Florida Gators: 5 reasons Gators will beat Miami in Week 0

Miami and Florida football are kicking off the 2019 season in a big way. Here’s why the Gators will win the rivalry game which doesn’t get played enough.

This game will reignite the rivalry between two of the most successful teams in the state. Both teams come into the game with a certain level of expectations, particularly the Gators, who start the season at No. 8 in the preseason polls.

While Miami is looking to prove that last season was a fluke and they’re back on the path towards rebuilding the program. They also have a chip on their shoulders, not being ranked in the first AP Top 25.

Despite the trendy upset potential, here is why I think Florida will win on its way to another great season.

5. Feleipe Franks will be making the leap

Feleipe Franks really turned around his performance at the end of last season. He finished the year with 31 total touchdowns and only six interceptions. The hope in Gainesville is that he plays more like he did in the last four games of the season, rather than the guy who played against Missouri.

While some may still have their doubts, I do think Franks has shown flashes to be an above average quarterback in college football, and that Dan Mullen is definitely the coach to get him there.

Miami has a very good defense, and this will be a big test for Franks in the first game of the season. They play a fast, energetic style meant to create many turnovers. He did a tremendous job of limiting his mistakes last season, after struggling in years past. He’ll have to get off on the right foot again.

I think he manages the game well and Florida attacks Miami’s defense where it’s at its weakest, up the middle.