The University of Florida Gators victory Saturday night means Congressman Adam Putnam will be savoring some fine Louisiana root beer as the payoff of a friendly wager he made with Congressman Steve Scalise, who represents Louisiana’s First Congressional District.

Putnam, a graduate of the University of Florida, and Scalise a Louisiana State University graduate, each wagered a product of their respective districts on the outcome of the big game between their alma maters, the top-ranked Gators and the fourth-ranked Tigers. Putnam bet Florida’s Natural Orange Juice against root beer produced by the Abita Brewing Company of Louisiana.

“It’s a proud day and a sweet victory for Gator Nation,” said Putnam. “And I’m sure the Abita root beer will make it all the sweeter. I congratulate Tim Tebow, Brandon Spikes and the rest of the Gators on a hard-fought win over a determined LSU team.  What a game.”

Since 2001, Putnam has represented Florida’s 12^th Congressional District, which includes most of Polk County and portions of Hillsborough and Osceola counties.