FSU vs Florida: Rivalry Renewed in Gainesville

The World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party Returns

The 69th edition of the Florida-Florida State rivalry takes center stage as the Seminoles (5-6) visit the struggling Gators (3-8) at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. This storied matchup, while lacking national championship implications for the first time in years, carries massive weight for both programs: FSU fights for bowl eligibility while Florida aims to avoid its worst season since 1979.

Season Context: Two Programs at Crossroads

Both teams enter Saturday's clash with disappointing campaigns. FSU's season has been a rollercoaster, starting 3-0 but dropping six of its last eight games, including a recent 21-11 loss to NC State. Meanwhile, Florida is reeling under interim coach Billy Gonzales after firing Billy Napier in October. The Gators have been outscored 61-0 in their last three games, failing to secure a victory since the coaching change.

Key Players to Watch

Florida's offense will lean heavily on running back Jadan Baugh, who needs just 94 yards to reach 1,000 for the season. His explosive runs (27 of 10+ yards this year) and ability to break tackles (52 forced missed tackles) will be crucial against an FSU defense that has struggled against the run.

On the other side, FSU's high-powered offense features Tommy Castellanos, who leads the nation with 15.46 yards per completion. His primary target, Biletnikoff Award semifinalist Duce Robinson, ranks sixth nationally with 1,021 receiving yards. The duo's big-play ability could exploit Florida's porous secondary.

How to Watch

Date: Saturday, November 29
Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN2
Streaming: ESPN App, Fubo (free trial available)

Predictions and Odds

The Gators enter as slight 1.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 49.5 points. Oddsmakers have made Florida -110 on the moneyline, with FSU matching at -110. Most experts predict a low-scoring affair, with USA Today projecting a 23-20 Florida victory.

"Somebody has to win this game, right?" - USA Today prediction

Rivalry History

Despite current struggles, the series remains one of college football's most intense. FSU holds a slight edge in recent matchups, winning five of the last seven games in Gainesville, including a 24-15 victory in 2023. The winner takes home the Okefenokee Oar trophy, a symbol of supremacy in this border battle.

What's at Stake

For FSU, a sixth win would secure bowl eligibility and salvage what's been a disappointing season under Mike Norvell. For Florida, avoiding a loss is crucial to prevent matching the school's worst-ever winless stretch of 0-10-1 from 1979. Regardless of records, expect emotions to run high as these two rivals battle for state supremacy.