Modeling enthusiasm within the face of adversity tops the agenda for Florida head coach Billy Napier, who admits he is involved in regards to the mindset of youthful gamers throughout the Gators’ tough begin to the 2024 season.
Florida misplaced to Texas A&M by 13 factors final week in a recreation the place the Aggies rushed for 310 yards and led 20-0 at half regardless of taking part in a freshman quarterback. The Gators have a 6-11 report towards SEC opponents beneath Napier.
The “exterior noise” has grown to incorporate studies that Florida boosters have raised the funds to pay the $26 million buyout the college would owe Napier if he is fired.
Extra was anticipated of Florida in Napier’s third season which incorporates six residence losses. He stated criticism and requires changing him as coach “include the territory.”
Within the face of the firestorm, Napier transitioned this week into half coach, half counselor.
“A clever coach as soon as advised me you want the suitable mixture of humility and enthusiasm,” Napier stated Wednesday. “Our means to proceed with the identical enthusiasm impartial of the consequence. … I feel what you are describing is a part of the problem. If you battle a little bit bit, can you retain your head in the suitable place? Particularly younger folks. We’ve to maintain that very same enthusiasm, that perception, that hope. I feel that is one of many keys to turning issues round.”
Florida (1-2) visits Mississippi State on Saturday earlier than a bye week. With a win, Napier believes the Gators can regroup with a house recreation towards UCF and a go to to No. 6 Tennessee to begin October.
Quarterback Graham Mertz stated Napier took the blame for the group’s losses this season, however gamers do not need to play for anybody else.
“All people is aware of that we are able to all do our jobs higher,” Mertz stated. “We’re all on this factor collectively.”
–Subject Stage Media
