The Florida Gators may have found new life with last week’s upset win over then-No. 9 Texas, but the next challenge on the schedule might be even tougher.
Billy Napier’s team heads to College Station for a Saturday night clash with No. 5 Texas A&M and USA TODAY Sports’ panel of experts isn’t convinced Florida football will keep the momentum going.
Of the six writers who submitted predictions for Week 7, only Matt Hayes is picking the Orange and Blue to pull off the upset. Hayes stands alone in siding with the Gators, while the rest of the panel expects the Aggies to defend their home turf.
Jordan Mendoza, Paul Meyerberg, Erick Smith, Eddie Timanus and Blake Toppmeyer all picked Texas A&M to win at Kyle Field, one of the toughest stadiums for visiting teams in college football. Especially under the lights.
Florida’s defense under Ron Roberts has been steady, and last week’s physical win showed flashes of the team Napier envisioned before the season started. But pulling off another upset will require a near-flawless performance from DJ Lagway and company against one of the SEC’s elite teams.
If there’s reason for optimism, it’s that this Florida team seems to be trending upward when it matters most. The connection between Lagway and true freshman wide receiver Dallas Wilson gives the Gators a much-needed spark on offense.
Add in a locker room that’s rallied around Napier despite a rocky start, and there’s a belief within the program that they can shock the SEC again. It won’t be easy, but this matchup has the ingredients for another statement-making Saturday.
How to watch Florida-Texas A&M
The Gators head to College Station on Saturday, Oct. 11, as they face the No. 5 Texas A&M Aggies. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.
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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: USA TODAY Sports makes picks for Florida football vs. Texas A&M Week 7
