WATCH: Florida keeps it competitive before half with Hail Mary TD vs. LSU

The Florida Gators did not get off to a hot start on Saturday against LSU. The Gators struck first with a seven yard touchdown run from Dameon Pierce in the first quarter, but the extra point was blocked. LSU controlled things from there, but Florida got back on the board on a miraculous Hail Mary as time expired in the second quarter.

LSU went up 21-6 in the second quarter after Florida threw interceptions on back-to-back throws. One was from Emory Jones, and the other was by Anthony Richardson. Florida easily could have run the clock out and gotten to halftime, but head coach Dan Mullen opted to try and get some points to end the first half.

Florida drove down the field from its own 23-yard line, eventually finding the end zone as time expired. Emory Jones launched a ball into the right corner of the end zone, and Justin Shorter came down with the 42-yard touchdown. LSU did not even appear to attempt to knock the ball down.

As called on Florida Gators radio: pic.twitter.com/wEbDCn1zby

— Timothy Burke (@bubbaprog) October 16, 2021

LSU has been solid offensively against Florida in the first half

While Florida threw interceptions on two consecutive throws, LSU has been mistake free in the first half. Quarterback Max Johnson is 10 of 18 for 90 yards and two touchdowns. Both of Johnson’s touchdowns were to Jaray Jenkins, who has three catches for 49 yards and the two scores. The Tigers have also been able to run the ball well, as Tyrion Davis-Price has 94 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries.

For Florida, Jones is 11 of 15 for 143 yards along with the touchdown and interception against LSU. The Gators have had no success running the ball so far. In the first half, Nay’Quan Wright was Florida’s leading rusher, but he had just 13 yards on four carries. Jones has 12 yards on eight attempts, while Dameon Pierce’s lone carry was the seven-yard score early on.