The Billy Napier era in Gainesville has officially ended. The University of Florida fired the head football coach on Sunday, according to multiple reports, just one day after the Gators secured a narrow 23-21 victory over Mississippi State.
The win, a much-needed boost following a tough mid-season stretch, was ultimately insufficient to salvage Napier’s tenure. The decision by Athletic Director Scott Stricklin comes despite a recent marquee win over the Texas Longhorns and quarterback Arch Manning earlier in the season.
Florida’s on-field struggles, even in victory, seemed to seal Napier’s fate. In the win against Mississippi State, the Gators committed two costly turnovers and racked up seven penalties for 60 yards, a performance that reportedly failed to instill confidence in the administration. Adding to the dismal atmosphere, fans were heard booing Napier as he sprinted off the field following the game. One fan was even pictured wearing a “Fire Billy Napier” bag over their head during the contest.
Napier finishes his four seasons with a 22-23 overall record, including a disappointing 12-16 mark against SEC opponents. His record against ranked opponents was particularly concerning, going 5-17 overall and 0-14 away from home. Despite growing public pressure, Napier had declined to relinquish his play-calling duties.
Hired in 2022 to succeed the departed Dan Mullen, Napier arrived with high hopes after a successful stint reviving the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns program, where he led the team to three seasons of at least 10 wins, including a 12-1 record in 2021.
However, that success failed to translate to the SEC stage. He went 6-7 in his inaugural season and never achieved more than eight wins in a single year with the Gators.
The 2025 season had been a microcosm of his time: it started with a blowout win over Long Island, but quickly soured with a two-point loss to South Florida and significant defeats against powerhouses like LSU and Miami. While a win over Texas provided a fleeting moment of relief, a subsequent loss to Texas A&M and the lackluster performance against Mississippi State led to the final decision.
Receivers coach Billy Gonzales is expected to be named the interim head coach as the university begins its search for its next leader.
READ: USF Has An “Opportunity” In The Swamp; Good Friends Jeff Scott, Billy Napier On Opposite Sidelines
READ: Center Of Attention: Cole Best’s Leadership Speaks Volumes At USF
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