Dooley Grades the Gators

Gainesville Sun columnist Pat Dooley grades the Gators on offense, defense and special teams.

OFFENSE: C
First half: The Gators had 163 yards — only 80 of those rushing — on five possessions, and their only touchdown came on fourth down after a turnover.
Second half: Florida managed 212 yards but couldn't take advantage of the longest gain of the game on a pass from Tim Tebow to Aaron Hernandez.
For the game: There was some predictability in the offense again against a defense that was shredded a week ago by Georgia Tech.
DEFENSE: A
First half: Florida shut Vanderbilt out in the half and played well after struggling on the Commodores' first possession.
Second half: The Gators had some issues at the start of the second half, as Vandy drove 44 yards for its only score of the game.
For the game: Charlie Strong's defense came up with only one turnover but allowed only 199 total yards in another dominating performance.
SPECIAL TEAMS: A
First half: UF did an excellent job containing explosive kickoff returner Warren Norman, but Chris Rainey whiffed on a tackle after the Vandy punter dropped a snap at the end of the half.
Second half: Brandon James looked like he might break one but just couldn't find the second gear he needed or break one more tackle to shake loose.
For the game: Another good night for Caleb Sturgis and the coverage teams did a wonderful job containing Norman. The biggest special teams play was a Vandy goof.
OVERALL: B+
The Gators are 9-0, know who they will be playing in Atlanta and kept their win streak alive at 19 straight. That's all that matters.