Where Florida football lands in preseason bowl projections

The Florida Gators are looking to return to postseason play after missing a bowl game for the fourth consecutive season in 2023. As the 2026 college football season approaches, bowl projections are starting to emerge, providing an early glimpse into how the 43-game bowl schedule might unfold. Despite a new head coach, Jon Sumrall, who has never missed postseason football in his career, there are still numerous questions to be answered before the season begins.

According to CBS Sports, the Gators are projected to face South Florida in the Cure Bowl. This game would give the Gators a chance to play an in-state opponent they have faced several times before, with the Gators holding a 3-1 lead over the Bulls since 2010. The only time USF won against Florida was in 2023, when they upset the Gators 18-16 in Gainesville.

This would be the first matchup between Florida and South Florida under Sumrall's leadership since he took over, offering the Gators an opportunity to rebound against their in-state rival.