Billy Napier finds himself back in a familiar scenario as the third week of the college football season kicks off.
A year ago, after the Gators competed against Georgia for the fourth time that season, athletic director Scott Strickland confidently expressed his support for Florida State coach Napier, despite a 4-4 record. The Gators had faced off against Texas too but ended the season on a high note with four consecutive wins. This year, quarterback DJ Lagway has generated a lot of excitement, and many in Gainesville are feeling hopeful about the season ahead.
Then, last Saturday, the unexpected happened. The Gators, who were ranked, fell at home to South Florida, and suddenly, the heat was on Napier.
As he enters his third game of the fourth season, Napier’s overall record stands at 20-20. That’s not what fans had in mind when Florida awarded him a seven-year, $51.8 million contract back in 2021.
But now, he faces a critical opportunity to turn things around. Next up is a road game against LSU. I wonder, can Napier’s team shift the narrative if they manage to secure a win in Death Valley on Saturday?
There might be more chances to prove themselves. Following LSU, the Gators will play Miami and then host Texas, a team that hasn’t lived up to expectations after starting as a preseason favorite. Then, there’s a tough away game against Texas A&M.
Interestingly, there’s a bye week nestled between the Miami and Texas games. If Florida rallies against the Tigers and Hurricanes, they could lessen their losses and hold off making drastic coaching decisions. But with that comes significant financial implications.
As it stands, Napier’s buyout is substantial—around $19.38 million remains from this season. About $9.7 million of that is due within 30 days if he were to be let go.
If Florida wanted to move on from Napier, they could likely find the funds, but it’s a big question. Do they want to invest the money and embark on yet another head coaching search since the end of the Meyer era? Based on recent fan reactions online, it seems many are ready for a change.
Ultimately, that choice rests with Strickland. However, after a series of disappointing losses, protecting Napier is becoming increasingly difficult. When a team loses to an in-state rival with a five-year tenure on the line, accountability is hard to sidestep.
The showdown against LSU could very well be Napier’s last chance, set to air at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC. Other key matchups include:
Best Games of the Week: No. 6 Georgia vs. No. 15 Tennessee
Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC
This clash features two SEC contenders that promise to deliver a good gauge of performance. The Volunteers had a solid showing against Syracuse, while Georgia’s early games didn’t give a clear view of their strength. Both teams are 2-0, but questions remain.
Games Impacting the College Football Playoffs: No. 18 Miami at USF
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET – CW
This game could break the CW’s viewership records. After impressive starts, USF and Miami are both vying for strong positioning in the early playoff race, and a victory here could be pivotal for either team.
This Week’s Unique Weekday Game: Colorado at Houston
Friday, 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPN
Coach Deion Sanders has been scrutinized for his quarterback decisions, yet it seems Ryan Staub has emerged as a promising player. His performance against Delaware was impressive, albeit against a less competitive opponent. How will he fare against Houston, who have started strong defensively this season? Only time will tell.
FCS Matchup of the Week: UTSA vs. Incarnate Word
Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET – ESPN+
Despite being winless, UTSA features a standout player in Robert Henry, who leads the nation in rushing. This game might be a chance for the Roadrunners to secure their first win, although Incarnate Word has produced some talented quarterbacks lately.
Guilty Pleasure Game of the Week: West Virginia vs. Pitt
Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET – ESPN
This backyard brawl is a classic rivalry. While it’s hard to say how strong both teams are this season, the hatred between them runs deep, making this game one to watch.
For more insights on this rivalry, check out additional coverage.
- Clemson vs. No. 12 Georgia Tech: Saturday, 12 p.m. – ESPN
- Washington State at North Texas: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. – ESPNU
- No. 16 Texas A&M at No. 8 Notre Dame: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. – NBC/Peacock
- Vanderbilt at No. 11 South Carolina: Saturday, 7:45 p.m. – SEC Network
