In a thrilling matchup at Davis Wade Stadium, the Florida Gators showcased their offensive prowess with a commanding 45-28 victory over the Mississippi State Bulldogs. The game was a display of Florida’s balanced attack, combining an efficient passing game with a strong ground presence, which left Mississippi State struggling to keep pace.
First Quarter: A Balanced Start
The game began with both teams testing the waters, exchanging blows in the first quarter. Florida struck first with a methodical 13-play, 84-yard drive, culminating in a 3-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Graham Mertz to tight end Arlis Boardingham. This drive set the tone for Mertz, who would go on to deliver a stellar performance. Mississippi State responded quickly with a 9-play, 62-yard drive capped by a 1-yard touchdown run by Davon Booth, tying the game at 7-7 with just 21 seconds left in the quarter.
Second Quarter: Florida Takes Control
The second quarter saw Florida seize control of the game. Mertz connected with Marcus Burke for a 20-yard touchdown early in the quarter, pushing the Gators ahead 14-7. The Gators’ offense then struck again in rapid succession, with Mertz finding Hayden Hansen for a 35-yard touchdown pass just a minute and a half later, extending the lead to 21-7.
Florida continued to apply pressure, with Ja’Kobi Jackson capping a 10-play, 91-yard drive with a 10-yard touchdown run, putting the Gators ahead 28-7. Mississippi State managed to narrow the gap before halftime with a 3-yard touchdown run by quarterback Blake Shapen, ending the half at 28-14.
Third Quarter: Mississippi State Fights Back
The Bulldogs came out strong after halftime, determined to close the gap. Shapen connected with Jordan Mosley for a 13-yard touchdown pass, bringing Mississippi State within seven points at 28-21. However, Florida quickly responded with an 8-play, 75-yard drive, culminating in a 1-yard touchdown run by Mertz, restoring their 14-point lead at 35-21.
Fourth Quarter: Florida Seals the Victory
In the fourth quarter, Florida’s offense continued to dominate. The Gators embarked on a 93-yard drive, which ended with an unconventional 0-yard touchdown credited to Austin Barber. Mississippi State attempted to mount a comeback, with Johnnie Daniels scoring on a 10-yard run to make it 42-28. However, any hopes of a Mississippi State comeback were dashed when Florida kicker Trey Smack drilled a 47-yard field goal with just over two minutes remaining, sealing the 45-28 victory.
Offensive Standouts
Graham Mertz was the star of the game, completing 19 of 21 passes for 201 yards and three touchdowns. He also contributed on the ground with 24 rushing yards and a touchdown. Mertz’s precision passing was complemented by a strong rushing attack, led by Montrell Johnson Jr., who gained 68 yards on 15 carries. Freshman Jadan Baugh also made an impact with 53 rushing yards on just four carries, showcasing Florida’s depth in the backfield.
Mississippi State’s offense, while resilient, could not match Florida’s efficiency. Shapen completed 13 of 21 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown, while also adding a rushing touchdown. The Bulldogs’ ground game was led by Johnnie Daniels, who rushed for 77 yards and a touchdown, and Booth, who added 75 yards and a score.
Defense and Special Teams
Florida’s defense played a crucial role in the victory, holding Mississippi State to a 33% third-down conversion rate and forcing a key fumble. Linebacker Trikweze Bridges led the Gators with 10 tackles, while Sharif Denson contributed a sack and two tackles for loss.
On special teams, Florida’s Trey Smack was perfect, hitting all six extra points and the crucial 47-yard field goal late in the game. Mississippi State’s special teams also performed well, with Nick Barr-Mira averaging 40.2 yards on five punts, including a long of 55 yards.
Conclusion: A Statement Win for Florida
The victory improved Florida’s record to 2-2 on the season and 1-1 in SEC play, while Mississippi State fell to 1-3 overall and 0-1 in the conference. Florida’s balanced attack and defensive resilience were on full display, providing a blueprint for success as they navigate the rest of the season. The Gators will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
