Billy Napier will be on the sideline Saturday when the 4-4 Florida Gators look to upset the No. 5 Texas Longhorns.
Florida State athletic director Scott Stricklin confirmed the university's decision to retain Napier as the Gators' head football coach.
In Napier's third season as head coach, the Gators continued to post disappointing results, and Napier's future was in doubt.
However, Stricklin cited the need for a “disciplined and steady approach” and urged Gators fans to “continue to support Billy and his dedicated team as we work together to build a championship program.” He urged them to do so.
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Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier during the first half of a game against the Texas A&M Aggies at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on September 14, 2024 in Gainesville, Florida. (James Gilbert/Getty Images)
The pressure Napier faces surfaced early this season, in part due to Miami's blowout win over Florida in August. The Gators bounced back against Stanford in Week 2, but Florida's 33-20 loss to Texas A&M put them under scrutiny again.
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Stricklin stressed the importance of being patient with Napier during his tenure and giving the coach enough time to turn the program around. There have been some bright spots for Florida this season.
“As we have seen in recent weeks, the young players on this team embody what it means to be a Gator,” Stricklin wrote in a statement shared on social media. “Their determination, hard work and execution are evident in their weekly performance and growth, building a foundation that promises even more success next season and beyond.”
Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier before a game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Everbank Stadium on November 2, 2024 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Melina Myers/Imag Images)
After losing to Texas A&M, the Gators defeated Mississippi State and UCF in back-to-back games. Last Saturday, Florida was even with Georgia but couldn't beat the Bulldogs in the annual rivalry game in Jacksonville.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium before the game between the Florida Gators and Texas A&M Aggies on September 14, 2024 in Gainesville, Florida. (James Gilbert/Getty Images)
The decision regarding Mr. Napier's position likely included financial considerations. If the University of Florida reverses course, it will likely be held responsible for Napier University's estimated $26 million acquisition. Last year, Texas A&M was on the lookout for Jimbo Fisher's record $76 million buyout.
ESPN reported that a significant amount of Florida State's name, image and likeness (NIL) money is being invested in first-year and second-year players. Quarterback DJ Lagway is also believed to support Napier as a coach, according to the paper.
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Three of Florida's four remaining opponents are in the top 25 of the College Football Playoff rankings.
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