Ventrell Miller says Florida's goal is to win out in 2022

The Gators went into the 2022 season knowing it would likely be a little bit of a rebuilding year for first-year coach Billy Napier, but that doesn’t mean Florida’s goals were anything less than winning the SEC East and getting a shot at a conference crown in Atlanta.

That’s probably an extreme long shot at this point, with Florida having lost to Kentucky and Tennessee to open SEC play at 0-2. But Florida’s goals generally remain the same.

At least they do for veteran middle linebacker Ventrell Miller, especially as the team readies for homecoming against Missouri.

“It’s definitely important,” Miller said. “The goal is to win out from here on out. It’s been a different energy at practice, more people flying around. We’re emphasizing people to communicate more so we’re on the same page.”

Florida did get back on track last weekend, beating Eastern Washington 52-17 on Sunday in a game delayed by Hurricane Ian. Of course, that delay also leaves the Gators with a short week of preparation against the Tigers.

But Missouri is also likely facing some challenges; a heart-breaking defeat in an upset bid of No. 2 Georgia could take an emotional toll, particularly with Missouri traveling all the way to Gainesville, Fla., for an early game.

Regardless, the first step in Miller’s plan is a win on Saturday.

“It’s SEC conference game, so everybody’s pumped up about going out there for that one,” he said.

Florida’s defense must improve going forward

If there’s been one obvious Achilles’ heel for the Gators so far in 2022 it’s been the play of the team’s defense.

Even last weekend against Eastern Washington, the unit surrendered 411 yards and 17 points. Sure, backups were responsible for some of that, and the Gators will have veteran safety Trey Dean back this weekend.

But stopping opponents has been a major issue all year.

In fact, Kentucky is the only team that hasn’t gained at least 400 yards of total offense against Florida. Tennessee, on the other hand, piled up 576 yards in a 38-33 win.

Missouri isn’t exactly explosive offensively, but then again Florida’s offense has been a bit Jekyll and Hyde this year as well. Bottom line: The Gators have to stiffen up and stop allowing opponents to move the ball so easily.

Napier and his squad will see if they can do that Saturday at noon ET as they set out on the first part of Miller’s challenge. The game will be broadcast on ESPNU.