News and Public Media for North Central Florida

Mullen and No. 10 Florida Breeze Past No. 7 Michigan in Peach Bowl Victory

Florida coach Dan Mullen holds up the Peach Bowl trophy during post-game celebration. Mullen revamped the program, leading a team that went 4-7 in the 2017 season to a 10-3 record in 2018, along with a victory in a New Years Six bowl game.

Florida defensive back Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (23) picks off Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson (2) for a 30-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Gardner-Johnson finished with 2 interceptions, five tackles, and won defensive MVP.

Florida defensive back Jeawon Taylor (29) pumps the crowd up as the defense comes up with a big stop on fourth down.

Florida running back Lamical Perine (22) breaks free for a 55-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Perine lead all rushers with 76-yards on 6 carries.

As Florida's lead continues to grow, Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh hangs his head in frustration as his team struggles to stay in the game.

Florida safety Amari Burney (30) wraps up Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson (2) for a sack. The Gators put pressure on Patterson all game, sacking him five times.

Florida punter Tommy Townsend (43) makes a

Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks (13) drops back to pass. Franks threw for one touchdown and went 13/23, compiling for 173-yards in the air.

Florida linebacker David Reese (33) brings down Michigan running back Chris Evans (12).

Florida running back Lamical Perine (22) strikes a pose in celebration after his 53-yard touchdown run.

Michigan running back Christian Turner (41) breaks free for a big run in the first quarter. Turner lead the Wolverines in rushing, totaling just 32-yards on seven carries.

Breaking tackles and evading defenders during a 20-yard run, Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks (13) dives for a touchdown in the second quarter. Franks was the second leading rusher for the Gators, gaining 74-yards on 14 carries.

Florida safety Amari Burney (5) sacks Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson (2). Burney was one of five different Gators to bring down Patterson.

Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson (2) drops back to pass. Patterson threw for one touchdown and two interceptions, and finished with 236-years on 22/36.

Michigan defensive back Lavert Hill (24) is unable to break up the pass as Florida wide receiver Josh Hammond (10) secures the ball on a pass from quarterback Feleipe Franks (13).

After time expires, Florida's Jacob Tilghman (49) jumps on the back of his teammate Fred Johnson (74) as they celebrate securing a victory against the Wolverines.

Florida running back Lamical Perine (22) catches a 5-yard pass from quarterback Feleipe Franks (13).

After catching a 9-yard touchdown pass, wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones (9) celebrates with quarterback Shea Patterson (2). This touchdown was Patterson's only score of the game.

Florida running back Jordan Scarlett (25) stiffarms Michigan linebacker Khaleke Hudson (7) as he fights for yards.

Florida coach Dan Mullen shows his frustration toward a referee after a pass-interference call.

Florida defensive players celebrate after stopping Michigan on a fourth down play.

Gator fans celebrate their team's victory.

Florida linebacker Jeremiah Moon (7) is congratulated by teammate Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (23) after making a tackle.

Offensive MVP, Feleipe Franks (right), and defensive MVP, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (left), embrace during the trophy presentation.

Florida defensive lineman Cece Jefferson (96) sacks Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson (2).

Michigan running back Chris Evans (12) weaves through the defense before being brought down from behind by Florida defensive lineman Jachai Polite (99).

Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson (2) hands off to running back Chris Evans (12).

Albert the Alligator, Florida's mascot, enjoys his time in the victory confetti after the game.

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Greenberry Taylor is a reporter who can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.