Rex Grossman made his first collegiate start and responded with three touchdown passes to fellow freshman Jabar Gaffney as the Florida Gators defeated the LSU Tigers 41-9. Gaffney had scoring catches of 26, 59 and nine yards. His second touchdown catch came on a scramble play after the center snap went over Grossman's head. Grossman was able to scoop up the ball and throw it into the corner of the end zone to the awaiting Gaffney.

"He had a great game last week," said Grossman about Gaffney. "He gets open and makes good catches and he can run with it afterwards. I was definitely looking for him." Grossman finished 18 of 28 for 276 yards, 3 touchdowns and no interceptions.

The defense played well after allowing over 500 yards to Mississippi State last week. Mike Nattiel had two interceptions among Florida's four turnovers. Gator coach Steve Spurrier praised the effort of his defense.

"We came to the ballpark with alot of fire and enthusiasm, guys played their assignments," said Spurrier during his postgame radio interview. "Coach John Hoke had a good plan."

Robert Gillespie contributed 120 yards rushing on 19 carries. He says it was coach Spurrier's intention to establish the run against the Tigers. "In the past when the Gators run the ball we tend to win," said Gillespie. "From here on out we're going to try and establish the running game in order for us to be champions this year."

The win moved Florida to 5-1 overall and 3-1 in the SEC. LSU fell to 3-3 and 1-2 in league play. The Gators host the Auburn Tigers at 3:30 eastern time next Saturday on CBS. The Gator Radio Network broadcast starts at 1:30 p.m.