After a successful 2018 season for the Florida Gators, expectations are high for the new season. What will happen with Florida Football this year?
In Dan Mullen’s first season with the Florida Gators, expectations were high. Mullen managed to win a lot of games at Mississippi State without the power of a brand behind him. He had to recruit players to go to Starkville without stellar facilities. They had to wear maroon jerseys, play in games that weren’t primetime television, and had to listen to deafening cowbells for three hours every Saturday. Despite this recruiting pitch, Mullen was very successful as the head coach.
Now that Mullen is recruiting from Florida, the talent on his roster will be significantly better than before. He has the championship history, a better state to recruit talent from, nicer facilities, and the ability to avoid playing Alabama every year in the regular season.
In that first year, the Gators managed to go 9-3 in the regular season. There were some upsetting performances, like when Florida lost to Kentucky in Week 2. They also lost to Missouri, a team they should’ve been able to beat.
However, they won some games they were projected to lose. Beating LSU in Gainesville was a great win. Embarrassing the Michigan Wolverines in their bowl game was also an amazing way for the Gators to end the season.
After the success of his first season, expectations are higher for year two. Mullen has a full recruiting class of his own guys on the team. He’s also returning Feleipe Franks, the starting quarterback last season.
However, there are questions that must be answered. With Jawaan Taylor being drafted, there are holes to fill on the offensive line. Jachai Polite will also have to be replaced on defense. There’s a lot to be excited about, but there’s also a lot up in the air for the Gators.
That being said, here are some bold predictions for Florida this upcoming season.