The Quick Slant: Instant Analysis from Florida's 23-20 overtime loss to South Carolina
Saturday, November 15, 2014 | Football, Scott Carter
GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- The Gators had a seven-point lead and appeared on the way to a game-clinching score late in the fourth quarter when ... well, still not exactly sure what happened other than a nightmare ending for the home team.
The Gators had a field goal blocked. They got the ball back and went three-and-out. They then had a punt blocked. South Carolina scored in the final seconds on a fumbled pitched, and then the game went into overtime.
The Gators kicked a field goal and South Carolina scored a touchdown. Ballgame. The Head Ball Coach had an inexplicable victory in his return to The Swamp.
Florida's stunning 23-20 loss ended with Gamecocks quarterback Dylan Thompson heaving the ball into the air after his 4-yard touchdown run in the first overtime dealt the Gators and head coach Will Muschamp a crushing loss.
Here is our instant analysis of UF's loss to the Gamecocks:
THE QUICK SLANT
WHAT IT MEANS: The loss terminated any chance the Gators had at winning the SEC East title. The Gators had to win Saturday and get help from Auburn on Saturday night in its game against Georgia to remain alive in the division race. Instead, a third consecutive loss at The Swamp snuffed out Florida's attempt to rally for a division crown.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The coaches took center stage in this one as Spurrier returned to UF amidst speculation about his future. Of course, speculation about Muschamp's future had quieted after back-to-back wins against Georgia and Vanderbilt. In the immediate aftermatch of South Carolina's comeback win, Spurrier was pleased at a much-needed win and Muschamp disappointed at a crushing loss.
STAGGERING STATISTIC: South Carolina took a 10-0 lead in the first quarter while rolling up 136 yards of total offense. The Gamecocks managed only 165 yards the rest of the game but the two blocked kicks allowed them to overcome a very dry performance against Florida's stingy defense.
SUBPLOT: There is only one after this game: Muschamp's future. Much like after the 29-point loss to Missouri on Homecoming, speculation soared after Saturday's game about his future. The Gators had played well since freshman Treon Harris took over as the starting quarterback but those good vibes were washed away by Saturday's defeat.
UP NEXT: The Gators are home again next week on Senior Day, with Eastern Kentucky coming to town. Florida has lost six of its last eight games at home so ending the home portion of the schedule with a victory would at least send those seniors out on a positive note.
