Florida got off to a strong start for 2026 with a big win over FAU. The Gators started fast, jumping to a 17-0 lead after the 1st quarter. Then came some expected struggles on defense allowing FAU to close to 24-14, before stretching out the lead to 38-14 at the half. Then the Gators pulled away in the 2nd half for the final score of 66-21.
Florida’s offense rolled up 624 yards – 281 rushing and 343 passing. Jaden Baugh looked every bit an all-SEC candidate with 160 rushing yards and 3 TDs, Aaron Philo had 275 yards passing and 3 TDs, and VB3 led the WRs with 117 yards and 1 TD. Philo looked fairly comfortable and in control, moving around in the pocket when necessary and making mostly accurate throws. The O-line was what I was focused on, and they performed pretty well for the most part. They committed only 1 penalty, kept the pocket clean for most of the game, and were able to dominate the FAU D-line – as they should. The Owl D-line was able to generate some pressure occasionally, and when they blitzed it caused some protection issues for Florida. I’m sure that will be a point of emphasis for Coach Trautwein all season – especially when the level of competition increases significantly. The Gators were also 8-8 in the red zone and won the time of possession battle. All of these developments were quite the contrast from the Napier Error, and a welcome sight – even given the limitations of the opponent. The only real disappointment for the offense was seeing WR Eric Singleton limp off the field very early with an ankle injury, and he did not return.
The Gator defense was good overall, but had some rough patches and showed they still have plenty of areas for improvement. The interior rush defense struggled at times, but some of that was due to focusing on containing the FAU quick–passing game more than defending the run. The secondary had some good coverage moments and came up with 2 interceptions, but also was too soft in the flats and short zones. I was a little disappointed that DC Brad White played his CBs so soft, allowing the Owls to generate 25 first downs and extend a few drives by converting many 3rd downs. It may be too early to know if he was just being conservative, knowing the game was in hand, or if there are underlying coverage issues that may be exposed later. Surprisingly, Florida did not force a single punt, with FAU drives ending either with a score, a turnover, or losing possession on downs. That’s probably the largest disappointment from the defense.
There wasn’t much to glean from the Special Teams, as Florida never punted and was conservative on kickoff and punt returns. New PK Patrick Durkin looked solid, making his only FG attempt of 53 yards (a career best) and with a touchback on 10 of his 11 kickoffs.
Major Props to S&C coach Rusty Whitt. The offensive and defensive linemen looked leaner, faster, and in MUCH better shape than what’s been seen in Gainesville since the Urban Meyer years. No slow, sloppy, fat guys getting pushed around and weakening in the second half. Quite a welcome change, and it will pay benefits all season.
Overall, a solid game for Jon Sumrall’s Florida debut. Most of the roster saw some playing time, the offense was explosive, the defense generated some turnovers, and the overall vibe around the team seems fun and exciting again.