The world feels like it is ending for many Georgia fans after the Bulldogs’ 13-12 road win over the Kentucky Wildcats. However, it could be worse, much worse for Georgia fans. Just look at how life is for fans of the Florida Gators.
Florida appear to be reaching a breaking point. Head coach Billy Napier and the Gators have struggled against Power Four opponents for years. Napier’s 7-15 record against Power Four teams is awful. After the Gators’ loss to Texas A&M, it appears Florida may be ready to move on from Napier.
“A group of Florida boosters have pulled together money to cover the expense of firing coach Billy Napier, two people with direct knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports,” said Matt Hayes.
Just how much money would it cost Florida to fire Napier? Napier would be owed around $26 million in buyout money, which is a historic amount, but is nothing compared to the $75 million that Texas A&M, which beat Florida 33-20, shelled out to fire Jimbo Fisher.
“The two spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the process, which will begin when interim Florida president Kent Fuchs makes an official decision. The only variable is when,” Hayes said.
Florida could have a way out of the buyout money. It involves Georgia quarterback Jaden Rashada, who has ongoing litigation with the Napier and Florida.
“If Florida fires Napier, he will be owed approximately $26 million in buyout money,” said Hayes. “But that number could be mitigated because Florida is currently being investigated by the NCAA for its recruitment – and Napier’s role in the recruitment – of former high school recruit Jaden Rashada.”
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Could the Rashada situation prolong the Napier era as Florida looks to find resolution with that case? Or will the Gators, who are probably out of patience, move on from Napier?