Billy Napier comments on future of Florida-Georgia rivalry

The Florida–Georgia rivalry may be changing up its tradition. Currently, the two SEC East foes meet on an annual basis in Jacksonville, FL. Where Gator and Bulldog fans alike meet in temperate North Florida for a fall showdown. However, with a pair of Big 12 powers about to join and SEC scheduling up in the air, the rivalry may be in flux, or at least, may return to home-and-home matchups rather than the yearly bash in Jax.

The two teams released a joint statement on the matter recently, saying that when new discussions take place regarding scheduling, changes may be made in the UF-UGA rivalry.

“When those discussions take place, we will consider a multitude of factors, including tradition, finances, future SEC scheduling models with the addition of Texas and Oklahoma, and what is best for both schools’ football programs overall.”

So, ahead of the game this weekend, first-year Florida head coach Billy Napier was asked to speak on the future of the series. He was pretty strong on the side of moving the game back to the two campuses. Because that’s where the better environments are, plus, it’s a massive recruiting opportunity to host Georgia every two years.

Here was everything he had to say on the matter.

“You know, the big thing here is that, I think maybe for the first time, this year the home team gets tickets. I think we had come to an agreement there. There’s precedent for that. Maybe this game is the one that provides precedent for…neutral site, both teams get tickets. I think that’s the case.

“But there’s no question that game day, in particular, with these types of games, create recruiting opportunities, right. This environment, this experience for a player can have significant impact on a player’s decision. Every other year, he’s missing out on what he knows will be a fantastic venue and game day experience. You know, it being right down the road, it’s really good for both teams to suddenly agree. You know, there’s some advantages and disadvantages. But there’s a lot of tradition there.”

So the game is a massive chance for the Gators to showcase their program at its best, brightest and loudest. The same goes for Georgia during years where UF is particularly strong. Billy Napier would love to see this game back in Gainesville and