No. 8 Tennessee secured a hard-fought 23-17 victory over rival Florida in an overtime battle on Saturday night at Neyland Stadium. The Gators’ defense effectively contained Tennessee’s standout running back Dylan Sampson, the SEC’s leading rusher, during the first half, keeping the game competitive.
The turning point came in overtime when Sampson scored on a one-yard run, marking his third touchdown of the game. His earlier 23-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter put the Volunteers ahead for the first time, with just under ten minutes remaining. Florida, entering the game as 15.5-point underdogs, rallied late, thanks to freshman quarterback Jaden Lagway, who stepped in after starting quarterback Graham Mertz left the game with a knee injury. Lagway threw a 23-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Richardson with only 29 seconds left in regulation to tie the game at 17-17.
Initially, Florida’s coach Billy Napier considered a two-point conversion for a chance to win but ultimately opted for the extra point, forcing the overtime period. In overtime, Tennessee won the coin toss and chose to start on defense. Florida’s offense struggled, gaining only four yards on three plays, leading to kicker Alex Smack’s missed 47-yard field goal attempt.
Tennessee capitalized quickly, needing five plays to cover 25 yards, culminating in Sampson’s decisive touchdown. Sampson finished with 112 rushing yards on 27 carries. Despite their defensive efforts, Florida’s inability to convert scoring opportunities in the first half proved costly. They had three drives inside the Tennessee 20-yard line that resulted in no points due to turnovers and penalties.
The Gators scored first in the second half, with Mertz connecting with tight end Boardingham for a touchdown, followed by a strong response from the Volunteers. Tennessee’s subsequent scoring drives showcased their resilience and ultimately led them to victory.
Florida will return home to face Kentucky, looking to bounce back from this disappointing defeat.