Florida set an ominous tone for its 2024 season on Saturday.
With a deflating 41-17 home loss to Associated Press No. 19 Miami (1-0), the Gators laid the groundwork for what will likely be a long season in Gainesville.
Florida’s season may have peaked at the 2:26 mark of the first quarter. That’s when defensive back Shemar James intercepted Miami quarterback Cam Ward, who otherwise had a phenomenal afternoon.
Despite taking possession at the Hurricanes’ 33-yard line following the interception, Florida only mustered a field goal on the ensuing drive, cutting the deficit to 7-3. Miami scored 31 of the next 38 points to blow the game open midway through the third quarter, ultimately outgaining Florida 529-261.
If the Hurricanes — talented as they may be — did that to Florida chances are several other teams on its schedule could do the same. In November, the Gators face an SEC gauntlet, including games against No. 1 Georgia (1-0), No. 4 Texas (1-0), No. 6 Ole Miss and No. 13 LSU.
If No. 10 Florida State (0-1) can play up to its preseason potential, Florida’s regular-season finale would cap the most difficult month for any team this season. The Gators needed a win in their opener to instill confidence in their ability to succeed against (likely) tougher competition later this season.
If Florida had lost a close game to the Hurricanes, head coach Billy Napier might have found something positive in his team’s performance that could give it hope for the arduous road ahead.
Instead, the Gators lost in humiliating fashion.
It’s a terrible sign for Napier, who is on the hot seat after leading Florida to consecutive losing seasons. The Gators haven’t improved much (if at all) in the three years since he was hired in November 2021. It’s difficult to imagine the next three months being any different.
