Florida vs Tennessee Rivalry – Best Gators Defensive Performances from the 2000′s

Florida Gators safety Ahmad Black (35) tackles Tennessee Volunteers running back Montario Hardesty (2) during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. (Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE)

We kicked off this Florida vs Tennessee series with the best individual offensive game performances by Florida players, now it’s time to get into the defense.

Feel free to share your top all-time performances in the comments below, and rank them how you see fit. We would love to add your opinions into this list.

1. LB Ryan Stamper, 2009

Ryan Stamper put on a show against Tennessee, compiling 12 tackles and a sack to lead the Gators to a 23-13 victory. This was a suffocating defensive effort overall in which no player for Tennessee had a 100-yard effort.

2. S Ahmad Black, 2009

Sticking with the 2009 game, another stand out performance belongs to Florida safety Ahmad Black. No matter where Tennessee tried to go with the ball, Black would be seen making a play. He had 11 tackles and an interception in the victory over Tennessee.

3. CB Janoris Jenkins, 2008

Florida cornerback Janoris Jenkins solidified his status as a shutdown corner in this game. The freshman cornerback had two tackles, an interception and a forced fumble on the day. There are not many games as ugly as this one, as Florida defeated Tennessee 30-6.

4. S Reggie Nelson, 2006

Florida safety Reggie Nelson had two interceptions to lead the Gators defense. Those interceptions proved key as Florida would squeak by 21-20.

5. DT Mo Mitchell, 2003

Florida defensive tackle Mo Mitchell played on both sides of the ball. However, against Tennessee in 2003 he started at defensive tackle. He was the lone bright spot on a poor defensive performance as he had five tackles and a forced fumble. However, Florida would go on to lose the game 24-10.

What do you think Gamedayrs?