GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The Florida Gators made quite the statement on Saturday, upending the No. 9 Ole Miss Rebels 24-17 amid jubilant scenes at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. This unexpected victory not only marked Florida's first triumph over a top 10 team since 2020 but also solidified the Gators' position for bowl eligibility, creating ripples throughout the college football community.
It was Senior Day, and the atmosphere was electric, making it the perfect backdrop for what turned out to be one of the season’s most thrilling matchups. With high stakes on both sides—Florida needing the win for bowl eligibility and Ole Miss vying for playoff contention—the game unfolded under beautiful, clear skies typical of Florida’s fall.
Florida's head coach Billy Napier emphasized the importance of earning the victory throughout the week leading up to the game. “I think the whole message this week was [to] earn the right to win,” Napier said. "The game was definitely about turnover margin and red zone scoring. Put those two things together and it becomes much harder to defeat us.”
Florida’s senior running back Montrell Johnson Jr. put on a spectacular performance, racking up 127 rushing yards and scoring the go-ahead touchdown late in the fourth quarter. His explosive play, running straight out of the wildcat formation for nine yards, seemed to ignite the crowd even more. Despite mostly being involved as part of the secondary this season, his final home game was nothing short of memorable.
Freshman quarterback DJ Lagway also shone under pressure, throwing for 180 yards and tossing two touchdowns alongside one interception. His decisive throws, especially connecting with senior receiver Elijhah Badger for the first touchdown of the game, showcased the potential of this young Gators offense.
The Gators’ defense also played a pivotal role, stifling Ole Miss at key moments. They managed to produce four sacks and nine tackles for loss, which played directly against Ole Miss' offensive rhythm. Crucially, two interceptions by sophomore defensive back Bryce Thornton late solidified Florida’s win by effectively quashing any hopes of a Rebel comeback.
This match started explosively for Florida; Montgomery kicked things off with notable aggressiveness, producing big hits to set the tone. After forcing Ole Miss to punt following two early defensive stands, Lagway commanded the offense with poise. After two impressive drives, he opened the scoring by finding Badger for an eight-yard touchdown pass, putting Florida up 7-0.
Ole Miss quickly responded, with quarterback Jaxson Dart connecting with wide receiver Tre Harris for a quick 43-yard touchdown, tying things up at 7-7. The game report revealed back-and-forth action as both teams displayed potent offensive capabilities, though it was Florida who managed to get the upper hand.
The Gators recovered nicely after Lagway's interception led to Ole Miss' initial lead of 14-7, scoring two more touchdowns and tying the game at 14 just before halftime. Florida’s defense came alive, stopping the Rebels multiple times inside the red zone. The Rebels’ inability to convert their chances became the crux of their defeat.
With the game tied at 17 after halftime, Florida struck first with Trey Smack’s 53-yard field goal, logging their first score of the third quarter. Ole Miss briefly regained some momentum, with Dart creating chances with his scramble and passing plays; yet, the Gator defense proved unfazed, thwarting offensive drives and forcing turnovers.
Despite the statistics showing Ole Miss outgaining Florida 464 to 364 yards, their inefficiency became their downfall; they could not capitalize on red zone opportunities, missing field goals and fumbling key plays. To make matters worse, Dart's two final interceptions resulted from undisciplined play under pressure and cost the Rebels any shot at victory.
Coach Lane Kiffin of Ole Miss voiced his frustration post-game: “We had opportunities, but we obviously did not come through. Many missed chances today.” This reflected the disappointment of what could have been. Ole Miss expected to contest for the playoffs but have now seen those dreams dashed.
The Rebels had entered the game with hopes of continuing their momentum after wrapping up victories against Georgia and Mississippi State, but this defeat shifts their focus as postseason aspirations dwindle. With bowl eligibility secured for Florida, their fans had more reason to celebrate, with Gator Nation underscoring the significance of this upset.
The game left Florida fans buzzing with excitement, especially as momentum appeared to be shifting back toward the Gators’ side after years of struggle. The victory prompted former players and alumni to take to social media, expressing their pride and excitement for the direction Billy Napier is taking the program. “We’re just getting started,” said Napier, visibly proud of the effort his team put forth.
Next up, Florida will look to build upon this momentum as they prepare for their rivalry game against the Florida State Seminoles, another chance to prove their resurgence. Meanwhile, Ole Miss must regroup quickly, facing dire questions about their path forward as they move past this loss and onto the Egg Bowl. It promises to be an interesting close to the season for both teams as they navigate their respective paths.
Overall, the late-season victory showcased Florida’s growing prowess and highlighted the ebbs and flows of college football's unpredictable and captivating nature. It’s moments like these, defined by thrilling upsets and passionate performances, reminding fans and players alike why they cherish this sport.
