Al Horford and Joakim Noah had small spots of blood speckled across their shirts and shorts.

For Florida's big men, the red dots were a reminder of how tough it can be to try to repeat as champions.

"We're going to do whatever it takes," Horford said.

They might have to, because if the top-seeded Gators are going to win consecutive NCAA titles, it seems they're going to do it the hard way.

Horford had 16 points, seven rebounds and a key block in the final minute to help the top-seeded Gators overcome another slow start and hold off undersized Butler 65-57 Friday night.