The Quick Slant: Instant Analysis from Florida's 24-19 loss at FSU
Sunday, November 30, 2014 | Football, Scott Carter
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- The Gators had a chance. And another one. And another one.
But in the end, a pair of missed field goals in the second half and a drive that stalled at midfield with less than two minutes remaining cost Florida any chance of sending out head coach Will Muschamp with a victory in a 24-19 loss to No. 1-ranked Florida State on Saturday.
Here is our instant analysis from Saturday's Florida-Florida State game at Doak Campbell Stadium:
THE QUICK SLANT
WHAT IT MEANS: The Gators finish the regular season 6-5 and lose to the Seminoles for the second consecutive season. Florida's bid to snap FSU's 27-game win streak came up short as FSU remains alive in its quest for a second consecutive national championship.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Muschamp's final game as Florida's head coach loomed over this matchup all week. Muschamp leaves with a 28-21 record in his four seasons and his final game transpired as many others during his tenure. Florida played great defense but was unable to muster enough offense with the game on the line.
STAGGERING STATISTIC: FSU quarterback Jameis Winston, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, had more interceptions (three) than completions (two) in the first quarter. Winston finished 12 of 24 for 125 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions.
SUBPLOT: The Gators had a first down at the 50-yard line with less than two minutes remaining. A touchdown would have put Florida in the lead. However, four consecutive pass attempts failed to result in any yards and the Seminoles took over with 1:42 left to run out the clock and extend their winning streak to 28.
UP NEXT: The Gators say goodbye to Muschamp and begin looking toward the future with a new head coach. First, defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin will serve as interim head coach while Florida awaits its bowl destination. As Muschamp departs, the remaining coaches will spend time recruiting and planning for the bowl game.
