Florida’s interim coach Billy Gonzales made his debut Saturday, but the Gators couldn’t complete an upset bid against No. 5 Georgia.
The Bulldogs rallied for a 24-20 victory at EverBank Stadium to extend their winning streak over Florida to five games. Georgia improved to 7-1 overall and 5-1 in SEC play, while the Gators dropped to 3-5 and 2-3 in conference.
Trey Smack connected on a 54-yard field goal early in the fourth quarter to give Florida a 20-17 lead.
The kick marked Smack’s ninth successful attempt from 50-plus yards this season, setting a new school record.
Georgia’s defense stepped up when it mattered most. The Bulldogs stopped Florida on fourth and 1 at the 18-yard line, then drove 82 yards for the game-winning score.
Gunner Stockton capped the drive by finding Chauncey Bowens for a 36-yard touchdown run with 4:36 remaining. Stockton completed 20 of 29 passes for 223 yards and two touchdowns in the victory.
Florida’s final possession ended on an incomplete deep pass that officials upheld after a replay review.
“I’m super proud of the way they bonded together,” Gonzales said. “They don’t have any quit in their DNA. We came here to win, but we came up short. The Gators expect to win. There are no moral victories.”
Georgia coach Kirby Smart credited his team’s ability to respond under pressure.
“This team just won’t go away. Every game in this league comes down to the last two possessions.”
The loss continues a difficult season for Florida, which made the coaching change earlier this week. Gonzales took over the program on an interim basis following the previous staff’s departure.
