The Florida Gators are poised to finish their season on a high note as they take on the Tulane Green Wave in the 2024 Gasparilla Bowl this Friday afternoon. After a challenging season that saw them start 3-6, the Gators rallied to win their last three regular-season games, including a decisive victory over rival Florida State, ultimately finishing at 6-6 and securing bowl eligibility. In contrast, the Green Wave achieved a successful 9-4 record, though they faced a setback, losing to Army in the AAC Championship Game.
Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The Gators are currently favored by 10 points, with the total points expected to be around 49.5. Betting enthusiasts are encouraged to consider insights from college football expert Eric Cohen, who has an impressive track record this season.
Florida’s last-minute surge has been largely attributed to true freshman quarterback D.J. Lagway, who stepped in after an injury sidelined senior Graham Mertz. Lagway has shown promise, throwing five touchdowns in the final three games. Meanwhile, the Gators’ rushing attack has been effective, with running backs Jadan Baugh and Montrell Johnson Jr. contributing significantly to the team’s offensive efforts. However, Johnson’s participation in the bowl game remains uncertain due to opt-out considerations.
On the other side, Tulane faces its own set of challenges. Starting quarterback Darian Mensah’s transfer to Duke leaves a gap, but former five-star recruit Ty Thompson is ready to take charge. While Thompson is relatively inexperienced, Tulane’s offense still boasts strong contributors like running back Makhi Hughes and wide receiver Mario Williams, both of whom are expected to play crucial roles in the game.
As both teams aim for victory, the matchup promises to be an exciting showdown filled with opportunities for both sides. Fans and bettors alike will be keen to see if the Gators can maintain their momentum or if Tulane can rise to the occasion despite recent challenges.
In summary, the Gasparilla Bowl represents a chance for the Gators to finish above .500 and for the Green Wave to showcase their talent, bringing together two teams eager to end their seasons on a positive note. This matchup is not just about the record; it’s a chance for young players to shine and for teams to lay the groundwork for future success.