Thoughts on Gators win over LSU, not a time to sleep on Vandy

Florida Gators head coach Will Muschamp celebartes after the Gators beat the LSU Tigers 14-6 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. (Jake Roth-US PRESSWIRE)

Last week was the most excited I had been about a Gator win in over four years. Going into the season I picked Florida to lose four games; however, after the first four games and the start Will Muschamp and Co. had gotten off too, I began to believe that we could beat LSU. On Monday prior to the showdown, I thought the game could be close. By Wednesday, we had a good shot. As Saturday came around, I knew we were going to win. I had spent all week convincing myself that UF was legit; maybe the team did the same thing.

It was an excellent game. The Gators didn’t look spectacular early, but played great defense and kept it close. Then, as they have done all season, they pounded the rock with Gillislee and won the game. It was the happiest I’ve been watching a Gator game since…well, I can’t even remember. I was so happy that I actually shed a couple of tears. The Gators were back.

This week, it is important that the team not rest on their laurels and take Vanderbilt lightly. Jordan Rodgers tore the Gators up last year, and is the type of quarterback that can extend plays and frustrate pass rushers. It is important that the defense continue to play disciplined. The offense must continue to pound the rock, as the Commodores have one of the worst rush defenses in the league. While the Gators have absolutely dominated this series, this is not a game to sleepwalk through.

As he always seems to do, Coach Muschamp gave the quote that defines this team for the week. He said, “To this point, very well, as far as understanding approaching each game the same. We’re not going to put any more hours in as coaches this week than we did a week ago, we’re not going put any less either. We’re going to prepare very similar to what we’ve done thus far in the season, as far as what we’ve got to do to be successful and that’s winning the football game.” It was the exact type of quote that shows you how focused this Gators team really is. Let’s just hope it translates onto the field this Saturday.

Swampland >> Gators pass tough test, learn how to win grinding games

What do you think Gamedayrs?