Is anyone still buying what Billy Napier is selling? It’s not looking good. Misery seems to be Napier’s constant companion. First, a brutal season, and now, it’s not just the team’s performance that’s raising eyebrows, but his baffling strategic moves that are jeopardizing Florida’s future. So, what’s the answer? Cut your losses and move on, right? But Napier’s not going anywhere. He’s clinging to those play-calling duties like a liferaft, despite everything that’s happened. It’s like fate is playing a cruel game of hide-and-seek with him, and his latest move has just fueled the fire for his critics.

Well, Napier’s decided he’s the best man for the job, taking full control of the Florida Gators offense. But here’s the cold, hard truth, as one analyst at Hightop Sports put it: “You can be pi–ed about it and complain, but here’s the thing. You know this and I know this—the guy starts losing games; you’re calling for his head. He knows that. I know that. Everybody knows that. The reality is, even if he did hire an OC, all that would do is fill your appetite for this offseason. The moment they lose one game, we’re back where we started.” Ouch. That’s the harsh reality hitting Napier hard. The silver lining?

Until the offense shows real signs of life, opinions aren’t going to change. Napier insisted it’s a team effort on offense, with the quarterbacks’ coach, an offensive analyst, and even the tight ends coach all contributing. It looks like they don’t need somebody that’s outside to come and change. But is that enough?

Bill Napier’s play-calling has not been very successful in terms of scoring points. Florida’s offense has struggled, averaging only 29.5 points per game under his guidance. In both 2022 and 2023, the Gators ranked 38th and 47th in total offense nationally, which is quite disappointing considering the program’s caliber. Since there is no true offensive coordinator, the unit is at risk of facing similar challenges this season. Surprisingly, there are no signs of any impending changes.

Still, Napier clings to a familiar refrain: the past is the blueprint. When talking about managing play-calling, he sticks to his script, saying: “It helps us from an identity standpoint as a team. I think you’re a part of the inner workings from an installation script standpoint, and then how game day goes.” 

Now, over the past three seasons, Florida has managed to score over 40 points against a Power Four opponent only four times, placing them ninth in the SEC. In contrast, Georgia has accomplished this feat 13 times during the same period, leaving the Gators far behind. Florida’s hit the 30-point mark 13 times against Power Four teams, which is a little better than before.

However, it still only puts them in a tie for seventh place in the SEC. Georgia, Texas, LSU, Alabama, Tennessee, and South Carolina have all outperformed Florida in this regard, while Texas A&M and Oklahoma have kept up with the Gators. So, is this really a wise decision?

Did Billy Napier make the right move by not getting an OC?

Well, Billy Napier’s continued role as offensive coordinator is a tough pill to swallow when you consider the numbers. Despite having a talented roster capable of producing a top-tier offense, Napier’s unit has failed to crack the top 50 during his time at Florida. Had he consistently fielded a top-20 offense, the situation would have been different. However, his offense has consistently underperformed, causing many to question his ability to lead the Gators back to prominence.

Moreover, the 2022 season perfectly exemplifies the problem. Despite having star quarterback Anthony Richardson and a talented receiving corps with Justin Shorter and Ricky Pearsall, along with standout running backs Montrell Johnson and Trevor Etienne, Florida’s offense still fell short of expectations. Even with all these weapons, Napier couldn’t get the offense firing on all cylinders. This is a red flag, especially considering the talent at his disposal.

Now, looking ahead to 2025, DJ Lagway is taking over as the starting quarterback, which should bring a fresh dynamic to the offense. However, last year’s moments of offensive success were not solely due to Napier’s strategic play calls. Instead, it was Lagway’s miraculous throws that bailed out the system. For Florida to truly elevate, they need more than just a few spectacular plays—they need a consistent offensive game plan that builds on Lagway’s skills and doesn’t rely on pure individual performance.

.