1969 Gator Bowl


The 1969 Gator Bowl was a post-season college football bowl game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Florida Gators, both representing the SEC. Florida defeated Tennessee, 14-13.

Game summary

The expected high-scoring battle featuring Florida's "Super Sophs" passing attack against Tennessee's powerful ground game led by quarterback Bobby Scott never materialized, as both defenses were superb in the Gators' 14–13 win. Quarterback John Reaves connected with wide receiver Carlos Alvarez for the Gators' only offensive touchdown, and the Gator defense stopped the Volunteers at Florida's one-yard line late in the game to preserve the victory. The game's MVPs were Florida linebacker Mike Kelley, who had an interception, a fumble recovery, a blocked punt recovered for a touchdown, a sack, and 17 tackles, and fullback Curt Watson of Tennessee.