Billy Napier opens up on what motivates him after Florida's win vs. UCF

Billy Napier still has plenty of motivation after Florida’s win over UCF Saturday. The win pushed the Gators’ record to 3-2.

Right now, it quieted down narratives around Napier and his future at Florida, considering the expectations for the program. Whether that returns or not, remains to be seen.

However, Napier hasn’t been beaten down. He continues to push forward and coach for his staff and players.

“I think two things motivate me a lot,” Napier said. “You know, ultimately, my obligation, our obligation, as a staff and organization to the players. I want them to experience success with them, to have the gratification that comes with playing football at a high level. I want to teach values while we’re doing that. And then I would say, I’ve always felt strongly like they pay you to do a job. You know, you were brought here to do a job, and you want to do the job for the people that believed in you and gave you a chance.” 

In the 24-13 win, Florida built a 24-3 halftime lead, so the second certainly wasn’t pretty without any points. Still, a win is a win.

Billy Napier not backing down after latest win

Much needed for Florida and Napier anyway.

“And then once you arrive, you meet people, you continue to meet more and more people that care about this place, that had special experiences here, that want the place to have success and want to be in contention,” Napier said. “And I’ve met so many great people you know, that have great intentions, that are passionate about this place, and we want to do our job, and that was what we were brought here to do. 

“So both of those things motivate me, and I think ultimately allow me to keep perspective, and while we’re doing it, we’re going to try to do it the right way.”

The Gators are back in action this weekend on the road at Tennessee. A win over UCF doesn’t necessarily mean Napier and Florida are about to pull off a top 10 upset.

But again, that’s why they play the game and Tennessee looked lackluster against Arkansas this past weekend.

Perhaps the motivation, the win and a little bit of luck is just what the doctor ordered for Napier and Florida.