A dominating, gutsy performance, marred by an equally ugly injury to Tim Tebow.

The Gators came out and showed Kentucky, and the country, that they are still the #1 team in the country.  That was a dominating performance.  The first quarter ripped the heart out of the Mildcats just like last season, and the competitive phase was essentially over.  The Florida running game is one of the best in the country right now, and, once again, the passing game was not even needed.  That still may turn out to be the thing that derails the Gators as the season progresses, but so far, so good.

Florida’s defense toyed with Kentucky all game, allowing only one TD with a loss of focus and some shoddy tackling after the 31-0 lead was established.  The D-Line was able to generate some pressure on it’s own, while there were some well-timed corner blitzes to confuse the QB.  Ryan Stamper was all over the field, and may be the defensive MVP to date.  It appears Spikes will have to play through the Achilles’ tendonitis all season.  He looked better than he did against Tennessee, but he’s no where near 100%.

Of course the big happening was the concussion Tebow suffered with a 31-7 lead late in the 3rd quarter.  This has generated a ton of debate across the country.  My take is that I know he wants to play in that situation, and I know the staff wants him in for at least that last possession, but, with a 31-7 lead, inside the 10-yard line, with a FG in hand, there’s no reason to go empty and leave him open for a hit like that.  At least have a RB in the backfield for protection.  That game was already in hand.  My concern is essentially one of the situation.  That formation and play call are normal for a close game or a game in doubt, and I understand that.  But this situation did not call for it.  Now, there is doubt as to whether he may even be allowed to play against L$U, and that’s a shame.  I just hope he comes back only when medically ready, but the season could be jeopardized.  Time to coach up Johnny Brantley for a possible first career start.

I’ll be back with a preview of the L$U showdown next week.