SEC Network analyst Paul Finebaum isn’t buying the Florida Gators’ momentum heading into the 2025 season, despite their strong finish to 2024. During a recent appearance on Andy & Ari On3, Finebaum made waves with a bold prediction about the Gators’ challenging early-season schedule.
The focus of concern is a brutal four-game stretch from September 13 to October 11, where Florida faces LSU, Miami, Texas, and Texas A&M in succession. When discussing this gauntlet of games and head coach Billy Napier, Finebaum didn’t mince words, stating bluntly, “Not even a big statement to say, he should lose all four.”
The prediction carries extra weight given Florida’s trajectory under Billy Napier. While the Gators finished 2024 with an improved 8-5 record and an impressive four-game winning streak, including wins over ranked LSU and Ole Miss teams, the program’s expectations remain high.
Despite having promising pieces in place, including returning quarterback DJ Lagway and receiver Eugene Wilson III, Finebaum’s skepticism stems from the sheer difficulty of the schedule. The analyst previously labeled it as the SEC’s most challenging slate.
The pressure on Napier and the Gators is significant heading into 2025. While a successful 2024 campaign has earned some goodwill, failing to compete for a College Football Playoff spot could raise questions about the program’s direction. However, Napier’s recent success, including those signature wins to close out 2024, suggests the Gators might be better positioned than Finebaum believes.
As Florida prepares for what could be a defining season, the team’s performance during this crucial four-game stretch could either validate Finebaum’s concerns or prove that the Gators are ready to reclaim their place among the SEC’s elite.
Support Gators Breakdown and get your Florida Gators merch at Fanatics
0 Comments