Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier says he sees a path forward for the program, but Gators legend Emmitt Smith isn’t so sure. Napier recently asserted that he’s had no discussions about his future with the program and “100%” envisions himself coaching the Gators in 2025.
Smith, however, expressed doubt about Napier’s ability to right the ship. While Smith acknowledges that incoming quarterback DJ Lagway gives the Gators their best chance at offensive success, he’s concerned about the team’s daunting schedule.
“I’m not sure. I have mixed emotions because I think DJ Lagway gives us the best opportunity to be successful as an offensive unit because of his throwing ability and his ability to maneuver around in the pocket,” Smith stated. He added, “It’s so tough because our schedule is going to be so tough.”
Smith admitted he’s willing to give Napier the benefit of the doubt, but he doesn’t currently see a scenario where Napier survives the season. He called the Gators’ upcoming schedule “very tough to watch” and admitted he doesn’t “see it happening” when it comes to Napier coaching a fourth year.
At 1-2, Florida faces an uphill battle. While they have two potentially winnable games upcoming against Mississippi State and UCF, the Gators then face a gauntlet of five ranked opponents in their next six games. To survive the season, Napier will need to orchestrate some significant upsets, a prospect that appears increasingly unlikely as the season progresses.
