Amid growing uncertainty surrounding Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier, speculation continues to swirl about potential changes at the top of the program.
Despite an ultra-shaky 2-2 start to the season, Napier remains at the helm, but many believe it’s only a matter of time before Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin decides to make a change.
Several high-profile coaches have been linked to the Florida job in recent weeks, with names like Penn State’s James Franklin, Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz, and Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin being floated by national reporters.
Kiffin, in particular, has seen renewed buzz around his potential move to Florida following Ole Miss’ stunning loss to Kentucky in Week 5.
Matt Hayes of USA Today added fuel to the fire in a recent report, stating that the “Kiffin-Florida rumblings” have intensified following the shocking loss.
“Deny it all you want, everyone. This shotgun marriage now has momentum,” Hayes reported.
He went further, emphasizing the connection between Kiffin and Florida: “If ever a coach and a program were destined for each other, this is it.”
He doubled down by adding, “Deny it all you want, the fuse has been lit on this looming shotgun marriage. It’s only a matter of timing.”
While no official moves have been made and nothing is confirmed, the rumor mill is expected to keep churning for the next several weeks.
One key complication is the timing.
If Ole Miss remains in contention for a College Football Playoff spot, it may prove difficult for Florida to wait for Kiffin to become available.
As crushing as the loss to Kentucky was, Ole Miss remains very much alive for a spot in the expanded playoff field.
The Rebels face South Carolina, LSU, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Georgia before a bye in Week 12.
Notably, they meet the Gators in Gainesville on November 23, a game sure to heighten speculation given the ongoing rumors about Kiffin’s future.
While Kiffin has stated that he’s happier than ever in Oxford, the speculation of a potential move to Florida won’t be going away anytime soon.
What are your thoughts on the situation? … Will the Gators be able to lure Kiffin to Gainesville???
