By Tyler Holder

The UNF Deadbirds were upset-minded as they traveled Nov. 5 to the University of Florida. UNF knew it had to bring its all as it was taking on a nationally ranked Gators squad that has their eyes set on a national championship.

The Deadbirds A team did not have a very productive first half, unable to move up the field with consistency. The Gators took advantage of UNF’s mistakes and their own opportunities, scoring on several tries to take a 34-0 lead into halftime.

The Deadbirds slowed down UF’s offense in the second half but still failed to score. When the final whistle was blown, the Gators had beaten the Deadbirds 54-0.

The Gators’ size and injuries to key members hurt UNF in the match and left them at a huge disadvantage.

“Our team played great overall but the Gators had us outgunned,” Cody Neuweiler said. “They had about a hundred pounds on our forward pack and questionable calls held us from scoring on close tries.”

The Deadbird’s B team has been impressive in its previous matches this season, including wins against Florida State University and the University of Central Florida. Despite the marquee victories, the B team could not overcome UF’s B squad. The Deadbirds kept it close throughout the entire game but were unable to pull off the upset, losing 24-12.

The A team has struggled throughout the season against quality opponents. But with the
emergence of the B team, the future looks bright. Next weekend, the Deadbirds will host Florida State University in its final regular-season game.

The game is still up in the air, though, as FSU has expressed conflict with the date of the game. The game coincides with a home football game.

Schedule:
Nov. 12 vs. FSU