Florida Fires Coach Billy Napier After Four Seasons with 22-23 Record

Billy Napier has been fired as head coach of the Florida Gators after a disappointing 3-4 start to the season, including a 22-23 overall record during his four-year tenure and a notably poor 5-17 record against ranked opponents. The decision came shortly after a narrow 23-21 win over Mississippi State, a game marked by questionable calls and offensive struggles, which led to boos from the home crowd despite the victory. Athletic director Scott Stricklin made the call to dismiss Napier, with receivers coach Billy Gonzales stepping in as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Napier's departure leaves Florida with a highly ranked 2026 recruiting class in flux, as recruits and commitments may reconsider their positions following the coaching change. Fans and analysts argue that Florida's next head coach must bring a level of swagger and confidence that Napier lacked, with names like Eli Drinkwitz and Lane Kiffin being suggested due to their proven leadership and success. While some Gators supporters had hoped Napier would turn things around, his inability to deliver consistent results and offensive leadership ultimately cost him the job.