Regressing in Gainesville  

In Gainesville, it’s a regression. Florida looked hapless in a 23-7 loss to Oklahoma. Both teams are now 5-4 and the Gators looked like they were still being coached by Billy Napier. It’s actually John Sumrall, and he’s fed up. “I don’t have a lot of words that are going to make this right” Sumrall said after the loss, wanting to get back to work. “Am I frustrated? Yeah. Am I disappointed? Yeah, but I am not going to whine and complain. None of that is going to help us.”

Blocking would help. Remember when I asked if Jaden Baugh was a Heisman candidate? That would clearly be a NO. Florida can’t block SEC teams.  The Gators have quarterback questions. Starting Tramell Jones did not solve the problem, completing just 10 of his 22 passing attempts against an Oklahoma defense that harassed the Gators all night. After a lot of exuberance following a fast start, Florida fans are now seeing how much of a rebuild it will take to get the Gators back to a contender for an SEC title. Florida needs to close ranks, regroup and make their way to a decent bowl game. The Gators finish by traveling to Kentucky, then facing Vanderbilt and Florida State. Wins in two of those three games would mark a good first season for Coach Sumrall.

I saw far too many referees while watching college football this weekend. The replays are just too long, and all of the biggest plays were too scrutinized. I disagree with Miami Coach Mario Cristobal that Miami was robbed against Notre Dame. The catch has to be completed. I sat in anguish as UCF’s final touchdown was reviewed over and over without any clear indication that the ball was not caught. It was eventually upheld as it should have been but took far too long. I also saw Syracuse cry foul over Clemson getting a defensive touchdown against them. The dispute was over backwards pass versus incomplete pass. There needs to be more decisiveness on the field and in the replay booth. Let’s get on with the game.