2006 Preview

With a 12th game added to the schedule, the Gators get to tune up for Florida State with a glorified scrimmage against something called a Western Carolina. Apparently they’re in I-AA or something.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: RB Darius Fudge is an all-conference back, and has a fun name to boot. … DL Felipe Foster is a I-AA All-American.

Absolutle worst-case scenario: A key player is injured during this likely blowout.

But more accurately: The starters are on the bench by the second quarter, and this one gets ugly in a hurry.

Likely pregame storylines: West Carolina is not a state. What’s the deal?

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

It’s often written that coaches and players “have the ______ game circled on the calendar.” Do you think this really happens? Do you think when the 2006 schedule came out, Steve Spurrier literally circled the date of the SC-Florida game, as if he might otherwise forget about it?

Guys that could make our lives difficult: WR Sidney Rice is arguably one of the top 3 receivers in the country. … CB Fred Bennett is a lockdown corner that could neutralize the Gators’ top receivers. … QB Blake Mitchell will certainly use Rice to his advantage, and showed last year that he can manage a game. … RB Mike Davis is a little fella (5′9″), but can pound if Spurrier decides to try to beat us on the ground.

Absolute worst-case scenario: Spurrier pulls another rabbit out of his visor, and we’re subjected to another year of “Spurrier has our number” stories. Oh my God, this absolutely cannot happen.

But more accurately: Payback will be quick and painful. The Gators exploit a weak Gamecock squad that’s disseminated by in-season suspensions, winning by a comfortable 21. Sorry, coach.

Likely pregame storylines: Apparently a member of the SC coaching staff used to be affiliated with the University of Florida in some way. That might come up.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

QB Jay Cutler single-handedly kept last year’s game with Vanderbilt a close one. No single SEC player in recent memory meant as much to his team as Cutler did. And now he’s gone. Expect this game to be a rough one for the Dores.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: WR Earl Bennett sure looked good with a first-round NFL QB throwing to him. How he will look playing catch with QB Chris Nickson, the likely starter? … Umm, other than Bennett, can’t really think of anyone else. SS Reshard Langford, maybe?

Absolute worst-case scenario: A confused Vince Young drives to the wrong Nashville stadium, ends up suiting up for the Commodores, and the Gators win by only 28.

But more accurately: Vandy with Jay Cutler: 5-6. Vandy without Jay Cutler: 1-10. This one will be ugly fast.

Likely pregame storylines: Wow, Vandy took us to OT last year? Could it happen again?

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

The rough patch of The Hardest Schedule in the History of Organized Football finally ends with the Cocktail Party Oct. 28. Georgia is the most winnable game of the four biggies, and the Gators should continue their dominance over the Dawgs.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: The three-headed RB monster of Thomas Brown, Kregg Lumpkin and Danny Ware will likely be the focus of the UGA offense. … DE Quentin Moses will be a star on Sundays, and will give the Gator line fits. … P Gordon Ely-Kelso enters his 17th season with Georgia.

Absolute worst-case scenario: The RBs perform well enough to keep QB Joe Tereshinski from having to make any plays, and a rebuilt secondary manages to stifle the Gators’ passing attack. The Bulldogs win by a touchdown.

But more accurately: Come on, seriously? Joe Tereshinski? Yecch. Ya gotta have a serviceable QB to hang in the SEC, but the Bulldogs will start a former long-snapper under center. The Bulldogs will have to replace a huge o-line, and won’t be able to protect Tereshinski or the RBs, and the Gators hold the Dawgs under 10, winning comfortably.

Likely pregame storylines: Will the city of Jacksonville be able to host such a large event without the anarchy that’s marred the game the last two years? Will Georgia ever beat the Gators again? Will the Gators finally pick up a win in the four-game stretch from Hell?

Why we’re better: The whole “Gators wear jean shorts” thing is the best they can muster against us. And it’s not even accurate. And even if it was, guys with bowl cuts and red pants probably shouldn’t be throwing stones. … 14 of 16.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

It’s absolutely terrifying to look at the Gators’ schedule and realize that the team could head into Auburn on a two-game slide. But such is life when you play The Hardest Schedule in the History of Organized Football.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: The entire team. … RB Kenny Irons continues the recent tradition of sick RBs for the Tigers. … QB Brandon Cox rarely makes mistakes. … CB David Irons, Kenny’s brother, will absolutely lock down any WR put in front of him. … LB Will Herring moves from FS, where he was one of the league’s best.

Absolute worst-case scenario: The undefeated Tigers continue their march to Arizona with a devastating blowout, Alabama 2005-style.

But more accurately: The undefeated Tigers continue their march to Arizona with a 10-point win over an overmatched Gator team.

Likely pregame storylines: Assuming the Gators lose to either LSU or Alabama, expect a “when will the bleeding stop?” theme. Are the Tigers a legit National Championship contender?

Why we’re better: Somehow the name “Jordan” is pronounced “Jerdin” in Alabama. … That whole War Eagle thing.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

The Gators’ brutal midseason stretch continues with a Homecoming matchup against LSU, a team that beat UF last year in a game plagued by poor o-line play and game management. And then Urban Meyer cried after the game. One would hope the Gators pull it together in 2006, but LSU has perhaps the best offense in the SEC, and one of the top defenses.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: QB JaMarcus Russell should be the starter, and has the experience to lead the LSU offense despite somewhat questionable decision-making. Even if Broussard is on the bench by Oct. 7, QBs Matt Flynn and Ryan Perilloux are talented enough to start for most SEC schools. … If RB Alley Broussard returns to form after a pair of knee surgeries, the junior could be dangerous. Broussard and the departed Joseph Addai were poised to be the nation’s top 1-2 punch at RB last season. … S LaRon Landry is the best DB in the SEC. … Sophomore LB Darry Beckwith could be poised for a breakout year.

Absolute worst-case scenario: More of the same. LSU dominates both sides of the ball, and the Gators can’t get their heads on straight enough to stay in the game in the fourth quarter. LSU wins by three TDs, ending Urban Meyer’s spectacular start at home.

But more accurately: A little less of the same. Even though the LSU defense saw the departure of most of their impact players from 2005, they might dominate up front and in the secondary, holding the Gator offense in check. On offense, the Tigers’ speedy receiving corps could be good for two or three huge plays, and Broussard could largely run circles around the front seven, giving the Tigers just enough output to hold off the Gators in a low-scoring affair. It’s definitely a winnable game for UF, depending on how the Gators look in the first five games. If the offense is adapted well enough to fit QB Chris Leak’s strengths, and the defense stays healthy, the Gators win. But who knows if we’ll be in that position? This could be the first setback for the Gators, and could lead to the annual Gator Nation Chicken Little Meltdown.

Likely pregame storylines: Lazy sportswriters note ad nauseum that Meyer cried after last year’s loss. The Gators’ Four Games from Hell continues; how will they survive? If Leak struggles running the offense, is now the time to give Tim Tebow the ball?

Why we’re better: Tiger fans are impossible to sit near in the Swamp. Not because they’re an intimidating bunch, but because they whine every time a Gator fan verbally acknowledges the action on the field. … Ever been to Baton Rogue? It’s like Tallahassee, but without stuff like trees and plantlife. … In the 19th Century, a homeless LSU took up shop at the Institute for the Deaf, Dumb and Blind.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

Vengeance! We demand vengeance! Alabama is the first big-ticket game in Gainesville this season, a year after the Gators were brought crashing down to reality with a 31-3 loss in Tuscaloosa. Bama is down seven starters from last year’s team, and will miss the leadership of 37-year-old Brodie Croyle under center. Anything less than a two-touchdown Gator win will likely seem unsatisfying considering last year’s butt-kicking.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: RB Kenneth Darby is coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, including 101 against the Gators. … WR D.J. Hall is the Tide’s top returning receiver, assuming Tyrone Prothro remains on the sidelines. … LB Juwan Simpson is the lone star returning on defense.

Absolute worst-case scenario: History repeats itself as Alabama solves the spread option, clamping down on the Gators’ passing attack. The Tide plays mistake-free on both sides of the ball, and wins a 24-6 snoozer.

But more accurately: Bama lost too much talent on defense, and the Gators’ offense has evolved enough to not be completely predictable. Darby won’t be able to do it all himself, and the Gators win by a relatively comfortable margin, 28-10 or so.

Likely pregame storylines: Has the Tide, winners of three straight against the Gators, figured us out? Assuming Bama beats Arkansas the week before, will they be ready for their first big-time opponent? Will cloning technology ever give Tide fans the opportunity to see Bear Bryant coach again?

Why we’re better: Riots and gunfights marred the university’s early existence. … Student government is controlled by a secretive organization called “The Machine.” Kinda like Skull and Bones, but with pies and chickens. … Rammer jammer, yellow hammer. Mix in a rhyming dictionary, Alabama.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

The bi-annual Kentucky home game has traditionally been a reminder that every other year, the Gators’ home slate is less than stellar. But with Alabama, LSU and South Carolina all looming large on the UF schedule, the typical Kentucky blowout will be a little easier to swallow this year.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: RB Rafael Little led the Wildcats in rushing, receiving and punt returning last year. With his talent, he sticks out like a sore thumb on this bare roster. … TE Jacob Tamme is a converted WR who’s not much of a blocker, but is probably the most talented receiver on their roster. He’ll be the guy if the Cats hope to top last year’s whopping 6 passing TDs … LB Wesley Woodyard moved from safety in 2005, and went on to lead the team in tackles.

Absolute worst-case scenario: The entire Gator roster and coaching staff comes down with food poisoning the night before the game, so the Pride of the Sunshine marching band takes the field against the Wildcats, coached by economics professors David Denslow and Mark Rush via closed-circuit television. The young Wildcats manage only 14 points, and fall to the Gators by a field goal.

But more accurately: The Wildcats have 14 starters coming back, but they still lack the experience and talent to hang with the Gators. This one will be ugly by halftime, as the Gators start to find their groove in the 2006 version of the kinda-spread, kinda-option offense. QB Tim Tebow shows signs of brilliance running the second-team offense, giving Gators both hope for the future, and something to bitch about once the Gators eventually run into trouble this season.

Likely pregame storylines: That 2005 game really turned ugly in the second-half; could it be that Kentucky is closing the gap? If the Wildcats fall to 1-3, can we stick a nail in Rich Brooks’ coffin? Ashley Judd’s sure looking rough these days, isn’t she?

Why we’re better: UK fans used to be able to hang their hats on their dominance in basketball through the years. Something tells me that won’t be an issue this year. … Kentucky’s non-conference slate: Texas State, Central Michigan, La.-Monroe, and — okay, we’ll give you this one — Louisville. … Ashley Judd.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

Last year’s Tennessee win, Urban Meyer’s first big test, certainly seemed like a big one at the time. But then the Vols proceeded to finish the season at 5-6, leaving many Gators a bit unsatisfied at having knocked off a huge rival. Coach Phil Fulmer deep fried his 2005 playbook, covered it in Magic Shell, ate it in less than a minute, then hired former assistant David Cutcliffe to revamp a woeful offense. Improving that side of the ball will be key for a team whose defense was sixth nationally in yards allowed.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: RB Arian Foster might be the next guy to leave Gator fans crying in their Beam and Pepsi. He’s a pounder who will be a big part of the typical UT plan of ramming the ball down our throats. … OT Aaron Sears is the lone returning starter up front, but is a potential All-American performer. If he can open up holes for Foster, the Gators might have a little 2001 déjà vu. … QB Eric Ainge might end up a pretty good player, but he’s shown only flashes of competency. This might be the year he finally shows some consistency. … DT Justin Harrell is a three-year starter up front.

Absolute worst-case scenario: Fulmer puts down the gravy boat long enough to go back to his roots, as the Vols employ a ground-and-pound attack to wear down the Gators. The Vols’ young line holds the Gators vaunted d-line in check, and Foster rattles off a slow 180 yards. Ainge doesn’t make any mistakes, the defense pressures Chris Leak into fancifully bailing in the pocket, and the Vols win by 10.

But more accurately: The Gators’ hybrid pro-style/spread option offense picks through the Vols’ D, and UT’s inexperienced young o-line is no match for the Gators’ front 4. The Gators win a surprisingly high-scoring game at Neyland.

Likely pregame storylines: Will Meyer come through in his First Big Test, part II? Who will come out on top, and start the SEC slate as the de facto favorite in the SEC East? Will Fulmer be distracted by competing in a regional qualifier of the International Mozzarella Stick Eating Contest the Thursday before the game?

Why we’re better: Every year, Vol fans claim that Gators are nothing but screaming psychopaths, throwing jars of urine and weaponized bird flu at orange-clad passers-by. Yet they never have any proof beyond anecdotal evidence shared at the local general store. … Apparently, you’re not allowed to stand at Neyland Stadium. Not exactly an environment conducive to competitive college football. … Another big rivalry game is their annual tilt with Alabama: “The Third Saturday in October.” God only knows how much market research went into crafting that memorable moniker.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

UCF is riding high after a 8-5 season and their first ever bowl game last year, a 49-48 OT loss to Nevada in the Hawaii Bowl. Coach George O’Leary certainly has raised expectations in Orlando, but let’s not forget this is only the program’s 12th year in I-A, and the 28th season of football altogether. And let’s not forget their 0-11 record in 2004. And don’t forget the Gators’ first opponent, Southern Miss, put up 51 points against the Knights last year.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: RB Kevin Smith is riding high after the success of “Clerks II,” and will try to build on an incredible freshman season (1232 yards, 9 TD). … CB Joe Burnett was an all-conference performer as a true freshman last year, and is probably the top punt returner in Conference USA. … WR Mike Walker doubles as the Knights’ top returning receiver, and as a gossip columnist for the National Enquirer.

Absolute worst-case scenario: The Knights keep it within 28 points, and the punditry declares UCF as the next school to enter Florida’s “Big Three.”

But more accurately: Come on, it’s UCF. The Knights’ secondary is their most inexperienced unit, and Chris Leak and Tim Tebow each play a half and pick apart the young upstarts. This will likely be Tebow’s first chance to show his worth.

Likely pregame storylines: Could this be the game UCF proves it hang with the big boys? Will UCF have more than 1,000 fans in Gainesville? Did George O’Leary really write the pilot to “How I Met Your Mother,” as his resume claims?

Why we’re better: How should I put this? If your son was accepted to both UCF and UF, where would you send him? No brainer, right? … The awful movie The Blair Witch Project was produced by UCF students. Yecch. … The Knights’ mascot, Knightro, has a girlfriend: Glycerin. Seriously. … Just 4,500 students live on campus.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators’ 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.

Southern Miss certainly isn’t like the Directional Michigan, Citadel or Ball State cupcakes the Gators normally open with. The Golden Eagles are one of eight 2005 bowl teams the Gators will play in 2006, finishing last season with a win over Arkansas State in something called the New Orleans Bowl.

Guys that could make our lives difficult: TE Shawn Nelson was the Eagles’ leading receiver as a freshman last season. … Also on offense, G George Batiste might be the best lineman in Conference USA, but the Gators’ front 4 will pose a challenge seldom seen in C-USA.

Absolute worst-case scenario: The USM defense takes advantage of growing pains on the Gators’ o-line, and our offense struggles to click as spread option principles dominate the offensive philosophy. The Gators come out tight, QB Chris Leak is quick to bail on pass plays, and the Gators can only muster 24 points in a closer-than-it-should-be victory.

But more accurately: The Gators treat USM like a scrimmage before the SEC schedule, and dominate both sides of the ball. The Golden Eagles struggle to break double-digit points, and the Gators win by at least four TDs.

Likely pregame storylines: Will Leak’s senior season be the one in which he finally clicks as the Gators’ offensive leader? Will this game set the tone for Urban Meyer’s typical second-year success? How will the Swamp welcome back Steve Spurrier as the 1996 championship team is honored?

Why we’re better: USM is probably the most steady achiever in C-USA. That’s like being the world’s tallest midget. … Jimmy Buffett went to school there. The next time I’m in Key West and my ears are bleeding, I’ll make sure I think of your school. … The school was first called Mississippi Normal College. Nothing like positioning your school as a low-priced, generic alternative to other schools. Kinda like buying Sam’s Choice Cola. … Their mascot’s name is Seymour d’Campus.

WATB will be taking a game-by-game look at the Gators’ 2006 schedule, leading up to the opener Sept. 2. Feel free to remind us how awful our predictions were once the season gets underway.