Top Big Ten nonconference games includes this Florida matchup

It is no secret that Florida football faces one of the toughest schedules in the nation this fall but the Gators also represent a robust opponent for a few teams out there as well.

College Sports Wire’s Patrick Conn recently broke down the top five nonconference matchups for the Big Ten’s 2024 campaign, with the Orange and Blue taking on the UCF Knights as the final entry on the list.

“We have a Sunshine State matchup between the UCF Knights and Florida Gators in Week 6 of the 2024 season,” Conn begins.

“These two teams have only met three times in their history, the last being a 29-17 UCF win in the Uniion Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl in Gus Malzahn’s debut season with the Knights. The previous two matchups came in 1999 and 2006, the Gators won both matchups by a combined 100-27 margin. The latter matchup finished with a 42-0 score in favor of Florida.”

Conn continues by noting the number of Power Four matchups the two programs face.

“This is one of three Power Four matchups in nonconference play for the Gators, by far the most among power conference teams. The Knights are hoping to have a better go in year two of the Big 12 after finishing just 6-7 and 3-6 in conference play.”

Florida’s 2024 season opener

Florida and the Miami Hurricanes — another tough nonconference opponent for the Gators — open their schedule on Aug. 31 in Gainesville, Florida. Kickoff time is slated for 3:30 p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast on ABC Sports.

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