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WATCH: Florida AD Scott Stricklin presents emotional Billy Napier with game ball after upset win

Barkley-Truaxby:Barkley Truax•09/04/22•

BarkleyTruax

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(UAA Photo)

The Billy Napier era is off and running in Gainesville following Florida‘s 29-26 upset victory over the No. 7 Utah Utes in the Swamp Saturday night. Amid the locker room celebration, Gators athletic director Scott Stricklin awarded Napier the game ball for his first win as Florida headman.

“We only get to do this one time – game ball, which [ball] do you want? The last touchdown or the first touchdown?” Stricklin asked Napier after the game.

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“Both of them,” a Florida player chimed in amid collective Gators laughter. Napier would go on to take both game balls from Stricklin.

Florid took down the Utes thanks to a go-ahead touchdown in the final two minutes by star quarterback Anthony Richardson, which was followed by linebacker Amari Burney making an incredible leaping interception to seal the upset victory for the Gators with 17 seconds left. In turn, giving Napier the first win of his Florida career.

“Billy, thanks for coming in and leading this program, leading these young mean and [it’s] the first of many,” Stricklin said.

Billy Napier reacts to upset victory against Utah, expresses gratitude for Florida opportunity

The Billy Napier era at Florida got off to a successful start Saturday, as the Gators upset No. 7 Utah 29-26 in their season opener. In a sideline interview with ESPN postgame, Napier tried to put into words what this victory means for the start of his tenure in Gainesville.

“I’m so thankful for their work and so thankful for their trust,” the coach said. “That’s a strong word, but that’s what this game requires. Getting a leadership opportunity like this, you quickly realize how important it is to surround yourself with great people. That’s what we’ve got here. We’ve got a great administration, a great staff and an unbelievable group of players that has really worked hard and trusted us. I’m thankful for that.”