Predicting each game on the 2026 Florida Gators football schedule.
The Florida Gators are set to begin the Jon Sumrall era, with there being optimism all over the place.
Florida wants to get back to being relevant in the national conversation, and the program believes Sumrall is the person to right the ship. Only time will tell for them, but quarterback Aaron Philo will have a lot on his shoulders this year.
The schedule is tough, giving Florida a big challenge in Sumrall's first year.
Here is a prediction for each game on the Gators 2026 schedule:
Week 1: vs Florida Atlantic, Win
The energy in the building should be high, with Florida fans feeling hopeful. Against Florida Atlantic, the Gators just have to not beat themselves to get the victory.
The Gators kick off the Sumrall era with a massive win, setting themselves up well for the season.
Week 2: vs Campbell, Win
Much like Week 1, the Gators shouldn't have much trouble here. I like Florida to start the new season 2-0, giving Sumrall his second win with the program.
Week 3: at Auburn, Win
The first SEC game for Sumrall as the head coach, and it's a tough road game. Auburn won't be an easy opponent by any means, but this is where he see Philo shine.
I like the Gators to get another win to open the season.
Week 4: vs Ole Miss, Loss
Ole Miss is expected to be one of the best teams in the country this season, even with Lane Kiffin leaving town. In this game, Florida will keep it close for the first half, but then the Rebels take over.
Ole Miss hands the Gators their first loss of the year here.
Week 5: at Missouri, Win
This will be a big test for Florida, seeing how they respond to being punched in the mouth from the loss. Sumrall has been great in his career at having his players ready to go, and the same will be said here.
I like Florida to bounce back, getting back on track with a win.
Week 6: vs South Carolina, Win
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers could cause some problems for the Gators defense. But in the end, give me Florida to pull out the win.
Week 7: at Texas, Loss
The good vibes from the two straight wins end here. Texas is one of the top teams in the country, and they dominant the Gators in this game.
Week 8: Bye Week
Week 9: vs Georgia (Atlanta), Loss
The hits keep coming for the Gators after the bye week. Facing Georgia is never easy, and the Gators, much like against Texas, can't keep up with the Bulldogs.
Week 10: vs Oklahoma, Loss
This will be another tough game for the Gators, with Oklahoma being a top team in the country. Sooner quarterback John Mateer is one of the best in the nation, and he will carve up the Florida defense here.
Give me Oklahoma to hand Florida its third straight loss.
Week 11: at Kentucky, Win
After three straight losses, a road game against Kentucky won't be easy for Florida. But I like the Gators to bounce back here, getting a much-needed win.
Week 12: vs Vanderbilt, Win
Similar to the game against the Wildcats, the Gators need to finish the year on a high note. Playing Vanderbilt could be tough, with the Commodores not being pushovers any longer in the SEC.
But in the end, give me the Gators to sneak away with the victory in this game.
Week 13: at Florida State, Win
This rivalry is always a fun one to end the season, with Florida having won two in a row. Sumrall adds to this, making it three straight over the inter-state rival.
It also gives the Gators some momentum heading into next season.
Final record prediction: 8-4, makes a bowl game
