Florida State has its bowl hopes on the line on Saturday when they travel to play the Florida Gators. Neither team is having a good season, but records can be thrown out in this rivalry.

The Seminoles and the Gators will be inspired to win this game. Like previously mentioned, FSU can lock up a bowl win and beat their bitter rival to achieve it. For Florida, it’s a chance to put Florida State out of its misery with a heartbreaking loss that would end their bowl eligibility.

FSU hasn’t been good on the road the last two years, but the Gators simply aren’t a good team. Something will have to give in this one. With that being said, here are five things to know about Florida before they take on Florida State.

Not a high-scoring offenseFlorida quarterback DJ Lagway (2) looks to throw against Tennessee during the first half of an NCAA football game against Tennessee at Steve Spurrier Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, FL on Saturday, November 22, 2025. [Alan Youngblood/Gainesville Sun]

Florida for the season is averaging 19.9 points per game which is last in the SEC. Florida State hasn’t always played well defensively this season, but playing an offense this shaky should help, especially with this being a road game.

Defense isn’t good as a unitNov 15, 2025; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Florida Gators defensive lineman Michai Boireau (93) reacts during the fourth quarter against the Mississippi Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

In addition to not scoring a lot of points, Florida’s defense is fourth worst in terms of total yards per game in the SEC. They also allow the third-most rushing yards every week in the conference (152.7). Florida State’s offense needs to take advantage.

Horrible third down offenseNov 8, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Florida Gators wide receiver Vernell Brown III (8) catches a pass during the first quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

The Gators are only converting 33% of their third-down opportunities in 2025. For the Seminoles’ defense, it will be paramount to keep the Gators’ offense in long distances on third down.

DJ Lagway will turn the ball overNov 22, 2025; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (2) throws the ball before a game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

Lagway has as many interceptions as he does touchdown passes, 13. I feel like Florida State will get one or a few turnovers in this game due to bad decisions by Lagway that can lead to some easy scores.

Still a threat to beat Florida StateNov 23, 2024; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators linebacker Jaden Robinson (29) gestures before the snap against the Mississippi Rebels during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

Florida is 3-8. They have nothing to lose on Saturday, and Florida State is coming to The Swamp with a bowl bid in their sights. That’s the perfect formula to upset a rival. Florida State will have to be ready.

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