SEC foes should fear Gators in potential trap games says Athlon Sports
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Florida's Week 4 clash with Ole Miss, along with their Week 9 battle with Oklahoma, may be two of the most dangerous trap games of the 2026 college football season, according to Athlon Sports.
The outlet compiled a list of the matchups likely to shape next season's playoff picture, headlined by Ohio State's Nov. 21 battle with Nebraska. Notable SEC clashes mentioned included South Carolina hosting Georgia on Nov. 21, Texas traveling to Missouri on Nov. 7, and Kentucky welcoming LSU on Oct. 10.
The Gators appeared twice on the list, with Oklahoma on upset alert on Nov. 7 when the Sooners come to Gainesville in Week 9; that matchup ranks eighth on the list.
"With massive home showdowns that could factor heavily into playoff positioning against Ole Miss (Nov. 14) and Texas A&M (Nov. 21) on the horizon, the Sooners cannot afford to overlook this trip to Gainesville. Florida should be improved under new coach Jon Sumrall and will be especially dangerous late in the season after time to develop under the staff," says senior editor Steven Lassan.
Florida's Sept. 26 meeting with Ole Miss, which checks in at No. 11 in the rankings, will be a rematch of last season's 34-24 loss when the Orange and Blue led Trinidad Chambliss and company 24-20 at half before allowing two fourth-quarter touchdowns.
The Rebels will make the journey to Gainesville after what is sure to be a highly emotional fight with LSU in Oxford. This scenario, combined with travel and the potential raucous environment at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, gives experts faith in Jon Sumrall's side.
"The showdown against LSU and former coach Lane Kiffin in Oxford is one of the most-anticipated matchups of 2026. A trip to Gainesville following an emotional week is a dangerous spot and a potential classic letdown game for coach Pete Golding’s team," Lassan goes on to say.
While the Gators are not a preseason favorite, the team is expected to at least play disruptor in both the conference and playoff races.
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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: SEC foes should fear Gators in potential trap games says Athlon Sports
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