In an intense Southeastern Conference matchup, the eighth-ranked Tennessee Volunteers triumphed over the Florida Gators 23-17 in overtime on Saturday night at Neyland Stadium. The game highlighted a stellar performance from Tennessee tailback Dylan Sampson, who scored three touchdowns, including the game-winner from one yard out during Tennessee’s first possession in overtime.
Florida’s defense initially did a remarkable job of containing Sampson, the SEC’s rushing leader, especially in the first half. However, Sampson later broke through with a 23-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter that gave the Volunteers their first lead of the game with just under ten minutes left.
Despite being 15.5-point underdogs, the Gators found momentum after freshman quarterback Marcus Lagway stepped in for injured sixth-year starter Graham Mertz. Lagway connected with tight end Keon Zipperer for a stunning 27-yard touchdown on a crucial third-and-19 with only 29 seconds remaining, tying the game at 17 after a failed two-point conversion attempt.
In the overtime period, Florida was unable to gain any yards on three plays and missed a 47-yard field goal opportunity, setting the stage for Tennessee’s winning drive. The Volunteers efficiently moved down the field and, facing a second-and-goal situation, Sampson plunged into the end zone to secure the win.
Throughout the game, Tennessee’s offense struggled, finishing with a season-low of 312 total yards. In contrast, Florida outgained the Volunteers, racking up 361 yards but were left to rue missed scoring opportunities in the first half.
Next, Florida (3-3, 1-2) will return home to face Kentucky (3-3, 1-3), who has defeated the Gators in three consecutive matchups. The Wildcats recently suffered a loss to Vanderbilt, marking a turn of events after their earlier win over top-ranked Alabama.