Later Gators?

Posted Jan 8, 2007 by Brett McMurphy

Updated Jan 8, 2007 at 02:09 PM

GLENDALE, Ariz. - If the oddsmakers are correct, it will be an Ohio State victory celebration Monday night. The undefeated Buckeyes are a touchdown favorite against the Gators so it should be no surprise most folks are predicting an Ohio State win.

Tampa Tribune columnists Joey Johnston and Martin Fennelly are picking Ohio State to win. Even Tampa Tribune UF beat writer Andy Staples believes the Buckeyes will defeat Florida. Me? I’m going with the Gators in a shocking upset.

Johnston predicts Ohio State 34-20, Fennelly predicts Ohio State 35-23 and Staples predicts Ohio State 28-21. Last time, I covered a national title game in Arizona, the underdog Buckeyes shocked Miami. This time, Florida shocks the favored Buckeyes. I’ll go with Florida 24-20. If Gator fans are looking for more media predictions favoring UF, don’t rely on USA Today. Of the predictions of 12 USA Today staff writers, 11 picked the Buckeyes. Besides myself, there are a few others picking UF. Orlando Sentinel columnist David Whitley predicts Florida to win 37-2.