We rebounded from our loss to Florida State by passing and rushing with a classic Florida balanced attack and going for the big plays.  To start Doug Johnson threw for two long TDs to player of the game #19 Travis Taylor.  He will be next years big play wide receiver.

Doug Johnson broke his leg, but Jesse Palmer stepped in and did not miss a beat.  Palmer threw for a TD and rushed for another one.  On the other side of the ball, the Gator defense held the complex Syracuse running attack and dangerous McNabb to 3 points (plus a gimme TD).  We will miss all those seniors and Jevon Kearse will be playing on Sundays real soon.  We will also miss Bob Stoops.

This "rare" Orange Bowl appearance was the first since 1967 when Steve Spurrier was the QB.  They went on to beat Georgia Tech.  Steve Spurrier coached another superb game not letting up on Syracuse, running the ball effectively with Terry Jackson (we will miss him too), and keeping the Syracuse defense confused with audibles.

Being at the game, I can tell you that Zach Piller gets my game ball.  This kid is awesome and he will be an impact player on Sunday's.  At 328+ lbs. this guy is quick and he protects and blocks like nobody else on that field.  He is awesome.

Johnson will be ready to go next season, but will be on crutches for 6-10 weeks.  Too bad he got hurt, this opened the door for Palmer and I am sure they will battle for the starting job this Spring.

The Gators prove that they deserved this BCS bowl bid and will finish once again in the Top 5.  Maybe they will finish ahead of fsu?  I am placing my bets on UT.  GO Vols and beat those semen-holes.  Hurry back to the swamp so we can kick your ass.

In summary, 1998 was mired by turnovers and lack of discipline.   We could have easily won the games against Tennessee and fsu.  Oh well!!   Wait until next year. I hope we improve one thing: TURNOVER RATIO.  We sucked in this category and that hurt us all year.  Let's improve.

This year was a "down year".  At 10-2, we really can't complain, but without a championship for the second year in a row, I am getting (I know many more Gators too that feel the same) a little frustrated.  We need the SEC title next year.  For that to happen we must beat UT, and sustain the rest of the SEC schedule.  I believe UGA will not be as good and our only tough test will be LSU on the road.

I wish the 1998 seniors the best of luck in the NFL draft or wherever your education takes you.

Thanks for a great year and GO Gators.