Gregory Reed / Shutterstock.com
Florida head coach Billy Napier is doubling down on his vision for the Gators’ offense — he’ll be calling plays himself next season instead of hiring a traditional offensive coordinator. The decision comes after Florida’s impressive late-season surge that culminated in a Gasparilla Bowl victory over Tulane.
Napier shared his reasoning during an appearance on Gators Breakdown, explaining this isn’t his first time handling play-calling duties. The move aligns with the emergence of freshman quarterback sensation DJ Lagway, who stepped in for an injured Graham Mertz and showed remarkable potential.
The Gators faced one of the nation’s toughest schedules last season, yet still managed to secure a bowl berth — something few expected from Napier’s squad.
Lagway’s development will be crucial for Florida’s success in 2024. With the young quarterback showing flashes of brilliance, having one consistent voice directing the offense could prove beneficial for his growth.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for Napier. Florida has never reached the College Football Playoff, and his in-game management has faced criticism in the past. While he’s proven his ability to recruit and develop talent, taking on play-calling responsibilities adds another layer of pressure.
Some industry observers question whether one person can effectively handle both head coaching and play-calling duties in today’s expanded playoff era. Modern championship programs typically feature either defensive-minded head coaches or CEO-type leaders who delegate offensive responsibilities.
The Gators are projected to win around eight games next season — potentially enough to make them dark horse playoff contenders. They might even have enough firepower to challenge the Georgia Bulldogs in their annual rivalry matchup.
Napier’s decision to bet on himself mirrors his approach from last season when he silenced many critics. Whether this latest gamble pays off won’t be clear until the team takes the field this fall.
