Florida, Arkansas ready to let it fly

Franks’ revenge: Prior to transferring to Arkansas as a graduate, quarterback Feleipe Franks spent four years with Florida’s football program, starting in 21 games from 2017- 18. He’s been one of the biggest reasons for the Razorbacks’ quick turnaround under firstyear coach Sam Pittman, passing for more than 200 yards in every game thus far, and he’ll be key in an upset bid over Florida. Almost every Gators football game has been a shootout thus far, and the one loss came against a Texas A& M team led by Kellen Mond and his 338 yards and three touchdowns passing.

Play to strengths: Arkansas has one of the strongest pass defenses in the SEC, adept at both limiting explosive plays and forcing turnovers. The Razorbacks rank first in the league in interceptions ( 12) and second in yards allowed ( 222.2 per game). They’ll be facing their biggest challenge yet in quarterback Kyle Trask, a Heisman front- runner, and Florida’s explosive offense, which averages 363 yards and four touchdowns passing per game.

Keys for Florida

Win the turnover battle: While Arkansas has been among the best in the nation in forcing turnovers, it’s also done a good job of playing clean football with only four interceptions thrown and three fumbles lost. Florida’s defense will have to try and make Franks uncomfortable and bait him into making mistakes, something the Gators have not necessarily done well this season.

Establish the run: Florida’s offense has ranked among the best in the nation this season, but that’s largely been predicated upon passing the ball. Arkansas presents an enticing chance to get the run game going, as the Razorbacks allow an average of 179 rushing yards per game. The Gators should try to run the ball to set up play- action, to open the door for the explosive plays against a staunch pass defense.

Prediction

Florida 41, Arkansas 30: While Arkansas has put together an impressive season thus far, Florida is one of the best teams in the nation, and a national championship contender. The Gators’ offense will present too big of a problem for the Razorbacks to overcome.

NELSON CHENAULT/ USA TODAY SPORTS Arkansas quarterback Feleipe Franks has topped 200 passing yards in every game this season for the 3- 3 Razorbacks.

STEVE MITCHELL/ USA TODAY SPORTS Florida quarterback Kyle Trask is in the Heisman mix with his 1,815 passing yards and 22 touchdowns so far this season.