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Florida and Tulane Eye Strong Finish in Gasparilla Bowl

Tulane and Florida will both be trying to pick up a win in the Gasparilla Bowl at Raymond James Stadium.

2024 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl

Tulane (9-4-0) at Florida (7-5-0)

  • When: Dec 20 2024, 3:30 PM
  • Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
  • Where to watch: ESPN2

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Tulane @ Florida
Moneyline

Tulane   +295
Florida   -390

Tulane @ Florida
Point Spread

Tulane   10.0 (-110)
Florida   -10.0 (-110)

Tulane @ Florida
Total

Over   49.5 (-110)
Under   49.5 (-110)

Passing Team Leaders:
Tulane: Ty Thompson 74 Yds
Florida: DJ Lagway 1610 Yds

Team Stats

Tulane   Florida
9-3 Record 7-5
9-3 ATS 8-4
7-5 O/U 6-6

Game Preview

With Florida favored by 10 points and the total set at 49.5, the Gasparilla Bowl presents intriguing betting angles as the Gators take on Tulane on Friday night in Tampa.

Florida’s Momentum and Key Players

The Florida Gators (7-5) have surged into bowl season after a rocky start, fueled by freshman quarterback DJ Lagway. After opening the season 4-4 and facing mounting pressure on head coach Billy Napier, Florida turned things around with an impressive three-game win streak, including victories over then-ranked LSU, Ole Miss, and Florida State. Lagway, who has thrown for 1,610 yards, 11 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, will look to continue his strong play despite managing a lingering hamstring issue.

Napier emphasized the team’s focus on maintaining momentum and minimizing opt-outs, signaling Florida’s intent to finish the season strong.

Tulane’s Turbulent Path

Tulane (9-4) entered the season with lofty College Football Playoff hopes after an eight-game win streak. However, back-to-back losses to Memphis and Army derailed their postseason dreams. Adding to their woes, Tulane’s quarterback situation is in flux after starter Darian Mensah and backup Kai Horton entered the transfer portal. The Green Wave will rely on former Oregon recruit Ty Thompson for his first career start.

Thompson, a dual-threat QB, has been effective in limited wildcat action this season, scoring six rushing touchdowns and completing 6 of 11 passes for 74 yards and two scores without an interception. He’ll have top offensive weapons Mario Williams and Makhi Hughes at his disposal.

Predictions and Betting Analysis

Florida’s recent form and superior talent suggest the Gators are poised to cover the 10-point spread. Lagway has proven capable of managing high-pressure situations, and the Gators’ defense, which held three ranked opponents to an average of just over 14 points per game during their win streak, should handle Tulane’s patchwork offense.

Tulane’s hopes hinge on Thompson’s ability to adapt quickly under center and the team’s reliance on Hughes to establish a consistent ground attack. However, Florida’s defense, allowing just 18.7 points per game during their final three contests, should limit Tulane’s scoring opportunities.

The total of 49.5 feels manageable, especially with Florida’s offensive firepower and Tulane’s defensive struggles late in the season. A likely scenario sees Florida pulling away with a strong second-half performance.

Handicappers Picks – Join for Free

Gasparilla Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Florida 34-17
The Pick: Florida -10 & Over 49½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364

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