Florida Rises Significantly in AP Poll After Win Over Ole Miss

The Florida Gators dominated the fourth-ranked Ole Miss Rebels on Saturday, with a 52-28 win. Following the victory, the Gators have moved up from 21st to eighth in the AP Poll. 

Jon Sumrall has completely changed the football program in just his first season as the head coach. Florida went 4-8 in 2025, but are 4-0 to start 2026 and have established themselves as contenders for the National Championship.

Sumrall came over with a strong track record, as he went 23-4 in two seasons at Troy and 20-8 in two seasons at Tulane, including a College Football Playoff appearance. He has brought the same success to the Gators, assembling a strong coaching staff around him and adding talent via the transfer portal.

Offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner and quarterback Aaron Philo have clicked seamlessly in leading Florida's offense after they spent last season together at Georgia Tech. Through the first four games, Philo has completed 72.4 percent of his passes for 917 yards, seven touchdowns, and two interceptions while rushing for 69 yards and three touchdowns. Philo has been efficient and has limited turnovers, leading to his success in his first year at Florida.

However, the Gators' offensive leader has been Heisman contender Jadan Baugh. Baugh has provided a ton in the run game, as he's rushed for the second-most yards in college football with 600 and the most rushing touchdowns with 11. He makes the offense go, setting up Philo and the play-action game for easy completions. 

Florida has two solid receivers in place, with Vernell Brown III catching 17 passes for 271 yards and two touchdowns, while Dallas Wilson has 14 receptions for 236 yards and two touchdowns.

The offense has been impressive, but the defense has also been a major reason why the Gators are undefeated thus far. 

Jayden Woods has been the most disruptive player, with 19 total tackles, four sacks, and a forced fumble in 2026. Woods has been their best pass rusher and will look to continue getting pressure on the quarterback.

DJ Coleman has also played well in the secondary with seven total tackles, two pass deflections, and two interceptions. He has made some big plays on defense and helped Florida force turnovers.

Sumrall's group is off to a phenomenal start in the 2026 season, and with their win over Ole Miss, they have sent a message that they are ready to contend.