Florida aims to extend win streak

GAINESVILLE— The Florida Gators’ closest call during their 26- game winning streak against Kentucky occurred10 years ago Friday.

The circumstances were eerily similar to those surrounding Saturday’s visit to the Bluegrass State.

Gators freshman QB Chris Leak made his first start that day for the 2003 Gators, rallying Florida from a 21- 3 fourth- quarter deficit to complete the biggest road comeback in school history. The 24- 21 is the narrowest margin of victory during the streak. The Gators ( 2- 1, 1- 0 SEC) hope redshirt junior Tyler

Murphy does not have to produce similar magic during his first start in place of injured Jeff Driskel. With Driskel and star DT Dominique Easley out with injuries, Florida, a 13- point favorite, could be in for a close game with Kentucky ( 1- 2).

“We’ve got our work cut out for us, the first SEC road game up in Lexington,” coach Will Muschamp said. “Whatever the streak is, it doesn’t matter. It only matters whatwe do on Saturday.”

The Wildcats have lost the past five meetings by an average of 40.4, including last season’s 38- 0 defeat in the Swamp. But Kentucky is averaging 490 yards on offense and playing solid defense under first- year coach Mark

Stoops, the former Florida State defensive coordinator. “Mark Stoops has those guys playing with a lot of effort and energy up there,” South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier said.

Next game: at Kentucky, Saturday at 7 p. m., ESPNU