Billy Napier will be on the sidelines Saturday when the 4-4 Florida Gators look to upset the fifth-ranked Texas Longhorns.
Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin confirmed the university's decision to retain Napier as the Gators' football coach.
Napier's future was in doubt as the Gators continued to suffer disappointing results in the coach's third season.
But Stricklin spoke of the need for a “disciplined, steady approach” and urged Gators fans to “continue to stand behind Billy and his dedicated team as we work together to build a winning program.”
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Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier during the first half of the game against the Texas A&M Aggies at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Sept. 14, 2024, in Gainesville, Fla. (James Gilbert/Getty Images)
The pressure Napier faced earlier this season, thanks to Miami's win over Florida in August. The Gators bounced back against Stanford in Week 2, but the spotlight returned when Florida lost 33-20 to Texas A&M.
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Stricklin took a patient approach to Napier's tenure, stressing the importance of giving the coach enough time to change the system. There have been bright spots for Florida this season.
“As we've seen over the past few weeks, the young men on this team represent what it means to be a Gator,” Stricklin wrote in an announcement shared on social media. “Their determination, effort and performance is reflected in their performance and growth each week – building a foundation that promises great success next season and beyond.”
Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier before the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla., Nov. 2, 2024. (Photos by Melina Myers/Imagn)
After dropping a game against Texas A&M, the Gators defeated Mississippi State and UCF in back-to-back games. While Florida hung with Georgia last Saturday, it couldn't knock the Bulldogs out of the annual rivalry game in Jacksonville.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium before the game between the Florida Gators and Texas A&M Aggies Sept. 14, 2024, in Gainesville, Fla. (James Gilbert/Getty Images)
Financial considerations may have played a role in the decision regarding Napier's career status. If Florida cancels the course, the university could be responsible for Napier's approximately $26 million purchase. Last year, Texas A&M was on the verge of buying Jimbo Fisher for a record $76 million.
ESPN reported a significant amount of Florida's name, image and likeness (NIL) money invested in freshmen and sophomores. Quarterback DJ Lagway is believed to like Napier as his coach, according to the report.
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Three of Florida's remaining four opponents are ranked in the top 25 in the College Football Playoff rankings.
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