After stifling LSU’s offense last week, the Florida Gators now face the daunting task of containing one of the nation’s top quarterback-receiver tandems.
The SEC’s reputation for producing NFL talent is well-deserved, and this depth of skill is why Florida’s schedule has been considered one of the toughest in the country. This season, the Gators have already faced elite quarterbacks like Garret Nussmeier, Carson Beck, and Quinn Ewers, as well as top-tier receivers such as Isaiah Bond and Kyren Lacy.
However, their toughest challenge yet may come this weekend when they take on Ole Miss stars Jaxson Dart and Tre Harris.
Dart has been phenomenal this season, ranking third nationally in passing yards (3,409), passing yards per game (340.9), and yards per completion (16.16). He’s also tied for ninth in passing touchdowns with 22. Even more impressive is his ability to protect the football, having thrown only four interceptions all year.
Dart’s dual-threat capabilities add another dimension to his game. He’s second on the team in rushing yards (304) and tied for second in rushing touchdowns (3), making him a dangerous all-around player.
But Dart isn’t the only threat. The Ole Miss receiving corps is stacked with talent, including Jordan Watkins, Antwane Wells Jr., and Cayden Lee. However, the standout is Tre Harris.
Harris has been a nightmare for defenses, tallying 59 receptions for 987 yards and six touchdowns in just seven games. His averages—16.7 yards per catch and 141 yards per game—are staggering. Despite missing three games, Harris still ranks fifth nationally in total receiving yards, and head coach Lane Kiffin confirmed he is expected to play on Saturday.
Florida, however, faces significant challenges in their secondary. Jason Marshall Jr., Ja’Keem Jackson, Devin Moore, and Asa Turner have all been ruled out for the game, thinning an already depleted defensive backfield. While Moore’s absence is particularly disappointing, there is still potential for others to step up.
Trikweze Bridges made a game-sealing play against LSU with a crucial fourth-down pass breakup, while Dijon Johnson delivered a key fourth-down tackle early in that game. Additionally, the Gators have found consistency at the STAR position with Aaron Gates and Sharif Denson.
Despite their injuries and limited depth, Florida’s performance against LSU shows they have the ability to rise to the occasion. If they can replicate that effort, they may be poised to secure another upset.
