Billy Napier makes statement after accepting Florida job

Billy Napier has been announced as the next head coach of the Florida Gators. After the news was revealed, Napier released a statement of gratitude to the University of Louisiana.

“I’m extremely grateful to everyone associated with the University of Louisiana,” wrote Napier. “We set out to build a program that would make this University, Acadiana and Louisiana proud. There are so many people and players who have been a part of our journey over the last four years, and the success we achieved is a direct reflection or them. Their belief, commitment, and hard work made this possible.

“I am especially thankful for Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Bryan Maggard and President E. Joseph Savoie for believing in me and giving me every resource to build this program. I am forever indebted to all of you.

“This is a special place, and I’m so fortunate to have been the Head Football Coach at Louisiana — my time here truly made me better in every way. Thank you for your trust, your support and embracing the culture. We look forward to seeing you at Cajun Field this Saturday!”

Billy Napier was essential to the success of the University of Louisiana. While he’s moving onto bigger things at Florida, he’ll always be remembered for what he did for the Ragin’ Cajuns.

Billy Napier boasts impressive resume

Prior to arriving in Lafayette, Napier spent one season as the offensive coordinator at Arizona State in 2017. He helped direct the Sun Devils to a 7-6 record and appearance in the Sun Bowl against NC State.

Since taking over Louisiana in 2018, he has compiled a 39-12 record. He won the Sun Belt Coach of the Year award in just his second season at the helm.

At 10-1 (7-0 in league play), the Ragin’ Cajuns have already clinched their spot in the Sun Belt Conference Championship Game against Appalachian State. They rank 42nd in the country and fifth in the Sun Belt in total defense, a major area of emphasis for Florida in its coaching search.

After the Gators took Alabama to the wire in last year’s SEC title game, the Dan Mullen era took a sharp turn for the worse. Florida began the year at 3-1, with its lone loss coming by two points against the Crimson Tide. After being ranked inside the top 10, the Gators have gone 2-5, with the only victories coming against Vanderbilt and Samford.

The defense has struggled immensely, giving up an average of 39.8 points over its past five outings. Florida responded by firing defensive coordinator Todd Grantham as well as offensive line coach John Hevesy prior to the Samford game. They still gave up 52 points in that one, the most ever from an FCS school against an SEC opponent.

The Gators will now prepare for the early signing period, set to begin on Dec. 15, with their new coach Billy Napier.