Florida Gators wrapped up their 2024 season with an impressive 33-8 win over Tulane in the Gasparilla Bowl, marking their fourth consecutive victory. This game showcased a dynamic performance from freshman quarterback Jaden Lagway, who threw for a record 305 yards in a bowl game and earned MVP honors. Despite throwing a pair of interceptions in the first half, Lagway’s resilience shone through with a critical touchdown pass that helped pull away from Tulane.
Kicker Adam Smack played a key role in the game as well, successfully converting four field goals that contributed to the Gators building a commanding lead. The Florida defense was a formidable force, severely limiting Tulane’s offensive capabilities and effectively stifling their high-scoring offense. Quarterback Ty Thompson struggled against Florida’s defense, managing only 125 passing yards and throwing three interceptions.
This victory not only capped a successful season for the Gators, who finished with eight wins, but it also established a positive momentum heading into the offseason. The team has demonstrated significant improvement after a rocky start to the season and heads into the recruiting period with heightened optimism. Coach Billy Napier is expected to build upon this year’s success with an anticipated top-10 recruiting class.
The Gators displayed a well-round performance and a return to form that fans can be excited about. The combination of an explosive offense and a relentless defense bodes well for the future. With offseason training on the horizon and the transfer portal remaining open, Florida fans have plenty of reasons to look forward to the upcoming spring season.
Overall, the Gators have shown they can bounce back, and the hope is that this success will lead into the next season, fostering a sense of renewed enthusiasm and ambition within the program.