  An analysis of the upper critical field in the gauge model is presented. It
is shown that a `strange metallic' normal state has implications for the
pairing transition even if the resulting superconducting state is essentially
conventional. The gauge model is considered as one example of an unconventional
normal state and the optimally doped and overdoped cases are examined. In the
optimally doped regime $B_{c2}$ rises linearly with decreasing temperature to
an enhanced value at $T=0$ relative to BCS. In the overdoped regime the gauge
model predicts Fermi-liquid behavior but there is a weakly temperature
dependent interaction. This can give rise to some upward curvature of the upper
critical field and an enhanced zero temperature value.
