Shemar James explains why Florida plays so hard for Billy Napier: 'We love Coach Napier'

After the first three games of the 2024 season, it looked like Billy Napier’s time at Florida was running out. But some strong showings against a tough schedule – including an upset win over LSU – helped keep Napier in Gainesville beyond this year, and Shemar James explained why the Gators play so hard for their coach.

UF had an up-and-down first two years under Napier after he replaced Dan Mullen. The Gators went 6-7 in 2022 and 5-7 in 2023, and he entered 2024 on the hot seat. Florida also had the toughest schedule in the country, which added to the pressure.

Home blowout losses to Miami and Texas A&M could’ve spelled the end for Napier’s run. But close games against Tennessee and Georgia – prior to DJ Lagway’s injury – and wins over Kentucky and LSU helped him earn another year. It became clear the Gators play hard for their coach, and James said it’s all about buying in to Napier’s process.

“I'd be lying if we said we weren't seeing the tweets and the blogs and all the rumors.”

Florida LB @Shemarjames06 tells @ChrisDoering & @ESPNDari why the team is playing so hard for @coach_bnapier.@GatorsFB | #GoGators pic.twitter.com/e8If5f1aEC

— College Sports on SiriusXM (@SXMCollege) November 21, 2024

“We’ve kind of seen it in ourselves first, knowing that we can compete with some of the best in the country,” James said on SiriusXM College. “We love Coach Napier. We love the job that he’s doing here, and we ultimately believe in him. I’d be lying if I said we weren’t seeing the tweets and the blogs and all the rumors.

“I would say, just wanting Coach [Napier] to be here and just playing hard for a coach that you can stand behind. I would say that’s why we play so hard and just wanting to keep Coach Napier.”

James was part of Billy Napier’s first recruiting class after arriving at Florida from Louisiana. The Gators have a slew of young players on the roster, as well, as they build up in Year 3 of his tenure. The decision to keep Napier could also have an impact on the recruiting trial as UF sits at No. 25 in the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Ranking, but is in pursuit of some flips ahead of National Signing Day.

On the field, Florida will look to finish the year strong after the upset win over LSU at The Swamp. Ole Miss awaits this week in Gainesville for Senior Day before next week’s season finale at struggling in-state rival Florida State.