SEC Power Rankings: Georgia Loss, Ole Miss Win Shakes Up Top Nine
By Ben Nielsen
Aug 31, 2013; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators quarterback Jeff Driskel (6) throws the ball during the second half against the Toledo Rockets at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the Toledo Rockets 24-6. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
6. Florida Gators
Record: 1-0
Previous Ranking: 5 (Trend: Down)
Last Week: Florida 24, Toledo 6
This Week: at Miami (Florida)
Next Week: Bye
Florida was missing eight players due to suspension, illness, or injury for the opener against Toledo, but it made no difference in the outcome of the game. College football’s best defense smothered what many anticipate will be a very good Toledo offense, allowing just 205 total yards.
Matt Jones was out of the lineup due to a viral infection, so Mack Brown stepped in and rushed for 112 yards and two touchdowns for the gators. Brown and Jones should end up being a very solid running back tandem this season.
Jeff Driskel didn’t necessarily light things up in the passing game. He was an efficient 17-of-22, but threw for just 153 yards and fumbled after a sack in the second quarter. Driskel’s play is going to the be difference in whether or not Florida can finish on top of the SEC East.
In the short-term, Driskel and Florida will try to take care of in-state rival Miami on Saturday.