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19h ago

Florida Fires Billy Napier, Names Billy Gonzales Interim Coach

The move follows four uneven seasons defined by poor results against ranked teams, frequent miscues, mounting booster pressure.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 18: Head Coach Billy Napier of the Florida Gators looks on before the start of a game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on October 18, 2025 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)
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Mike Norvell of the Florida State Seminoles looks on during the first half of a game against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Doak S. Campbell Stadium on October 11, 2025 in Tallahassee, Florida.
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Overview

  • Athletic director Scott Stricklin dismissed Napier on Sunday, one day after a 23-21 home win over Mississippi State that featured boos and “Fire Billy” chants.
  • Napier leaves with a 22-23 overall record and 12-16 mark in SEC play, including 5-17 against ranked opponents and just three wins versus primary rivals.
  • Receivers coach Billy Gonzales is expected to guide the final five games after the bye, with Florida’s next outing set against Georgia in Jacksonville.
  • Florida owes roughly $20–21 million in buyout payments, with about half due within 30 days under contract terms reported by multiple outlets.
  • Stricklin called the program “results-driven” and announced a confidential search, as media link high-profile candidates such as Lane Kiffin and James Franklin.