What Josh Heupel said about Tennessee football snapping Florida losing streak

Josh Heupel was aware everyone affiliated with Tennessee football knew the history at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

So the Vols coach went to enjoy it with everyone from fans to his players following a historic win for Tennessee as it snapped a 10-game losing at Florida that spanned 22 years.

“Lot was made before we came down here about the streak," Heupel said. "Proud of our guys’ preparation to give themselves a chance to come down here and win. A good night for Tennessee.”

The No. 20 Vols (8-3, 5-3 SEC) won 31-11 against the Gators (3-8, 2-6) on Nov. 22 at The Swamp for its first win in the venue since 2003 and matching its largest win at Florida in program history. It won 20-0 in 1955 and had only won by double-digits twice previously.

“This one mattered to them," Heupel said of his players. "There was a lot of fun inside of that locker room. It was important to them. They understood the history of this rivalry. We have talked about that. It was fun to see them enjoy this moment."

It marked Heupel's first win at Florida after losing 38-14 in 2021 and 29-16 in 2023.

Tennessee annihilated Florida immediately in this edition.

The Vols outgained Florida 190-1 and quarterback Joey Aguilar opened 9-for-9 for 126 yards and a touchdown in the first quarter.

The Vols scored on a 23-yard pass from Aguilar to tight end Ethan Davis on their opening drive. DeSean Bishop scored a 1-yard touchdown. Star Thomas added a 1-yard touchdown after a 52-yard run to set up the score. Bishop scored again from 1 yard out and the rout was on for the Vols.

Max Gilbert added a 25-yard field goal before halftime for a 31-0 lead.

Florida did not score until Trey Smack hit a 46-yard field goal with 2:04 to play in the third quarter. It did not get a touchdown until the fourth quarter when the game was well decided for Tennessee.

Mike Wilson covers University of Tennessee athletics. Email him at [email protected] and follow him on X @ByMikeWilson. If you enjoy Mike’s coverage, consider a digital subscription that will allow you access to all of it.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Josh Heupel on Tennessee snapping losing streak at Florida