Scott Stricklin on Florida program after Billy Napier firing: 'We've never been more invested'

On Sunday, Florida fired head coach Billy Napier. While the move is undoubtedly a speed bump for Florida, athletic director Scott Stricklin emphasized the decision is a symbol of the school’s care for the football program.

“The University of Florida has, for a long time, been invested in being good in football. I don’t think we’ve ever been as invested as we are right now,” Napier said. “There’s never been a time as many financial resources and as much commitment has gone into making Gator football as good as it can be.

“Whether it’s elite facilities like the one we’re standing in here now… the NIL infrastructure, all the other comprehensive things we do with our to help our athletes. Whether it’s the Hawkins Center at Farrior Hall, from an academic standpoint; nutrition with the college and dining center. There’s just so many things that are in place for this program to be successful at the highest level. We’re here to win championships, and I think we have a really unique opportunity for somebody to walk into.”

Florida is one of the most storied programs in college football. The Gators boast three national championships and eight SEC titles.

With former coaches such as Steve Spurrier and Urban Meyer, expectations are high for anybody who sits in the driver’s seat at Florida. Napier wasn’t able to meet those lofty expectations, finishing his time at UF with a 22-23 overall record and 12-16 mark in conference play.

Now, Scott Stricklin is looking for a leader to return Florida to its former heights. He’s not willing to settle for anything less than excellence.

“Making this decision during the open date provides our team valuable time to regroup, refocus, and prepare for the challenges ahead,” Stricklin said. “The timing also allows us to conduct a thoughtful, thorough, and well-informed search for our next head coach. We remain fully committed to utilizing every resource available to identify the right leader to guide Gators Football into the future.

“The search will focus on the hiring of an elite football coach who will embody the standard we have at the University of Florida, and we will continue to provide all of the necessary resources for that coach, his staff and the players to be successful… “The standards and expectations for Gators football are to win championships — not simply to compete. We exist to win, and will not settle for less.”