FLORIDA 33, TULANE 8
In a decisive victory, the Florida Gators triumphed over Tulane in the Gasparilla Bowl, wrapping up their 2024 season with a score of 33-8. The Gators showcased a formidable defense throughout the game, with defensive tackle Desmond Watson making a memorable first-half bear-hug stop on Tulane quarterback Ty Thompson, emphasizing Florida’s dominance.
Leading the charge for Florida was freshman quarterback DJ Lagway, who threw for an impressive 305 yards and delivered a touchdown pass in the second half. Junior kicker Adam Smack was instrumental as well, successfully converting four field goals, helping the Gators maintain their lead throughout the match. This win marked Florida’s eighth victory of the season and highlighted a significant turnaround, considering their rocky 1-2 start earlier in the year.
Lagway’s performance earned him the Gasparilla Bowl MVP title, as he completed 22 of 35 passes. He set a bowl record with his yardage, although he faced challenges with two first-half interceptions. His touchdown pass to tight end Jonathan Livingston in the third quarter broke open the game, allowing the Gators to stretch their lead to 16-0.
While the Gators’ offense showed flashes of brilliance, it was their defense that truly shone, limiting Tulane—known for its strong offense—to just 194 yards, well below their season average. The absence of Tulane’s star quarterback, who transferred to Duke, hampered their performance significantly.
As the game progressed, Florida asserted complete control, finishing with 529 total yards of offense, their second-highest of the season. The defense also showcased its capabilities, racking up 38 tackles for loss, 19 sacks, and 13 turnovers in their final four games.
The Gators concluded the season with a positive momentum that hadn’t been seen since 2019. This victory not only signifies a successful end to their campaign but also provides a foundation for future growth under third-year Coach Billy Napier. With the recruitment landscape looking promising and anticipated strong performance in the upcoming spring season, fans have plenty to be excited about moving forward.
Overall, this victory serves as a thrilling conclusion to the season, providing hope and setting the stage for a brighter future for Florida Gators football.