Florida's Billy Napier reacts to Scott Stricklin's vote of confidence
It was just 48 hours ago when Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin announced that Billy Napier will be returning to Gainesville for a fourth season.
As expected, that resulted in plenty of mixed reviews from the fan base, media and those alike, as the head coach boasts just a 15-19 record at Florida. He is also just 1-10 against rivals Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Miami and Tennessee.
Then on Saturday afternoon, the Gators were blown out at Texas by the score of 49-17, dropping their record below .500 to 4-5. Until 7:03 left in third quarter, they were trailing 42-0. Freshman quarterback DJ Lagway was unable to play and continues to rehab a hamstring injury, resulting in the first-career start for walk-on Aidan Warner, but that one-sided loss is still unacceptable by Florida standards.
Napier, however, remains optimistic about the Gators’ program under his leadership. He echoed that following Saturday’s disappointment in Austin.
“First of all, I’m thankful for our players. I think you ultimately answer questions with players. We would not have made some of the progress we made over the last four, five, six weeks without a great group of players relative to what I’ve talked before, the character there at the core of that group, their leadership,” Napier said after Saturday’s loss to Texas.
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“Obviously, the staff has done a good job. Again, I do think when you look at the roster as a whole, we have a ton of young talent that I think will continue to develop. They’re learning, they’re going through this experience, and I think that will prove beneficial in the future.”
Scott Stricklin’s Letter to Gator Nation
UF athletics director Scott Stricklin announced Thursday via FloridaGators.com that Billy Napier will continue as Florida Gators’ football coach.
Here’s what he wrote to fans in a note titled, “A Letter from Scott Stricklin to Gator Nation.”
I wanted to let you know that Billy Napier will continue as head football coach of the Florida Gators.
As we’ve seen these past several weeks, the young men on this team represent what it means to be a Gator. Their resolve, effort and execution are evident in their performance and growth each week – building a foundation that promises greater success next season and beyond.
UF’s commitment to excellence and a championship-caliber program is unwavering. In these times of change across college athletics, we are dedicated to a disciplined, stable approach that is focused on long-term, sustained success for Gator athletes, recruits and fans.
I am confident that Billy will meet the challenges and opportunities ahead. We will work alongside him to support any changes needed to elevate Gator football. As college athletics evolves, UF is committed to embracing innovation and strategy, ensuring the Gators thrive in today’s competitive landscape.
Gator Nation has remained strong, showing up game after game to stand with our team. This loyalty creates an incredible environment that inspires our players to compete with heart and determination. Now, I call on all of Gator Nation to continue standing behind Billy and his dedicated team while we work together to build a championship program.
Go Gators!
