Let’s talk about why Gator Nation was so hyped for Cormani McClain’s return. The guy didn’t just step in for injured teammates; he showed up big time against the Kentucky Wildcats. McClain snagged his first interception of the season and even sent Wildcats QB Cutter Boley packing with a pick-six. And that was just the opening act! McClain is thriving as a Florida Gator, and the passion he’s showing is electric.

After their big win over FSU in their final regular-season game, McClain was seen celebrating with another Gators defensive back. His pride and love for the team were on full display. Meanwhile, Trikweze Bridges, another Gators DB, posted a savage photo of himself flexing over an FSU player on the ground, captioned: “𝐈𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐘𝐨𝐮, 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐌𝐲 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐥 𝐁𝐫𝐮 𝐓𝐨 𝐌𝐞 🥷.” It was all confidence and swagger, the kind of vibe that screams, “I’m the best.”

McClain reposted it on his Instagram story with the caption, “GET UPPPPPPPPPPPPPP,” clearly in sync with the energy. This moment not only showed some Gator brotherhood but also highlighted McClain’s resilience. Despite all the criticism from coaches and CFB insiders, he never lost faith in himself—and it’s paying off.

The Instagram story did, however, also feature McClain’s excitement of a rivalry win. Gators gave it his all during the 31-11 victory over FSU. Thanks to 5 Florida State fumble recoveries, two touchdowns from DJ Lagway, and one from Montrell Johnson Jr. After defeating FSU (2-10) for the first time since 2021, Florida (7-5) secured a winning season and pushed the FSU to their very first season with ten losses in fifty years.

However, the journey wasn’t always easy. McClain faced a ton of heat at one point, with people even calling him non-SEC material. Before the game, in his latest YouTube video, he addressed the noise in his own way. Rocking khaki pants, a beige t-shirt, and a #7 chain, he showed off his fit, jokingly calling it “Target fit.” Fans loved it, embracing his comeback both on and off the field.

After the game, his mom shared words of encouragement: “You’re gonna have some good days and bad days … Continue to believe in yourself, the team, and your coaches. Better days will come.”

The question now is: have things truly turned around for McClain? Based on his recent performance, the answer looks like a yes.

Cormani McClain’s bounce back

After graduating from Lakeland Senior High, he joined the Buffs under Deion Sanders. And thereafter, Cormani McClain’s transfer from Colorado was unexpected. His departure came amid allegations of misconduct and a hostile team environment. However, his move to the Gators was particularly surprising considering his previous commitment to Miami over the Florida Gators.

His walk-on status was noteworthy since he joined the Gators’ program when they were almost at their scholarship cap. During his first few months with the Gators, McClain faced many challenges. Fans and commentators were skeptical about his ability to adjust to the SEC level; some called him “too small.” Although he had trouble getting enough playing time early in the season, McClain was able to secure a spot on the squad despite these uncertainties. His disciplinary problems became the subject of gossip, which raised questions about how he would proceed with the team.

Billy Napier openly responded to these rumors by saying that a lot of the conjecture about McClain was blown out of proportion. He underlined that since joining the team, McClain had improved and was adjusting well. According to Napier, McClain must keep up his good work to secure his spot on the squad. Now, after his performance against the Wildcats, Napier’s faith in McClain has paid off. Therefore, with all the issues resolved, Billy Napier’s star CB is on the team and proving his abilities. After this 2024 season, we’ll see what happens.