Pretty sure that was the year Stoops became the defensive coordinator so it's a good bet their defense was good.
"As the defensive coordinator for Florida, Stoops ran what was described as a "press defense", or more commonly called the "Stun-n-Done Defense". No matter what anyone described it as, the defense quickly became nationally known for its hard hitting and aggressive style. In each of his three seasons the Gators have ranked among the nation's top 15 teams in total defense and top 20 in rush defense, including second in 1997 (70.7 rushing ypg) and fifth in 1998 (90.7 rushing ypg). His defensive units also led the SEC in quarterback sacks in 1996 (48) and 1997 (50). Florida had 39 sacks during the 1998 regular season and tied Arkansas for the league lead".
