There once was a time that this rivalry had national championship implications for both teams.  Now, that scenario lies squarely in the Gators corner.  A win Saturday against FSU keeps the Gators hopes of a national title alive. 

       For FSU, a win would put a nice exclamation mark on a rebound season, perhaps one that will take them to the ACC title game in Tampa, should Maryland beats Boston College.  Regardless, FSU is headed to a bowl game. 

       Recent history in this series has the Gators on a four-game winning streak.  In fact, since Bobby Bowden took over as Head Coach at FSU, he has beaten every Florida Head Coach at least once, except Urban Meyer.  Meyer is 3-0 against Bobby.  What FSU needs not to be is preoccupied on what’s going on in the Maryland-Boston College game.  Doubtful that will happen.  The players know they can control only what is being played in Tallahassee.

      No question, Florida is the better team.  But we will see more emotion and fervor in this game Saturday than we’ve seen in some time.  The fact that the game is being played at Doak Campbell Stadium gives FSU a chance.  If they can play error free, they have a chance to spoil the Gators season.  Same goes for Florida, whose own worst enemy is themselves.  Their loss to Mississippi proves that very point.  

      Gators Head Coach Urban Meyer said his players are very focused.  Noles Head Coach Bobby Bowden hasn’t said much to this point.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see FSU get an early jump on Florida Saturday, but the Gators are just too good a team to be upended by FSU this season, home or away. 

      Florida is favored by 16 ½ points.  My pick:  Florida 34 Florida State 20.

      Tom Korun