Florida Gators vs Penn State Nittany Lions

Florida Gators vs Penn State Nittany Lions
Saturday, Jan 1st 10:00 AM PST
West Side Viewing Only

Seattle Gators:

Well this has been a whirlwind of a season hasn’t it! From “Mullen’s Mystery”, “Miles’ Miracle” and “Spurrier’s Statement” in the Swamp to “Saban’s Standoff” in Tuscaloosa and “Jimbo’s Jolt” in Tallahassee, we haven’t had the success we desired. Unconvincing and questionable offensive play calling, coupled with a lack of identity on offense and defense, most likely attributed to the lack of success experienced this season. If anything, this has been a wakeup call and a humbling experience for Gator Nation. Results like those could easily test our spirit, but in no way should it shake the foundation that has established Gator Nation.

On December 8th, after 6 loyal years, Urban stepped down as HBC for the Gators. I personally did not see this one coming, however I thank Coach Meyer for the success and memories he brought to Gator Nation over the course of his tenure. Who can forget the 2006 season highlighted Jarvis Moss’ not one, but two blocked kicks to squeak by the ‘Cocks in the Swamp in arguably one the loudest games since the 1997 FSU game. We can all remember “shocking” the world in Glendale, even though it was no real shock to Gator Nation. Two years later remembering us sending the Sooners back to Oklahoma with no trophy, but some nice parting gifts (see: Tebow Gator Chomp penalty). Urban brought with him a new “Swagger” seemed lacking since Spurrier’s departure (sorry Zooker).

On December 22nd, Temple announced the hiring of our OC, Steve Addazio (This warrants no discussion). No, seriously it does warrant a discussion apart from the standard “At Gator Nation we wish him the best of luck with his future endeavors”.
Ok… one… two… three… Now that I got that out, it is time to look forward. On December 11th, we welcomed our new HBC, Will Muschamp. His hire has its doubters, but the consensus is that Gator Nation is excited about his energy and defensive acumen. I personally want to welcome Coach Muschamp to the university. My only contention is the fact that he does share a beach house with FSU HBC Jimbo Fisher. This should be addressed at some point, because this feels like a tie, and like Bama Coach Bryant once said, “a tie is like kissing your sister”.

Though we have lost a number of recruits from the fallout, including CB Nick Waisome to FSU, we did hold on to a key recruit, QB Jeff Driskel. If you are not familiar with this kid, I promise you will not be disappointed. Jeff should be in school early admission in January. Once he steps foot in between the palms and pine, I will take a deep breath.
There is talk around the coolers that Muschamp will be deciding on an OC by the end of the week. We will keep you posted when new developments come in.
Finally I think it is time to talk about the game. On January first we invite all to join us to watch our Gators take on the Nittany Lions of Penn State.

HEAD COACH: Penn State is coached by legendary coach Joe Paterno. In fact, Joe Paterno has been coaching as long (46 years) as Urban has been alive. I think it is fitting that Coach Meyer’s last game as HBC be across one of the legends of the game. Though Coach Paterno has been around the game for all this time, he has only two of the four national champions to his name. That means Paterno has 2 championships in 46 at Penn State compared to Urban’s 2-6 in Florida, coupled with the fact that Joe has to deal with the myriad of issues of with his age (in 2006 he actually left the field mid-game) I have to give the Edge to Coach Meyer.
EDGE: Gators

OFFENSE: Is Adazzio still coaching from the sidelines? Yes? Ok
EDGE: Nittany Lions

DEFENSE: Both teams have been suspect this year and lacked Identity. I feel however we have a depth of young talent that will be showcased in this game.
EDGE: Gators

SPECIAL TEAMS: Once a standard of excellence by Coach Meyer, injuries have led to inconsistencies in the kicking game. Luckily we can rely on arguably the best punter ever to wear Orange and Blue in Chas Henry and a number of skilled young players on special teams.
EDGE: Gators

INTANGIBLES: Coach Meyer’s last game. He will outcoach Joe Pa (and Addazio) by himself.
EDGE: GATORS

I invite all gators to recover from all the New Years’ debauchery to spend time with the Orange and Blue as we say farewell to Coach Meyer. A fitting tribute to a man who helped put us back on the map. I look forward to speaking with you guys to get input for next season and hear any ideas you may have. I want to thank everyone for coming this season, and know that we will be taking the Orange and Blue to new heights in 2011.

Also, anyone interested meeting up for Gator Basketball games, feel free to email Mike.

Go Gators!

Mike

Spitfire 2219 4th Ave
Seattle, WA 98121 (Belltown)
(206) 441-7966