Billy Napier will continue to coach Florida, according to athletic director Scott Stricklin, who put to rest rampant speculation about the embattled coach's future with the Gators.
In a letter Thursday, Stricklin stressed the need for a «disciplined, stable approach» and asked Florida fans to «continue standing behind Billy and his dedicated team while we work together to build a championship program.»
Napier, in his third season at Florida, is 15-18 with the Gators. After a 41-17 season-opening loss to Miami, he faced increased scrutiny over his job performance — scrutiny that mounted after a 33-20 loss to Texas A&M two weeks later.
Stricklin, however, has been unwavering in his support of Napier, who has repeatedly said he needs time to get the Gator program headed in the right direction.
Back-to-back wins over Mississippi State and UCF helped quell fan discontent, but performances in close losses to No. 7 Tennessee and No. 3 Georgia — Florida held leads in both games — showed progress.
«As we've seen these past several weeks, the young men on this team represent what it means to be a Gator,» Stricklin wrote. «Their resolve, effort and execution are evident in their performance and growth each week — building a foundation that promises greater success next season and beyond.»
Stricklin added that he is «confident that Billy will meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.»
The Gators are 4-4 overall this season, including 2-3 in SEC play. They visit No. 5 Texas on Saturday before closing their regular season home for LSU, home for Ole Miss and at rival Florida State.
Much of the progress Stricklin cites has to do with the way Florida's freshmen and sophomores have played of late.
After veteran quarterback Graham Mertz
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