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‘Gator Bowl’ the scene of two ‘lasts’ in Vince Dooley’s football life

The structure in Jacksonville once known as the Gator Bowl has always been a pretty happy place for Vince Dooley.

Georgia Bulldogs guard Royce Smith, left, holds the Gator Bowl Trophy with coach Vince Dooley after they defeated North Carolina, 7-3, in Jacksonville, Fla. Dec. 31, 1971.

While many remember Georgia’s breathtaking 26-21 victory over Florida en route to the 1980 national championship as a signature event, the stadium — which has undergone several renovations and name changes since opening in 1927 — was the scene of two very important “lasts” in Dooley’s storied career.