Dillon Gabriel opens up on Florida State defense

The Cheez-It Bowl sees Oklahoma quarterback Dillon Gabriel return to Orlando where he will take on Florida State. The Seminoles, who are in their first bowl since 2019, have had a phenomenal season, with the defense putting on a show throughout the season.

While speaking to the media ahead of the Cheez-It Bowl, Dillon Gabriel praised the Florida State defense.

“Yeah, really talented,” Dillon Gabriel explained. “Just a lot of good players and they play very well.”

Dillon Gabriel also pointed out that he has some good familiarity with the Florida State defense. In particular, he’s familiar with linebacker Tatum Bethune. Before landing at their current schools in the transfer portal, both of them played for UCF. So, they’ve competed on the practice field before.

“Pretty familiar with my guy Tatum. So, good to see him again, but just, like I said, lot of talented guys and they played really well this whole season.”

This season, Florida State finished 13th in the country in total defense, only allowing 307.2 yards per game. Meanwhile, the Seminoles are 17th in the country in scoring defense, only allowing 19.67 points per game.

Dillon Gabriel explained his excitement to return to Orlando

After spending three seasons at UCF, Orlando became a kind of second home for Dillon Gabriel. Now, with the Cheez-It Bowl played in the city of Orlando, Gabriel is going to enjoy a sort of homecoming with this game.

“Just a lot of good memories,” Dillon Gabriel said.

“And then also just some good weather here in Florida. So that’s a good time. But like I said, just excited for the opportunity and to play in the Cheez-It Bowl against a good FSU team. We’re all excited to be here.”

Dillon Gabriel was a three-year starter for UCF, though the third season was cut short due to injury. He holds the program’s single-game passing record, throwing for 601 yards against Memphis in 2020. He’s fifth all-time with 8,037 passing yards and 70 passing touchdowns.