In the 2025 Gator Bowl, the No. 14 Ole Miss Rebels will face off against the Duke Blue Devils. Both teams come into the game with 9-3 records, showcasing impressive seasons in the Power Four conferences. Ole Miss had aspirations for a spot in the College Football Playoff but saw their hopes dashed with a last-minute loss to Florida. Conversely, Duke finished the season strong, winning three consecutive games to finish on a high note.
The kickoff has been rescheduled to 8 p.m. ET at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, with Ole Miss favored by 17 points. The over/under for the game is set at 50.5 points. College football expert Eric Cohen from SportsLine offers insights and betting advice, boasting a successful season with a record of 74-54 on college football picks, providing solid returns for bettors.
In terms of team news, Ole Miss will be without key running back Henry Parrish Jr. due to injury, while the status of receiver Tre Harris remains uncertain. However, star quarterback Jaxson Dart is set to play, which is a significant boost to the Rebels’ offense. Ole Miss has also excelled defensively, ranking second in the SEC for scoring defense, with standout players expected to contribute.
For Duke, their season has been marked by inconsistency, starting strong but then undergoing a slump. They’ve recently regained momentum with a three-game win streak, including noteworthy road victories. However, the team faces challenges with quarterback depth, as both the starting and backup QBs have transferred, leaving Henry Belin IV to lead the team. Despite some losses, Duke retains key players like leading receiver Jordan Moore, who will likely play a crucial role in the game.
As fans gear up for this matchup, all eyes will be on how Ole Miss’ robust defense contends with Duke’s evolving offense. The game promises to be an exciting matchup with significant implications for both teams.
With both teams having compelling storylines and the potential for thrilling moments on the field, this bowl game could serve as a springboard for future success in the upcoming season.