When the slate of bowl games was announced less than 10 days ago, the matchup in the Cotton Bowl between the Oklahoma Sooners and Florida Gators looked like one of the season’s top offerings. Aside from the big brand names, the teams boast two of the most dangerous offenses in the country. The Sooners would also have a chance to showcase their reinvigorated defense on a national stage.
Needless to say, a deluge of opt-outs by Florida stars has taken plenty of shine off the matchup. The three leading receivers for the Gators – Kadarius Taylor, Kyle Pitts and Trevon Grimes – all decided to sit out.