They finished their regular season second in the East Division of the SEC, behind Georgia.
Entering the game, the Gators were 1–2 against ranked FBS opponents, defeating Auburn while losing to LSU and Georgia.
Virginia entered the Orange bowl with an overall 9–4 record (6–2 in conference), having lost the ACC Championship Game to Clemson after finishing atop the ACC's Coastal Division.
The Cavaliers were also 1–2 against ranked FBS opponents, defeating Virginia Tech while losing to Notre Dame and Clemson.
at Hard Rock Stadium • Miami Gardens, Florida Pound sign (#) denotes national championship game.