It is never easy being the number one team in the nation. The Gators learned that Saturday when their 10 point victory over the University of Tennessee suddenly became a media "moral loss", if there even is such a thing. Granted, last year Florida destroyed most of their opponents with gawdy scores and the fans were expecting a bloodbath to silence the obnoxious SEC newcomer Lane Kiffin (now Gator fans should know how everyone else thought about Steve Spurrier all those years). But this is the Southeastern Conference and Florida will have much closer games than this one before they raise the conference trophy again. The scoreboard showed a tight battle but the outcome of the contest was never in question. While the Vols defense was impressive in slowing down a powerful Tebow led offense, the inept Jonathan Crompton literally had no chance against the Gators D, as Kiffin continually forced him to hand off, even in long yardage situations. The lack of confidence in his quarterback is probably completely justified, but is an issue that needs to be addressed quickly or else the only victories Tennessee will see this year will be of the moral variety. That's not what proud Volunteer fans are expecting from an NFL coaching staff receiving Yankee-like salaries.

The one constant was Tim Tebow, or Superman, as both Kiffins now call him. Despite a great gameplan designed by father Monte to slow down the All-World quarterback, Tebow made the big plays when required. The highlight of the game, and an instant You Tube classic, was the collision between Tebow and SEC defensive player of the year, Eric Berry. While Tebow probably got the better of the blow, falling forward and knocking Berry back, the hit brought Tebow down, temporarily preventing a touchdown. Tebow did have some very human moments, including a 4th quarter fumble, deep in the redzone, which ultimately led to the Tennessee touchdown that made the game as close as it was. If Tebow protects the ball and Florida scores again, none of this moral talk would have been necessary.

Aside from wins and losses, both real and imaginary, two things are fact. First, Tennessee's defense will be able to keep them in any game this year, but the quarterback situation needs immediate attention or 11 man fronts stacking the run all season long will be inevitable. And second, until Florida wins the national championship again, any game they do not  dominate will be considered a loss by the media. They will be looking for a chink in the armor because everyone wants to see the mighty fall. That's what makes being the best tough. It' not easy being on top of the mountain, even when it's Rocky Top.