3 Biggest X-Factors For Florida to Take Down Kentucky

The Florida Gators are coming off another tough loss a week ago to the Oklahoma Sooners, sending the team even further down the standings.

Florida will now be looking to turn things around this week, heading on the road to face off against the No. 11-ranked Kentucky Wildcats. The Gators hold a record of 5-4 on the year, with the team going 3-4 so far in SEC play.

As for the Wildcats, they have been one of the bigger surprises in the conference this season, with the team going 7-2 so far. Kentucky has done damage in the SEC as well, going 5-2 in conference matchups this season.

 Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for the Gators to pull off the upset of Kentucky on the road this week:

1. Feed Jadan Baugh

Florida's running game has gone cold after an extremely scorching start to the season that provided them with a spark. Running back Jadan Baugh has struggled of late, and it's led to some real issues with the offense each week.

But against Kentucky, the Gators need to get the running game going again, which could help open up the entire offense. Baugh had Heisman Trophy talk earlier in the season, and the Gators need him to step up heavily this week to help them get a win.

2. Aaron Philo Takes Over

After being benched last week, quarterback Aaron Philo will be given the nod to start for this team again. Philo has had an inconsistent year, with the Gators wanted to see more from him all season long.

Overall, Philo has thrown for 1,367 yards with nine touchdowns and five interceptions, but his decision-making has been one of the biggest question marks. Against Kentucky, this will be Philo's chance to reclaim his spot as the team's starter, proving himself to this coaching staff and program in the final weeks of the year.

3. Defense Comes to Play

Part of what made Florida so strong earlier in the season was the play of the defense, but this has fallen off lately. Head coach Jon Sumrall wants to see his guys play with more physicality, giving this team a better shot at winning this week.

If the defense is able to slow down the Wildcats' attack, it could allow the Gators' offense enough opportunities to put points on the board. But if they struggle again, this could be a very long game for the Gators once again, sending them even further behind.