Florida vs. Tennessee: GatorMaven staff picks and predictions

How does GatorMaven see Florida vs. Tennessee playing out?

Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports

As new starting quarterback Kyle Trask and the ninth-ranked Florida Gators prepare to take on long-time rival the Tennessee Volunteers, GatorMaven has its predictions of the outcome ready.

Keep in mind, the latest spread has Florida favored by 14 points, according to OddsShark.

Let's get straight to it.

Zach Goodall: Florida 31, Tennessee 13

There's no way the Gators put one in the loss column against the team that lost to Georgia freaking State, or to BYU in overtime, right?

Florida has a 16-4 record at home against the Volunteers over the course of the rivalry's history, and the only way that changes today is for the better. I think we'll see a 2-QB system with both Kyle Trask and Emory Jones, but only because Jones will step into the game after Florida takes a commanding lead.

What the Gators will need to see is an improved running game. Tennessee has defended the run well this year, so it will be a test, but in order for Florida to be successful this year, they need to gain momentum by running the ball. Perhaps that can start today against a weaker SEC opponent.

Graham Marsh: Florida 35, Tennessee 10

Tennessee is bad. Like, atrociously bad. 

The Vols don’t belong on the same field as Florida and I expect that to show today early. Look for early big plays from the likes of Jonathan Greenard, Van Jefferson, Josh Hammond, etc. I like touchdowns from the Gators while the game is still young, and turnovers from the Vols. 

Honestly, I expect a very similar game to last season.