Bryce Thornton showcased his remarkable talent by intercepting Jackson Dart twice, leading the Florida Gators to a thrilling 24-17 victory over the No. 9 ranked Ole Miss Rebels. This win marks the Gators’ second consecutive triumph against ranked opponents, a feat not accomplished since 2018, and underscores a significant resurgence for a program that has faced challenges in recent years.
In the game held in Gainesville, Florida, DJ Lagway threw two touchdown passes while Montrell Johnson contributed with an impressive 127 rushing yards and a score. With this victory, Florida improved to a 6-5 record (4-4 in the Southeastern Conference), disrupting Mississippi’s aspirations for the College Football Playoff. The Rebels, who were heavily favored, faced their first defeat in four games and will fall out of playoff contention.
Coach Billy Napier expressed optimism about the future of the program, stating, “We’re just getting started. This is part of the big-picture journey. Belief is the most powerful thing in the world.” His comments highlight the growing confidence and potential within the team.
Mississippi’s coach Lane Kiffin noted the missed opportunities that hindered their performance, especially during critical moments in the red zone, where they failed to score on three occasions. Dart completed 24 of his 41 passes for 323 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. Despite the defensive pressure from Florida, he showed resilience by scrambling for 71 rushing yards.
Florida’s defense was key to their success, with Thornton’s late-game interceptions sealing the win. Johnson’s significant contributions, particularly his 9-yard touchdown run from the wildcat formation, showed his determination after overcoming injury setbacks.
However, injuries plagued Ole Miss, as three starters left the game. The Rebels’ depth will need to be tested as they prepare for their next challenge.
As Florida celebrates a morale-boosting win, they are looking ahead to three consecutive games, a positive sign that the team is on an upward trajectory under Napier’s leadership. They will next face rival Florida State, aiming to capitalize on their newfound momentum.
In summary, this game not only highlights Florida’s resurgence in college football but also sets the stage for an exciting end to the season, offering hope for fans and players alike as they look to build on this momentum in the coming weeks.