Well Gator fans, the big day is almost here! I am sure it has been an arduous 365 day journey for most Gator fans, especially Florida residents, who have been tomahawk chopped and speared nearly to death since last year’s loss to bitter rivals Florida State.This Saturday the Florida Gators (6-5) will finally get a chance not only to redeem themselves from what many fans are calling a horrible first season for new Head Coach Will Muschamp, but retribution for last year’s embarrassing 31 -7 loss to their bitter rival, the Florida State Seminoles (7-4). Interestingly enough, this is the first time these rivals, Florida and Florida State, have ever met on the field unranked, thus enhancing the importance of victory in the eyes of both the Gators and the Seminoles. The Florida Gator’s lead the overall rivalry with record standing at 33-20-2, the question is… which team wants victory the most?

​Florida secured bowl eligibility last week with a victory over the Furman Paladins that was, needless to say, exceptionally hard fought. However, all of UF’s play makers and potential play makers are healthy and ready to feast upon some ‘Nole meat. This is the first time that the Gators are finishing below .500 in conference play since 1986; needless to say, the pressure is on. Expect some big things out of Senior QB John Brantley, and Senior RB Chris Rainey, both will be playing in their final home game at Florida Field. Eyes will certainly be on the Gator defense to keep UF relevant throughout the game, they certainly have something to prove after last week’s sub-par performance when they allowed the Paladins 233 yards total and 5.3 average rushing.

​The Seminoles (7-4 and 5-3 ACC) are coming off a heartbreaking loss to Virginia, which obviously raises the stakes for the Seminole Nation. Coach Jimbo Fischer has no intention of losing to his old coaching buddy Will Muschamp (Both coached under Nick Saban at LSU. They even shared a beach house on the Florida Panhandle).  For the Seminoles to secure victory, pass blocking will be crucial. Linebacker Nigel Bradham will be the player to watch on the Seminole Defense, proving himself a savvy play maker all season long. On offense, Seminole QB E.J. Manual has worked his mojo this year with 2352 yards passing, and 16 TD’s for the Tribe; he will be looking to put a tomahawk in the Gator’s hopes for redemption.

​ Will Chief Osceola have tears streaming down his cheeks at the end of Saturday’s game? Or will the Tribe in Tallahassee be frying up some Gator Tail for dinner. What it all boils down to is who wants this victory more… Winner gets bragging rights; loser gets 365 days of shame.