In Case You Missed It: SEC Week 4

By Chris Marler

There were a million games Saturday, so it’s unreasonable to think that you caught everything. That’s what we’re here for. Here’s everything you may not have seen in the SEC, in case you missed it.

Billy Napier did something right

When Billy Napier announced that Florida would be using a two-quarterback system with freshman DJ Lagway and senior Graham Mertz it felt like a disaster waiting to happen. Ultimately, one of his best players and best reasons for keeping his job is the future with the superstar freshman. But rarely does a two-quarterback system actually work, especially at this level of football.

Napier has faced constant criticism as the head coach at Florida. Hell, even videos of him opening water bottles are scrutinized and go viral on social media.

But, he got this decision right. Florida quarterbacks combined to go 26-of-28 passes for over 320 yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions in the Gators, 45-28, win at Mississippi State.

You better sign up for 60 against LSU

A season ago LSU led the country in second half scoring offense at over 22 points per game, and despite losing a Heisman winner and three first round draft picks, LSU continues to be one of the best second half teams in the country. They’ve been tied or trailing at the half each of the last two games and were only up by single digits against Nicholls. But, the Tigers have outscored their last three opponents 58-16 in the second half and outscored UCLA 17-0 Saturday.

For all the question marks and deficiencies this team has, they’re halftime coaching adjustments and ability to finish games has been great in their last three wins.

Robby Ashford won the breakup 

Robby Ashford had a very up and down, forgettable career while at Auburn and was blamed by fans for a lot of the team’s shortcomings last season. He transferred to South Carolina last year marking the third team he’s played for during his college career, but has been the backup to LaNorris Sellers. Saturday was his day in the sun as he got the start versus Akron in place of an injured Sellers.

Ashford balled out, completing over 70 percent of his passes, amassing 376 total yards and scoring three touchdowns in a 50-7 win. Meanwhile, his former school Auburn lost to Arkansas as their quarterbacks combined for five interceptions in the game, bringing their season total to nine.

Vandy is 4-0 (in our hearts)

Vandy went to Mizzou as a 20-point underdog and left with another heartbreaking loss, their second straight. The ‘Dores lost in double overtime to Mizzou after a missed field goal. Vandy isn’t America’s team. Vandy is your nephew’s tee ball team. You don’t care if they win or lose, and you’re pretty sure they don’t either. You’re just there for the entertainment of watching the one good player (Diego Pavia) end up losing because some kid named Paxton ran to third base instead of first for the final out.