The 2024 Florida Gators football schedule is set to feature a challenging slate of games, including marquee matchups against some of the top teams in the country. Head coach Billy Napier will look to build on his successful first season in Gainesville, where he led the Gators to a 9-4 record and a berth in the Las Vegas Bowl. The 2024 campaign promises to be even more exciting, with Florida facing off against several ranked opponents and traveling to some of the most hostile environments in college football.
One of the highlights of the 2024 schedule is the annual rivalry game against the Georgia Bulldogs. This year’s contest will take place in Jacksonville, Florida, and is sure to be a sellout. The Gators will also face off against their other SEC East rivals, including the Tennessee Volunteers, Kentucky Wildcats, and South Carolina Gamecocks. Additionally, Florida has scheduled non-conference games against the Miami Hurricanes, Florida State Seminoles, and Utah Utes, all of whom are expected to be competitive in 2024.
The 2024 Florida Gators football schedule is a challenging one, but it also presents a great opportunity for the team to prove itself on a national stage. With a talented roster and an experienced coaching staff, the Gators have the potential to make a deep run in the College Football Playoff. Fans can expect an exciting and memorable season in 2024, as the Gators look to return to their winning ways and compete for a national championship.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Florida Gators football schedule, game by game, and analyze the key matchups and potential storylines.
2024 Florida Gators Football Schedule
Challenging slate of games awaits Gators.
- Season opener vs. Miami Hurricanes
- Annual rivalry with Georgia Bulldogs
- Home game vs. Tennessee Volunteers
- Road trip to Kentucky Wildcats
- Non-conference matchup vs. Utah Utes
- In-state rivalry with Florida State Seminoles
- Potential SEC Championship Game appearance
The 2024 Florida Gators football schedule is sure to provide plenty of excitement and drama for fans of the Orange and Blue.
Season opener vs. Miami Hurricanes
The 2024 Florida Gators football season kicks off with a highly anticipated matchup against the Miami Hurricanes. This non-conference showdown is sure to generate plenty of excitement and intrigue, as both teams look to make a statement early in the year.
- Rivalry renewed: The Gators and Hurricanes have a long and storied rivalry, dating back to 1938. The two teams have met 67 times overall, with Florida holding a slight edge in the series record (33-31-3).
- New era in Miami: The 2024 season will mark the beginning of a new era for the Miami Hurricanes, as Mario Cristobal takes over as head coach. Cristobal, a former player and assistant coach at Miami, is tasked with returning the Hurricanes to national prominence.
- Talented rosters: Both Florida and Miami boast talented rosters heading into the 2024 season. The Gators return a number of key players, including quarterback Anthony Richardson and wide receiver Justin Shorter. The Hurricanes, meanwhile, have added several highly touted recruits, including quarterback Jaden Rashada and running back Rueben Owens.
- High-stakes matchup: The season opener between Florida and Miami is a high-stakes matchup for both teams. A win would give either team a major boost heading into the rest of the season. For Florida, it would be a statement victory against a ranked opponent. For Miami, it would be a signature win for Cristobal in his first game as head coach.
The 2024 Florida Gators football season opener against the Miami Hurricanes is sure to be a memorable event. With talented rosters on both sides and a long history of rivalry between the two teams, this game is one that fans of both teams will not want to miss.
Annual rivalry with Georgia Bulldogs
The annual rivalry between the Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs is one of the most heated and intense in all of college football. The two teams have met 99 times overall, with Georgia holding a slight edge in the series record (54-44-2). The game is known for its passionate fan bases and electric atmosphere, and it is always one of the most anticipated games of the season for both teams.
- SEC East showdown: The Florida-Georgia game is a crucial matchup in the SEC East Division. The winner of the game often goes on to represent the East in the SEC Championship Game. In recent years, the game has had a major impact on the College Football Playoff race, with both teams making appearances in the playoff in recent seasons.
- National implications: The Florida-Georgia game often has national implications, as both teams are typically ranked among the top teams in the country. A win in this game can boost a team’s chances of making the College Football Playoff or winning a New Year’s Six bowl game.
- Talented rosters: Both Florida and Georgia have talented rosters heading into the 2024 season. The Gators return a number of key players, including quarterback Anthony Richardson and wide receiver Justin Shorter. The Bulldogs, meanwhile, have added several highly touted recruits, including quarterback Arch Manning and running back Branson Robinson.
- Unpredictable rivalry: The Florida-Georgia game is known for being unpredictable. The two teams have traded wins back and forth in recent years, and the game is often decided by a few key plays. The 2024 matchup is sure to be another close and exciting contest.
The annual rivalry between the Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs is one of the most anticipated games of the college football season. With passionate fan bases, talented rosters, and national implications, this game is sure to be a memorable event in 2024.
Home game vs. Tennessee Volunteers
The Florida Gators will host the Tennessee Volunteers in a highly anticipated SEC East showdown in 2024. The two teams have a long and storied rivalry, dating back to 1916. The Volunteers hold a slight edge in the series record (24-21-3), but the Gators have won the last two meetings.
- SEC East implications: The Florida-Tennessee game is a crucial matchup in the SEC East Division. The winner of the game will take a big step towards winning the division and representing the East in the SEC Championship Game. Both teams are expected to be contenders in the SEC East in 2024, so this game could have major implications for the conference race.
- Talented rosters: Both Florida and Tennessee have talented rosters heading into the 2024 season. The Gators return a number of key players, including quarterback Anthony Richardson and wide receiver Justin Shorter. The Volunteers, meanwhile, have added several highly touted recruits, including quarterback Nico Iamaleava and wide receiver Evan Stewart.
- Electric atmosphere: The Florida-Tennessee game is known for its electric atmosphere. The game is always played in front of a sellout crowd at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, and the fans are known for their passion and enthusiasm. This game is sure to be one of the most exciting and memorable games of the 2024 season.
- Recent dominance: The Florida Gators have dominated the recent history of the Florida-Tennessee rivalry. The Gators have won the last two meetings, and they have a 10-4 record against the Volunteers since 2005. The Gators will be looking to continue their recent dominance in this rivalry when they host Tennessee in 2024.
The Florida Gators’ home game against the Tennessee Volunteers is sure to be a memorable event in 2024. With talented rosters, SEC East implications, and an electric atmosphere, this game is one that fans of both teams will not want to miss.
Road trip to Kentucky Wildcats
The Florida Gators will face a tough road test when they travel to Lexington, Kentucky, to take on the Kentucky Wildcats in 2024. The Wildcats have been one of the most improved teams in the SEC in recent years, and they are expected to be a contender in the SEC East in 2024.
The Wildcats are led by head coach Mark Stoops, who has done a remarkable job turning Kentucky into a competitive program. Stoops has led the Wildcats to five bowl games in the past six seasons, including a Citrus Bowl victory in 2018. Kentucky is known for its strong defense, which has been one of the best in the SEC in recent years. The Wildcats also have a talented offense, led by quarterback Will Levis and running back Chris Rodriguez.
The Florida-Kentucky game is always a competitive matchup, and the 2024 contest is sure to be no different. The Gators will be looking to extend their winning streak against the Wildcats to three games, while Kentucky will be looking to pull off an upset and improve their chances of winning the SEC East.
The game will be played at Kroger Field, which is known for its loud and passionate fan base. The Wildcats have one of the best home-field advantages in the SEC, and the Gators will need to be prepared for a hostile environment. However, the Gators have a talented team and they should be up to the challenge.
The Florida Gators’ road trip to Kentucky in 2024 is sure to be a memorable event. With a talented Kentucky team and a passionate fan base, this game is one that the Gators will need to be prepared for if they want to come away with a victory.
Non-conference matchup vs. Utah Utes
The Florida Gators will face a tough non-conference test when they travel to Salt Lake City, Utah, to take on the Utah Utes in 2024. The Utes have been one of the most consistent teams in the Pac-12 in recent years, and they are expected to be a contender for the conference title in 2024.
- Top-25 matchup: The Florida-Utah game is likely to be a top-25 matchup in 2024. Both teams are expected to be ranked in the preseason polls, and the game could have a major impact on the College Football Playoff race.
- Talented rosters: Both Florida and Utah have talented rosters heading into the 2024 season. The Gators return a number of key players, including quarterback Anthony Richardson and wide receiver Justin Shorter. The Utes, meanwhile, have added several highly touted recruits, including quarterback Bryson Barnes and running back Jaylon Glover.
- Home-field advantage: The Utah Utes have one of the best home-field advantages in the country. Rice-Eccles Stadium is known for its loud and passionate fan base, and the Utes have a winning record at home in recent years. The Gators will need to be prepared for a hostile environment if they want to come away with a victory.
- Recent history: The Florida Gators and Utah Utes have only met once before, in the 2021 Las Vegas Bowl. The Utes won that game 38-21, but the Gators will be looking to avenge that loss in 2024.
The Florida Gators’ non-conference matchup against the Utah Utes in 2024 is sure to be a memorable event. With talented rosters, a top-25 ranking, and a hostile environment, this game is one that both teams will be looking forward to.
In-state rivalry with Florida State Seminoles
The Florida Gators and Florida State Seminoles have one of the most heated and intense rivalries in all of college football. The two teams are separated by just over 100 miles, and they have a long history of competing for state supremacy. The Seminoles hold a slight edge in the series record (28-26-2), but the Gators have won the last three meetings.
- Sunshine Showdown: The Florida-Florida State game is known as the “Sunshine Showdown.” The game is typically played in late November, and it is one of the most anticipated games of the college football season.
- National implications: The Florida-Florida State game often has national implications. Both teams are typically ranked among the top teams in the country, and the game can have a major impact on the College Football Playoff race.
- Talented rosters: Both Florida and Florida State have talented rosters heading into the 2024 season. The Gators return a number of key players, including quarterback Anthony Richardson and wide receiver Justin Shorter. The Seminoles, meanwhile, have added several highly touted recruits, including quarterback AJ Swann and running back Trey Benson.
- Unpredictable rivalry: The Florida-Florida State rivalry is known for being unpredictable. The two teams have traded wins back and forth in recent years, and the game is often decided by a few key plays. The 2024 matchup is sure to be another close and exciting contest.
The Florida Gators’ in-state rivalry with the Florida State Seminoles is one of the most passionate and intense rivalries in college football. With talented rosters, national implications, and an unpredictable nature, this game is sure to be a memorable event in 2024.
Potential SEC Championship Game appearance
The Florida Gators have a chance to make a run at the SEC Championship Game in 2024. The Gators have a talented roster and a favorable schedule, which gives them a good chance to win the SEC East Division.
- SEC East contenders: The Florida Gators are one of the top contenders in the SEC East Division in 2024. The Gators have a talented roster and a lot of experience, and they will be looking to build on their success from the 2023 season.
- Favorable schedule: The Gators have a favorable schedule in 2024. They avoid some of the top teams in the SEC West, and they have a number of winnable games on their schedule. This gives them a good chance to finish with a strong record and earn a spot in the SEC Championship Game.
- Recent history: The Gators have a history of success in the SEC Championship Game. They have won the SEC Championship three times in the past decade, and they have appeared in the game five times overall. This experience will be valuable for the Gators as they try to make a run at the championship in 2024.
- Talented roster: The Gators have a talented roster heading into the 2024 season. They return a number of key players, including quarterback Anthony Richardson and wide receiver Justin Shorter. The Gators also have a strong recruiting class coming in, which will help to bolster their depth and talent.
The Florida Gators have a good chance to make a run at the SEC Championship Game in 2024. They have a talented roster, a favorable schedule, and a lot of experience. If the Gators can stay healthy and play to their potential, they could be one of the top teams in the SEC in 2024.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 2024 Florida Gators football schedule:
Question 1: When is the Florida Gators’ first game in 2024?
Answer 1: The Florida Gators’ first game in 2024 is on Saturday, August 31, against the Miami Hurricanes at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Florida.
Question 2: When is the Florida Gators’ annual rivalry game against the Georgia Bulldogs?
Answer 2: The Florida Gators’ annual rivalry game against the Georgia Bulldogs is on Saturday, October 12, at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida.
Question 3: When is the Florida Gators’ home game against the Tennessee Volunteers?
Answer 3: The Florida Gators’ home game against the Tennessee Volunteers is on Saturday, November 2, at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Florida.
Question 4: When is the Florida Gators’ road trip to Kentucky?
Answer 4: The Florida Gators’ road trip to Kentucky is on Saturday, November 16, at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.
Question 5: When is the Florida Gators’ non-conference matchup against the Utah Utes?
Answer 5: The Florida Gators’ non-conference matchup against the Utah Utes is on Saturday, September 28, at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Question 6: When is the Florida Gators’ in-state rivalry game against the Florida State Seminoles?
Answer 6: The Florida Gators’ in-state rivalry game against the Florida State Seminoles is on Saturday, November 30, at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida.
Question 7: When is the SEC Championship Game in 2024?
Answer 7: The SEC Championship Game in 2024 is on Saturday, December 7, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ: These are just some of the most frequently asked questions about the 2024 Florida Gators football schedule. For more information, please visit the Florida Gators athletics website.
Now that you know more about the 2024 Florida Gators football schedule, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your gameday experience:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your gameday experience in 2024:
Tip 1: Arrive early: The gates to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium typically open two hours before kickoff. Arriving early will give you plenty of time to find your seats, grab a bite to eat, and soak up the pre-game atmosphere.
Tip 2: Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes: The Florida sun can be intense, so be sure to wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking on gameday, so you’ll want to make sure your feet are happy.
Tip 3: Bring a clear bag: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium has a clear bag policy, so make sure to bring a clear bag if you want to bring any items into the stadium with you. You can find clear bags for sale at most sporting goods stores.
Tip 4: Be respectful of other fans: The Florida Gators have a passionate fan base, so be respectful of other fans, even if they’re cheering for the opposing team. Remember, we’re all there to enjoy a great game of football.
Closing Paragraph for Tips: By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable gameday experience in 2024.
Now that you know more about the 2024 Florida Gators football schedule and have some tips for making the most of your gameday experience, it’s time to start planning your trip to Gainesville.
Conclusion
The 2024 Florida Gators football schedule is sure to be an exciting one, with a challenging slate of games and several opportunities for the Gators to make a statement on the national stage. The Gators will face off against some of the top teams in the country, including the Georgia Bulldogs, Tennessee Volunteers, and Utah Utes. They will also have a chance to avenge their loss to the Florida State Seminoles in the 2023 season. With a talented roster and an experienced coaching staff, the Gators have the potential to make a deep run in the College Football Playoff in 2024.
For fans of the Florida Gators, the 2024 season is one that you won’t want to miss. Make sure to mark your calendars and start planning your trip to Gainesville. The Swamp will be rocking in 2024, and the Gators will be looking to make a statement to the rest of the country.