbacks.

When: October 07, 2023 at 4:00 PM ET

Where: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Florida

Watch: SECN

Vanderbilt Commodores Preview

The Commodores could not hang with the Missouri Tigers in their last game, as they fell 38-21 for their fourth straight defeat. Each matchup seems tougher than the last, with the Gators being another tough test on the road.

They consistently rack up an impressive 371.5 total yards per game, with a substantial chunk of 274.2 yards stemming from their passing game. In contrast, they yield 408.8 total yards to their opponents, with a significant 216.0 yards from passing plays. To turn the tide in their favor, their defense needs to step up.

Their offensive performance is commendable, putting up an average of 24.6 points per game. However, their defense struggles, allowing opponents to score 36.0 points each game. This unfavorable gap must be addressed if they aim to snap their losing streak.

AJ Swann, their quarterback, leads their offense but faces the challenge of ranking 110th in the nation with a QBR of 34.1. Despite accumulating 1,290 yards and 11 touchdowns, he has also thrown seven interceptions. He faces another stern test against a formidable opponent.

Florida Gators Preview

The Gators came out flat against the Kentucky Wildcats and suffered another tough loss, 33-14 in their most recent game. It was already 16-0 to end the first quarter, which they struggled to keep up afterwards.

They distinguish themselves with the remarkable achievement of accumulating a grand total of 392.6 yards, attributing a substantial chunk of 252.0 yards to their passing plays. On the defensive end, they have effectively constrained their rivals to a mere 275.6 total yards, of which 144.0 yards originate from passing plays.

Their offensive unit consistently registers an average of 25.0 points per game, while their defensive line limits their adversaries to a modest 17.4 points. To achieve success, they need to elevate their performance on both sides of the field, with a particular focus on improving their offensive prowess against a weaker defensive team.

Graham Mertz (QB) has an opportunity to take over this game and lead their offense. His QBR has moved to 64.7, which ranks 51st in the league. Expect a big game from him, as they should have the ability to exploit the Commodores defenses.

Betting Odds

Discover the most promising wagering prospects within ZenSports’ Tennessee sportsbook, where college football betting takes the center stage. The Florida Gators are heavily favored, with market analysis indicating an 88.2 percent chance at victory.

Vanderbilt Commodores: +750

Spread: +18.5 (-110)

Florida Gators: -1300

Spread: -18.5 (-110)

Totals: Over 52 (-110), Under 52 (-110)

Photo Credit: © Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports