Swamp Things: A podcast about the Florida Gators: Recent Episodes
Swamp Things: Florida Gators Show
The latest on Florida Gators football, basketball and more featuring Orlando Sentinel sports writer Edgar Thompson.
New coach Jon Sumrall and Co. secured their five targets from the 2025 Gators, led by 1,000-yard rusher Jadan Baugh, and added more than a dozen newcomers from the transfer portal. Florida addressed several key areas, including a trio of offensive linemen, during a crazy and critical week. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss the comings and goings, including DJ Lagway's return to the Lone Star State, that will shape the 2026 roster.
- Gators keep top 5 (00:00)
- Key to turnaround (10:23)
- Portal needs: QB (11:49)
- Portal needs: Offense line (16:08)
- Portal: Respecting/enforcing rules (32:00)
- Treating players like professional athletes (38:20)
- DJ Lagway lands at Baylor (42:45)
- Programs with deeper pockets than SEC schools (45:36)
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- Where is football in SEC? (52:55)
- Men's basketball (57:51)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner (1:01:03)
The transfer portal opens on Friday as new coach Jon Sumrall and his staff continue to construct the 2026 Gators. Attrition is already underway, highlighted by quarterback DJ Lagway's departure. Many players reportedly intend to enter the portal, including receiver Tre Wilson. Others could follow, but continue to negotiate, led by tailback Jadan Baugh, receiver Dallas Wilson and edge rusher Jayden Woods. Meanwhile, rising stars, including linebacker Myles Graham and receiver Vernell Brown III, are back in the fold. The question then remains: Who's headed to Gainesville? It's a lot of moving parts, but during the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar try to piece it all together during the new age of college football.
- Cold reality of college football: NIL/portal (00:00)
- Player status: Goners (6:15)
- Player status: Still negotiating (13:08)
- Player status: Coming back (25:45)
- Announcing returners ripped (30:44)
- Finding new ways of thinking (36:30)
- Jon Sumrall's hires (38:44)
- Who are the targets? (47:22)
- College Football Playoff picks (55:35)
- Men's basketball (1:02:14)
- Women's basketball (1:08:46)
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway hits the transfer portal after a sophomore slump and slew of injuries left a new coaching staff wondering if the 20-year-old was worth the investment. Lagway's exit is among many. But reinforcements are on the way as free agency in college football begins, even with the portal not set to open until Jan. 2. Meanwhile, Sumrall continues to build his staff even as he prepares Tulane for Saturday's CFP matchup at Ole Miss. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss the Gators' comings and goings.
- Gators dropping like flies (00:00)
- Where does DJ go? (8:30)
- New Gator QB? (17:28)
- Who does UF want to keep? (22:47)
- Roster will be unrecognizable (30:53)
- Phill Trautwein and other hires (32:00)
- Need continuity for team (40:43)
- Heisman voters slammed (43:24)
- College game picks (50:44)
- Jeremy Foley''s Corner: Men's basketball (56:52)
New Florida football coach Jon Sumrall didn't waste any time making his two biggest staff hires, culminating with Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner. Sumrall made the moves while also coaching Tulane to the AAC title to earn a CFP bid and overseeing two recruiting classes. Sumrall's multi-tasking and expediency is a change of pace to Billy Napier's measured approach. The CFP selection committee's methods came under fire after it revealed a 12-team field without Notre Dame. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar praise Sumrall's alacrity and discuss the CFP's methodology, while also touching on a busy stretch in Florida's other sports.
- Home-run hires: White, Chapman (00:00)
- Miami, Notre Dame, Alabama (21:27)
- College playoff matchups (44:44)
- Lane train talk continues (55:03)
- Jon Sumrall endorsement (57:30)
- Men's basketball (1:02:00)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner: Volleyball, soccer (1:07:14)
UF introduced Jon Sumrall Monday to conclude a robust six-week search that targeted Ole Miss' Lane Kiffin before landing on Tulane's up-and-coming coach. With Steve Spurrier, Urban Meyer and Danny Wuerffel in attendance, Sumrall vowed to deliver wins, exciting offenses, hard-nosed defenses and impactful special teams. Along the way, the 43-year-old mixed passion, humor and plenty of energy to surely convince some skeptics with their hearts set on Kiffin to give Sumrall a chance. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar are clearly sold on Sumrall's potential and presentation, while they dug into the details of UF AD Scott Stricklin's quest to make the most important hire of his career.
- Jon Sumrall to UF (00:00)
- Lane Kiffin ending (5:50)
- Kiffin/Sumrall timeline (10:27)
- Offensive coach position, DJ Lagway's future (20:30)
- Sumrall: Not Billy Napier 2.0 (28:47)
- Defensive coach position (34:45)
- Scott Stricklin actions (38:02)
- New GM Dave Caldwell (45:51)
- Urban Meyer on Sumrall (49:40)
- Steve Spurrier on Sumrall (56:08)
- Sumrall leans in to challenge (58:17)
- UF vs. FSU (1:00:02)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner: Mens basketball (1:05:28)
- Game picks (1:08:40)
Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin has a decision to make. It can't come soon enough for Florida fans, who hope the Gators' top target to replace Billy Napier is heading to Gainesville. Kiffin will announce his decision Saturday, when Florida and Florida State will square off in the Swamp on Senior Day. A meeting of longtime rivals with plenty of bad blood between them will be overshadowed by Kiffin, who could decide to remain in Oxford or head to LSU to leave the Gators pivoting to their backup plan. As two fanbases brace to be left at the altar, Edgar and Mark discuss the dramatic days ahead during the latest Swamp Things.
- Does Lane Kiffin know where he's going? (00:00)
- How does Kiffin make announcement? (6:45)
- If not Kiffin, then who? (10:42)
- Gators collapse under Vols (13:10)
- Lagway's struggles continue (17:14)
- Least anticipated UF-FSU game (23:18)
- What are staffs' next steps (30:27)
- Matchup offense: Jaden Baugh (32:10)
- Attention paid: DJ's next steps (35:31)
- On the spot: Scott Stricklin (37:24)
- Final thought: Craziest coaching carousel (39:30)
- Game picks (45:48)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner: Mens Basketball (51:20)
The twist and turns of Florida's coaching search continued as top target Lane Kiffin tried to stay the course at Ole Miss. The Rebels' push for a CFP berth remained the focus for the 50-year-old amid the push for an answer about his coaching future. While Kiffin remains mum, Mark and Edgar have plenty to say during latest Swamp Things, including some thoughts on Saturday's Tennessee game and Urban Meyer's return to Gainesville.
- Fight for Lane Kiffin (00:00)
- College coaching search is flawed (8:12)
- Jon Sumerall (10:29)
- Kiffin shell game (12:30)
- Lincoln Riley (14:27)
- Eli Drinkwitz (16:00)
- Tennessee coming to the Swamp (18:34)
- Reason for pessimism (22:20)
- Matchup offense (23:20)
- Matchup defense (24:40)
- Urban Meyer being honored (28:48)
- Football game picks (33:55)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner (36:57)
Lane Kiffin Week ended in a loss, but Florida could have the last laugh and lure away the Ole Miss coach. Until then, the Gators' season continues to spiral, despite their best efforts in Oxford. UF had the Rebels on the ropes, but another fourth-quarter collapse and DJ Lagway miscue ended in the Gators' third consecutive defeat. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss what went wrong, but more importantly whether the Gators will get their man and land Kiffin.
- Kiffin to Gainesville, Baton Rouge? (0:00)
- Turning point (10:53)
- Thumbs-up (15:32)
- Thumbs-down (17:20)
- Second-guess (20:30)
- Game ball (23:08)
- Kiffin's banter (26:14)
- Billy G postgame (27:50)
- Locker room view (30:34)
- Final thought (35:54)
- Mens basketball (47:41)
The Gators are bound for Ole Miss aiming to bounce back from a debacle at Kentucky as Lane Kiffin Week comes to a head. Fans would rather return from Oxford with a head coach than a win. UF might have to wait if Kiffin's Rebels continue their push for a CFP berth. A Gators' upset would accelerate the timetable as the 50-year-old decides whether he'll stay or go. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark weigh the Gators' chances as two-touchdown underdogs Saturday, but seeming favorites to land Kiffin.
- Gators playing for pride (00:00)
- Big audition for both sides of ball (3:23)
- Reason for optimism: Gators auditioning (5:11)
- Reason for pessimism: Kiffin to show no mercy (9:28)
- Matchup offense (13:25)
- Matchup defense
- Attention paid (18:15)
- On the spot: Scott Stricken (23:08)
- Final thought: Tough times in Gainesville (26:53)
- Game picks (34:10)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner: Women's soccer coach out (41:06)
- Mens basketball (44:30)
There are bad performances and tough days, and then there is what happened at Kentucky. A week after putting up a fight to nearly upset Georgia, the Gators were beaten down and eventually gave up during a 38-7 loss to the Wildcats. UF's two trips to Lexington since Billy Napier's arrival ended in lopsided losses by a combined score of 71-21 - a sign of how far the Florida program has fallen. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar hold their noses, try to make sense of what happened and wonder what's left to play for in 2025.
- Bad losses and then what happened in Kentucky (00:00)
- Turning point (6:50)
- Thumbs-up: DJ/Tramell (9:24)
- Thumbs-down: DJ/Tramell (12:50)
- Second-guess (20:57)
- Game ball (27:33)
- Lane Kiffin or bust (29:43)
- Billy G: Did team give up? (33:18)
- Locker room (34:55)
- Final thought (37:48)
- Ole Miss: Florida coming to poach their coach (39:55)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner: Men's basketball (41:29)
Florida heads to Kentucky looking for its first win since 2019 in the Bluegrass State. The Gators nearly upset Georgia under interim coach Billy Gonzales a week ago. UF now has to summon the focus and energy in chilly conditions and on the road in a game pitting two struggling programs playing out the string. Meanwhile, Todd Golden's reigning national champions took out their frustration on North Florida after a season-opening loss to Arizona. The biggest news of a 40-point win was the long-awaited debut of 7-9 Olivier Rioux, who made history as college basketball's tallest player ever. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar face a tall order hyping a Gators-Wildcats clash where the first team to 14 points might win.
- Men's basketball (00:00)
- Olivier Rioux takes the court (6:13)
- Struggles remain (12:14)
- Florida vs. Kentucky: A look back (18:58)
- Reason for optimism (22:49)
- Reason for pessimism (26:31)
- Matchup on offense (28:22)
- Matchup on defense (30:07)
- Attention paid (32:15)
- On the spot (35:33)
- Final thought (38:36)
- Game picks (41:52)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner: Women's basketball (45:17)
The Gators rallied behind interim coach Billy Gonzales to challenge No. 5 Georgia. But Florida fizzled in key moments during their fifth straight loss to the Bulldogs, leaving the Gators with four games to go and little at stake beyond pride and a lower-tier bowl game. Meanwhile, Todd Golden's Gators kicked off the season with a 93-87 loss to Arizona in Las Vegas, where the Gators were unable to summon the late-game magic from the 2025 national title run. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark summon their best effort to find meaning in a lost football season while also sharing their takeaways on the reigning national champions' debut.
- Men's Basketball (0:00)
- Football: Coach Billy Gonzalez (17:17)
- Turning point (20:27)
- Thumbs-up (24:38)
- Second-guess (31:37)
- Game ball (34:37)
- Billy's banter (36:34)
- Locker room view (42:32)
- Final thought (48:48)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner (54:01)
Florida looks to snap a four-game losing streak to Georgia and get on a November run against all odds. Interim coach Billy Gonzales and his players' resolve is sure to be tested. Kirby Smart's Bulldogs are not the dominant force of recent seasons and have experienced some close-calls, but still find ways to win. All eyes, though, are on the winner of the Lane Kiffin Sweepstakes. The Ole Miss coach will have a decision to make. The Rebels and Gators could now find themselves in a battle with LSU for biggest name in the coaching carousel. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark lay out the Lane Train's path to Gainesville and the Gators' path to victory against Georgia.
- Battle for Lane Kiffin (0:00)
- Timetable for landing Kiffin (8:29)
- AD Scott Stricklin looking for GM (14:21)
- Florida vs. Georgia (20:14)
- Reason for pessimism (22:46)
- Matchup offense (25:58)
- Matchup defense (27:46)
- On the spot (33:09)
- Final thought (35:25)
- Game picks (40:28)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner (47:02)
Hope springs eternal as the Gators prepare for the Florida-Georgia game. The Billy Napier era is over. Interim coach Billy Gonzales has made changes to ignite the SEC's lowest-scoring offense, upset the Bulldogs and ultimately salvage the 2025 season. All eyes, though, are on who'll become Florida's next coach. Ole Miss' Lane Kiffin tops the list by a country mile with the fan base. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar look under the hood of the Lane Train and discuss a host of intriguing candidates, some realistic options and others complete non-starters.
- Billy Gonzalez: Green dot helmet (0:00)
- Why would Lane Kiffin come to Gainesville? (7:52)
- How much will it cost to get Kiffin? (13:42)
- Kiffin: Good and bad (16:42)
- Jeff Brohm: Next in line (29:32)
- James Franklin: Turns floundering programs around (31:05)
- Eli Drinkwitz: Grown up in offensive world (33:25)
- Marcus Freeman: Unlikely to leave Notre Dame for UF (36:16)
- Jedd Fisch: Loves the Gators (39:22)
- Alex Golesh (41:56)
- Brent Key: Strong Florida ties (44:28)
- Kenny Dillingham: Not on Florida's radar (46:28)
- Rhett Lashlee: A lot of moxie (48:33)
- Nonstarters (50:28)
- GM hire? (52:07)
- Game picks (55:35)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner: UF baseball coach Kevin O'Sullivan takes leave (1:00:49)
Billy Napier was let go as the Gators turned the page on a failed four-year tenure ending with a 22-23 record and on track for a third losing season. UF is banking on longtime receivers coach Billy Gonzales to inspire a talented roster and ignite a lackluster offense during the remaining five regular-season games. All eyes, though, are on who will replace Napier at season's end, with Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin atop everyone's wish list. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar weigh in on a decision everyone could see coming, how the Gators got here and what direction AD Scott Stricklin should go to resurrect an iconic program and brand picking up the pieces once again.
- Billy Napier on brand until the end (0:00)
- What Billy has built: Legacy good for UF (5:00)
- Transactional coaching in 2025 (8:12)
- Napier: 'I love the game of football' (10:31)
- Behind the scenes: Napier had an edge (13:28)
- AD Scott Stricklin: Napier's decisions brought us here (15:35)
- Napier issue or talent issue? (20:22)
- Stricklin: Next person is taking keys to real kingdom (25:36)
- Interim coach Billy Gonzalez (28:04)
- Players' thoughts (36:30)
- Who is the next coach and how much will he make?(42:05)
- Lane Kiffin next UF coach? (45:12)
- If not Kiffin, who? (48:32)
- Next coach MUST energize fanbase and donors (50:19)
- Coaching long shots: Nick Sabin, Jon Gruden (53:03)
- Timeline for hiring coach (55:22)
- Keep Gonzalez to keep players (59:22)
Florida hosts Mississippi State during what some suspect and many hope is a homecoming send-off for Billy Napier. The Gators are 9.5-point favorites, but the Bulldogs are no pushovers, either. If UF athletic director Scott Stricklin's alma mater pulls an upset, he'll have an easy decision. A Gators' win will make the timing of Napier's inevitable ouster trickier. Either way, Napier's time at UF is coming to a close. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the drama in Gainesville, along with Saturday's matchup.
- Gators host Mississippi State (0:00)
- The final chapters of the Billy Napier book (3 :35)
- Reason for optimism (5:07)
- Reason for pessimism (7:32)
- Matchup offense (10:13)
- Matchup defense (12:26)
- Attention paid: Scott Stricklin (14:38)
- On the spot (21:21)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (25:37)
- Final thought (30:11)
- Game picks (37:14)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner (43:11)
The Gators could not sustain their fast start during a 34-17 loss at Texas A&M, but did have their chances against the No. 5 Aggies before faltering. The loss followed a familiar script, featuring predictable play calling and questionable decision-making, to drop Billy Napier's team to 0-14 against ranked teams away from Gainesville. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark struggle to find many positives from UF's latest performance as the end draws nearer for Napier.
- Gators run out of steam (0:58)
- Turning point (3:54)
- Thumbs-up (8:31)
- Thumbs-down (12:36)
- Second-guess (17:39)
- Game ball (24:56)
- Billy's banter (28:44)
- Locker-room view (30:55)
- Final thought: Firing season (7:59)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner (45 :28)
Coming off a home win against Texas, Florida looks to build on its best performance of the season with a visit to No. 5 Texas A&M. The Aggies are playing as well as any team in the SEC, highlighted by a last-second win at Notre Dame. A&M also has one of the nation’s best home-field advantages. Kyle Field will be nearly 110,000 strong as the Gators seek their first road win against a ranked team under Napier. Meanwhile, quarterback DJ Lagway looks to make a memorable return to the Lone Star State against a school located just 75 minutes from where he grew up. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark preview what shapes up to be Napier’s biggest game as a head coach.
- Heading into Texas A&M (0:00)
- Reason for optimism: Can Gators take this game? (3:24)
- Reason for pessimism: History best indicator of the future (5:46)
- Matchup offense (8:10)
- Matchup defense (12:07)
- Attention paid (15:53)
- On the spot: DJ Lagway (19:01)
- Final thought (22:48)
- Game picks (28:34)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (35:23)
Florida’s 29-21 win against Texas ended a three-game skid and gave the Gators something to build on. Billy Napier remains firmly on the hot seat, but the must-win gave the Gators a jolt of momentum heading to No. 5 Texas A&M and their coach a chance to save himself. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss an electric day in the Swamp and the Gators’ most complete performance of 2025.
- Gators end 3-game skid (0:00)
- Turning point (2:02)
- Thumbs-up (5:28)
- Thumbs-down (8:59)
- Second-guess (12:16)
- Game ball (18:22)
- Billy’s banter (21:13)
- DJ Lagway (26:14)
- Player takes (27:49)
- Final thoughts (30:45)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (35:42)
It’s only October, but time is running out on Florida coach Billy Napier and the 1-3 Gators. Things don’t get any easier, either. After consecutive losses to Top 5 teams, UF hosts No. 9 Texas, a 2024 CFB semifinalist and preseason No. 1. But the Longhorns have their own issues, beginning with quarterback Arch Manning. The preseason Heisman favorite has failed to live up to expectations so far, similar to DJ Lagway for the Gators. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss an intriguing matchup featuring two young QBs searching for answers and a coach hanging on by a thread.
- Texas coming into Swamp: Iconic (0:00)
- Reason for optimism (4:24)
- Reason for pessimism (10:15)
- Matchup offense (14:09)
- Matchup defense (17:17)
- Attention paid (20:08)
- On the spot (27:15)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (31:46)
- Final thought (37:20)
- Pick games (41:23)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:00)
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway attacked the bye week following a forgettable September. He now aims to lead an October turnaround and save Billy Napier’s job. Lagway and Co. face a tall order: The Gators are last in scoring among Power Four teams against FBS foes. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark wonder whether Florida’s offensive woes can be fixed before Lagway’s sophomore season is lost.
- Getting to the root of DJ’s problems (0:00)
- “An itch to scratch on offense” (11:14)
- Play calling (12:16)
- Adapting your personnel (19:35)
- Texas expectations (25:59)
The Gators suffered an offensive collapse for the ages in South Florida to fall to 1-3 for the first time since 1986 and effectively sealed the fate of Billy Napier. The Gators will now need a bye week turnaround unlike any other to save their head coach and salvage what has become a lost season that began with such high hopes. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar try to make sense of DJ Lagway’s Sisyphean struggles, Scott Stricklin’s looming decision on Napier and how bad things could get for a program in free fall.
- Can it get any worse? (0:00)
- Billy Napier vs. Gator Nation (2:12)
- Turning point (5:24)
- Thumbs-up (10:34)
- Contracts (12:34)
- Thumbs-down (13:48)
- Second-guess: Field goal? (17:34)
- Game ball (23:32)
- Biggest concern (26:56)
- Reason for optimism: The countdown is on (30:12)
- Rumored opponents (33:16)
- On the spot: Lane train (35:50)
- Billy’s banter: Excuse-making at its finest (40:24)
- Locker room view (47:20)
- Final thought: Zook 2.0 (48:25)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Basketball (52:26)
Florida heads to No. 4 Miami for the first time since 2013, with coach Billy Napier’s future and the Gators’ season on the line. Seeking its first win at Miami since 1985, UF aims to avoid the program’s first 1-3 start since 1986. If the Gators, a 7.5-point underdog, cannot upset the Hurricanes, Napier soon could be history himself. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar assess Gators’ chances against the unbeaten Hurricanes, the latest Top 5 opponent on Florida’s unrelenting schedule.
- Headed to Miami (0:00)
- Reason for optimism (3:12)
- Reason for pessimism (6:19)
- Matchup on offense (9:14)
- Matchup in defense (11:50)
- On the spot: DJ Lagway (16:52)
- Fine thought (21:03)
- Coaches fired already (24:11)
- Game picks (28:32)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (33:56)
Florida fell to 1-2 with a loss at LSU, yet coach Billy Napier insists the Gators ‘easily could be 3-0.’ In reality, UF is fast approaching 1-3 with a visit to No. 3 Miami up next. DJ Lagway is coming off a 5-interception night for an offense averaging 13 points against FBS competition. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark recap Florida’s recent road loss and Napier's rocky road ahead.
- Turning point (0:00)
- Thumbs-up (6:18)
- Thumbs-down (8:56)
- Second-guess (12:46)
- Game ball (18:40)
- Biggest concern (20:43)
- On the spot (25:22)
- Billy’s banter (27:33)
- Final thought (31:52)
Florida visits LSU looking to rebound from a devastating loss to USF and pick up the Gators’ first win at Tiger Stadium since 2016 — and just its third since 2003. Despite their lofty ranking, the No. 3 Tigers have plenty of room to improve. Meanwhile, UF needs quarterback DJ Lagway and the defense to rediscover their November 2024 form when the Gators upset LSU in the Swamp. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark preview Saturday night’s game as the Gators begin a four-game gauntlet against ranked opponents.
- Billy Napier with edge (2:47)
- Reason for optimism (10:31)
- Reason for pessimism (14:15)
- Matchup in offense (17:34)
- Matchup defense (21:30)
- Attention paid (12:59)
- On the spot (26:51)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (29:23)
- Final thought: Brutal stretch (32:55)
- Picks (35:11)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (40:27)
Florida’s flop against USF in the Swamp has coach Billy Napier and the Gators with their backs against the wall and searching for answers. Expected to be the final tune-up prior to SEC play, the Bulls’ stunning 18-16 win could be the beginning of a Florida freefall unless the Gators can turn it around before heading to No. 3 LSU, followed by a visit to No. 5 Miami. Napier took ownership and said all the right things, but his team’s sloppy, lackluster, disappointing performance Saturday looked all too familiar. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar sound all too familiar having been down this path one too many times during the Napier Era.
- The nightmare that unfolded in The Swamp (:00)
- Final nail in Billy Napier’s coffin (3:22)
- Turning point of game (7:15)
- Thumps-up (9:40)
- Hottest seat in college football (12:48)
- Thumbs-down (14:43)
- AD Scott Stricklin miscalculation (19:02)
- Second-guess: DJ Lagway doesn’t look right (23:05)
- Second-guess: Jadan Baugh is so good (26:41)
- Game ball (28:38)
- Biggest concern: The schedule (31:19)
- Reason for optimism (35:35)
- On the spot: Lagway (39:18)
- Billy’s banter (43:15)
- Coach Ron Zook summons Edgar (44:57)
- Heartbroken, sad & mad (47:50)
- Final thought: It’s over (52:24)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (57:34)
Florida dominated on both sides of the ball during a 55-0 season-opening win against Long Island University featured domination on both sides of the ball. The Gators got what they paid for against the Sharks, who received $525,000 to serve as a Week 1 appetizer. UF now turns its attention to one of the nation’s toughest schedules, perhaps a week earlier than expected. USF should be no pushover when the Bulls visit the Swamp. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar look back - briefly - to LIU and ahead to USF.
- Soft opening for DJ Lagway (:00)
- Young playmakers (3:49)
- Offensive line needs to get better (5:30)
- The Swamp was packed (7:07)
- Reason for optimism: UF vs. USF (9:15)
- Reason for pessimism: Lagway play (12:44)
- Matchup offense (7:14)
- Jaden Baugh (19:20)
- Matchup on D (20:30)
- Attention paid (23:27)
- On the spot (28:28)
- Final thought (31:51)
- Picks (35:30)
- AP rankings (42:14)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (43:40)
Week 1 has finally arrived. After kicking off the season against ranked oppoents his first three seasons, Billy Napier can ease into a pivotal Year 4. So can quarterback DJ Lagway, who is expected to start after nursing injuries ever since the Gasparilla Bowl. But the No. 15 Gators are more than a two-man show. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark break down Florida from all angles ahead of the program’s biggest season in years.
- Setting the line on LIU (:00)
- DJ Lagway off limits (6:14)
- Bland media guide (10:21)
- Key storyline (not Napier or Lagway) (18:00)
- Breakout player (29:39)
- On the spot (25:28)
- X factor (28:22)
- Non-conference schedules (31:17)
- NFL corner (40:19)
- Gators selling something more (46:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:33)
- Picks: Week 1 (53:15)
DJ Lagway’s recovery from a calf injury continues, with Florida’s quarterback participating in 11-on-11 for the first time in fall camp. A modest step could have massive implications, especially given the Gators’ uncertainty behind him. Meanwhile, injuries at receiver have given true freshman Vernell Brown III even more opportunity to establish a key role. UF’s talent, depth and direction have earned preseason praise, including a No. 15 ranking, for coach Billy Napier’s squad. The fourth-year coach is having none of it, dismissing outside opinions as irrelevant and insulting. Mark and Edgar keep the insults at a minimum and distribute their share of praise during the final Swamp Things before Week 1’s long-awaited arrival.
- Positive strides for DJ Lagway (:00)
- QB depth (2:29)
- Lagway must play first game (4:16)
- Playmakers surrounding QB (9:53)
- Billy Napier on praise (15:25)
- All-time AP All-America team (25:25)
- Season tickets sold out? (33:11)
- Anthony Richardson done? (37:20)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (41:21)
- Urban Meyer salute (46:38)
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway’s health remains a concern as the Gators’ Aug. 30 season opener looms. Lagway’s workload will be modified for a while because of a left calf injury as he also continues to progress from an offseason shoulder issue. UF’s fortunes likely hinge on the availability of the sophomore, who turned 20 a day after the Gators checked in at No. 15 in the preseason AP Top 25 featuring 10 SEC teams - six of the Florida opponents. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark run through the Gators’ lengthy injury report, their tenuous quarterback situation and a taxing 2025 schedule.
- DJ Lagway’s health (:00)
- ‘Modified for awhile’ (3:32)
- Other injured players (6:20)
- Expecting huge jumps (12:49)
- QBs generating buzz (15:05)
- DJ or bust season (18:21)
- Hayden Hansen (23:24)
- How will team perform? (28:59)
- Breaking down schedule (34:54)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (40:19)
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway is throwing in front of reporters for the first time since the Gasparilla Bowl, a positive step as he returns from shoulder, core and calf injuries. Lagway’s health could be the key to Billy Napier’s fourth season, though the embattled coach now has a roster better equipped to handle setbacks and able to support whoever lines up at QB. Napier hopes he doesn’t have to put his team’s depth to the test against a schedule featuring seven teams ranked in the coaches’ poll, five of them ahead of the No. 17 Gators. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar have a thorough, at times passionate, discussion about the most promising Florida squad in some time.
- Biggest playmakers not 100% (0:00)
- Backup QBs (7:30)
- Impactful players have a lot to prove (11:45)
- Coaches Poll (16:48)
- Schedules (19:02)
- Depth of talent (27:43)
- Justifying buyouts (51:20)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (56:00)
Florida opens fall camp Wednesday as Billy Napier begins his fourth season in Gainesville. Napier has put together the Gators best roster in years, but all eyes will be on sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway as he returns from a shoulder injury. While Lagway’s health status remains a mystery, coach Todd Golden revealed transfer guard Boogie Fland is recovering from sports hernia surgery as the reigning national champions conclude summer workouts. Golden spoke to reporters at the unveiling of a portrait by UF linebacker James Bates, who has painted one for each of the school’s 20 national championship coaches. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark put the finishing touches on basketball and offer a quick sketch of Napier’s 2025 Gators.
SEC media picked Florida to finish sixth a season after Billy Napier’s team was picked to finish 12th in the expanded 16-team conference. 2024 newcomer Texas is expected to win the league, ahead of Georgia. Each is on UF’s daunting 2025 schedule, but Napier is confident his team can go toe-to-toe with anyone. A big reason is sophomore QB DJ Lagway, who claimed a clean bill of health at Media Days but was left off the three All-SEC teams. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break it all down heading into the weekend.
- SEC media poll (0:00)
- DJ Lagway behind (8:07)
- Wide range of expectations (13:25)
- Schedule strength (15:02)
- Napier more comfort, confident (23:00)
- Longhorns’ Arch Manning (25:40)
- Playoff argument (30:00)
- Rating coaches (34:27)
- Men’s basketball (39:15)
All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr. was recognized one final time after he spearheaded the Gators’ national title, earning SEC Male Athlete of the Year honors. The Lake Wales native became the record 14th UF athlete to earn the distinction, including three in a row, and first SEC men’s basketball player since 2012. Clayton is onto his career’s next chapter, playing in the NBA summer league along with former backcourt mates Will Richard and Alijah Martin. Meanwhile, 7-9 19-year-old Olivier Rioux just wrapped up his summer with Canada’s U-19 as he aims for even a minor role with the reigning national champs. Football, though, is on everyone’s mind, with SEC Media Days set for next week, including a Day 3 appearance by Billy Napier, DJ Lagway and the Gators. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark weigh the key storylines at SECMD, discuss Clayton’s latest honor and send well wishes to Red Panda.
- Basketball: Clayton honor (:00)
- Oli’s plan (9:24)
- Non-conference schedule (12:29)
- AD Scott Stricklin future (18:03)
- Tennis: Ben Shelton (24:42)
- SEC Media Days (28:10)
- Coaches in the hot seat (33:40)
- Players or employees (36:30)
- Lane Kiffin misses his window (40:57)
Florida’s national title-winning guards Walter Clayton, Alijah Martin and Will Richard are headed to the NBA after the trio was among 60 players drafted. Selected No. 18, Clayton improved his value as much as just about anyone, while Martin’s stock also rose considerably — to pick No. 39 — during his one season with the Gators. Thomas Haugh and Alex Condon now push to become 2026 first-rounders themselves. Each first cashed in before the July 1 arrival of the House v. NCAA settlement aims to bring structure and transparency to student-athlete compensation after a four-year period when NIL legislation quickly became pay-for-play. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar squeeze in a final podcast before turning the page on June.
- NBA draft (:00)
- Returning players (17:26)
- NCAA settlement (33:01)
- Football recruiting (55:26)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (58:57)
Todd Golden’s Gators began summer workouts with several new faces, key veterans and one goal in mind: The ability of transfer point guards Boogie Fland and Xaivian Lee to spearhead a rebuilt backcourt will be key to Florida’s aims to repeat. Meanwhile, UF athletic director Scott Stricklin soon will enter uncharted waters with the House v. NCAA settlement set to go into effect July 1. During the lastest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar have plenty to unpack as summer is upon us.
- Catching up (0:00)
- Mens basketball update (5:46)
- Schedule released (18:20)
- Football (26:02)
- AD Scott Stricklin on settlement (33:20)
- How do schools have any hope? (40:34)
- NBA Draft (54:32)
Following a no-show on the field for Kevin O’Sullivan’s baseball team the longtime Gators coach had no place to hide. He was caught on film delivering a profanity-laced tirade at on-site officials. At least, UF’s softball team kept it classy despite disappointing results by Tim Walton’s squad. A week after men’s golf came up short and lacrosse flopped at the Final Four, it’s been a tough close to the spring for the Gators. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark wrap up the sports calendar with only track and field remaining and summer workouts beginning in football and hoops.
- Coach Kevin O'Sullivan tirade (0:00)
- Baseball season (13:33)
- Jac Caglianone called up to Majors (17:40)
- College Football Hall of Fame ballot (20:28)
- Softball season in review (25:26)
- Track and field falls short (29:47)
- Athlete contracts (30:00)
- Basketball: Olivier Rioux center stage (41:13)
- Summer workouts (46:44)
- Football OTAs (49:28)
The Gators received a major boost when Alex Condon withdrew from the NBA draft. Florida will open practice June 9 with a team poised to challenge for another national title. The football team’s hopes rest largely on the health of DJ Lagway. Billy Napier said this week he’s increasing his workload and should be 100% when the season opens. By then, college football should have some answers to some big questions surrounding the sport. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar tackle a litany of topics three months from the start of the 2025 season.
- Alex Condon is back (0:00)
- Basketball stats (10:16)
- Shoe deal (14:52)
- Napier: DJ Lagway's workload (20:00)
- NIL's impact on discipline issues (29:10)
- Team development (36:51)
- SEC spring meetings (38:47)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (1:01:59)
Florida has shifted its early season scheduling philosophy in football to provide the Gators a soft opening and enhance their College Football Playoff hopes. Visits from LIU, FAU, South Florida, South Alabama, Campbell and Charleston Southern are a necessary evil, but a hard sell for Edgar while Mark is a bit more forgiving during the latest Swamp Things. Highly coveted transfer guard Boogie Fland’s visit, the national championship trip to the White House and a smorgasbord of spring sports also provide plenty to chew on.
- Football schedule (0:00)
- Basketball schedule (14:14)
- Gators at While House (26:40)
- Coach salaries (30:58)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (35:08)
Florida’s national championship earned coach Todd Golden a new contract with a hefty raise to put him among the nation’s highest-paid men's basketball coaches at age 39. UF included plenty of perks and some incentives to enhance the 6-year, $40.5 million package, but did little to make the deal ironclad if the NBA came calling. Meanwhile, Billy Napier’s assistant coaches got richer this offseason, highlighting the cost of doing business in SEC football — even for an 8-win team. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar dig into the numbers and plenty else, including a recent Gators’ arrest and an early exit at the SEC softball tournament.
- Todd Golden contract (0:00)
- Contract perks (8:58)
- Closing in on Billy Napier (14:01)
- Football staff raises (18:56)
- Ninth game? (31:25)
- CB Dijon Johnson arrest (41:07)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:43)
The NFL draft was a waiting game for the Gators, but seven Florida players eventually had their names called while several others heard from NFL teams once the three-day marathon concluded. DJ Lagway’s wait also is over as Florida’s star quarterback has resumed throwing after resting and rehabbing an ailing shoulder in recent months. Meanwhile, Todd Golden added another transfer, Orlando native AJ Brown, as he continues to put the pieces together to make another championship run. On the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark do their best to juggle a lot of moving parts themselves during a busy end to April.
- Gators in NFL draft (0:00)
- Montrell Johnson Jr. (3:02)
- Graham Mertz (7:43)
- Jeremy Crawshaw (16:52)
- Desmond Watson (19:33)
- Other signings (21:33)
- Jags: Travis Hunter (28:37)
- Spotlight on the Jacksonville (32:57)
- Shedeur Sanders saga (34:29)
- QB DJ Lagway healthy (40:37)
- Bill Belichick restrictions (44:49)
- Todd Golden making moves (47:58)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:21)
Fresh off a national championship, Todd Golden turned his attention to restocking his roster and completing his coaching staff. Yet, Golden did not expect Denzel Aberdeen to become part of the equation. Instead, the Orlando native and member of Golden’s first UF team three seasons ago entered the transfer portal for a bigger payday and, presumably, a better opportunity at SEC rival Kentucky. Aberdeen’s about-face is a sign of the times. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar wonder what it says about the state of college sports, the sustainability of the current system and how Florida’s roster will ultimately shake out.
- Mind boggling transfer portal (2:56)
- UF’s success leads to demise (7:13)
- Evolution of the portal (16:42)
- Todd Golden cashing in (26:57)
- No more operating in the shadows (37:03)
- Gators in NFL draft (44:07)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (53:37)
Florida’s spring football game also became one last chance to celebrate newly minted national champions in men’s basketball. On a picturesque day in Gainesville, a reported crowd of 56,563, the largest since Tim Tebow’s final spring game, came out to cheer Todd Golden’s Gators and see whether Billy Napier’s program is getting closer to competing for one. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark have plenty to chat about, including some quick thoughts on a wild Masters Sunday during a memorable two-weekend stretch.
- Basketball team honored (:00)
- Todd Golden contract (2:27)
- Deserving of own event (4:17)
- Heavyweight boosters (9:00)
- Top targets (19:02)
- Spring football game: DJ Lagway status (22:31)
- Other players (39:50)
- Game not televised (38:48)
- Who didn’t play (41:00)
- Autograph line for Lagway (43:15)
- AD Scott Stricklin gets booed (44:39)
- Most joyless person: Bill Belichick (49:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (51:10)
- The Masters (54:24)
Todd Golden’s squad saved its best for last, staging yet another comeback - its fourth in six NCAA Tournament games - to capture the school’s third national title in men’s basketball. Along the way, Golden established himself as a rising star, while Walter Clayton became the darling of the Big Dance to win Most Outstanding Player honors and position himself as a potential first round NBA Draft pick. Three national titles and five Final Fours since 2000 also put the Gators in the conversation of the best basketball programs of the millennium. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break it all down, from the exhilarating run to what it all means for Golden, Clayton, AD Scott Stricklin and the Gators - oh yeah, and let’s not forget the spring football game.
- Historic win for Gators (0:00)
- Players that left their mark (4:40)
- Clayton best in Florida basketball history (10:13)
- Golden: 10-year deal (14:39)
- Next year’s team (22:25)
- Blue blood program? (29:24)
- Is AD Stricklin out of the woods now? (36:00)
- Gator Nation showed up (40:11)
- Spring football game (47:07)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:44)
Florida is heading to the Final Four for the first time since 2014 after a stunning comeback against Texas Tech in San Francisco. All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr. once again led the way with another scintillating performance during perhaps the greatest comeback in Gators sports history. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark catch up about the UF’s remarkable run under Todd Golden, Clayton’s rise to stardom and what it will take for the Gators to bring home their first national title since 2007.
- Greatest comeback in school history (0:00)
- Thomas Haugh comes through (4:22)
- Walter Clayton putting on a show (7:13)
- Teams headed to San Antonio (20:04)
- Todd Golden is one of the guys (32:17)
- Travel aches and pains (35:55)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (42:11)
Florida traveled cross-country two days after ousting two-time defending national UConn in the NCAA Tournament to keep alive the Gators’ championship dream. Next up, a date with Maryland in the Sweet 16. The Terps are tough and talented, but the Gators are deeper and just might have the most confident player in the Big Dance - All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss Todd Golden’s emotional return to the Bay Area and what it’ll take for the Gators to keep dancing into the Elite Eight.
- Coming from San Francisco (0:00)
- Todd Golden homecoming (3:32)
- Facing Maryland (14:18)
- Free throws (22:10)
- Big guys (23:52)
- Turnovers (25:12)
- Pace (26:16)
- Best player in school history (27:53)
- Staff changes, portal opens (38:31)
- UF’s Pro Day: Big 5 (42:24)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:27)
Florida earned a top seed in the NCAA Tournament after their first SEC Tournament title since 2014, the last time the Gators reached the Final Four. Todd Golden’s team is poised for a deep run after rising to the top of a conference with a record 14 bids to the Big Dance. But upsets and Cinderella stories abound during what is arguably the most riveting event in sports. On the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark have great expectations as the Gators begin pursuit of a national championship.
- How good is this team? (0:00)
- Setting the tone out of the gate (3:49)
- Making a case for Florida (10:49)
- SEC smashing record (17:25)
- The Big Dance delivers (19:59)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (32:40)
Florida aims to secure a top seed in the Big Dance at the conference tournament. History says it’s the best path to a national title. Todd Golden’s team is SEC’s No. 2 seed and riding a wave of momentum after one of the best regular seasons in school history. Billy Napier’s Gators, on the other hand, are amid spring practices without star quarterback DJ Lagway able to throw the ball. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the prospects of Golden’s Gators and Lagway’s health, along with a jam-packed spring sports calendar.
- Path to No. 1 seed (0:00)
- Inside track to tournament (8:17)
- Todd Golden: Prepping for Missouri (12:28)
- Gator Football: DJ Lagway injury (18:14)
- Billy Napier’s message for team (22:58)
- Developing depth (32:59)
- O-line status (36:47)
- Standouts (39:21)
- DJ Lagway foundation (48:44)
- Red Panda controversy (51:55)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (53:44)
lorida’s no-show at Georgia against former coach Mike White was the ultimate head-scratcher during a special season. Todd Golden’s Gators enter the final stretch of the regular season pushing to regain their mojo and momentum. With spring football a week away, Billy Napier continues to make staff moves on the offensive side of the ball. Will fresh ideas follow? Meanwhile, Mark and Edgar discuss a jam-packed spring sports calendar and pay homage to acting legend Gene Hackman, leading to a discussion of best all-time sports movies during the latest Swamp Things.
- Basketball: Not hitting panic button yet (1:09)
- Moving forward (7:22)
- Football: Staff moves(14:26)
- Georgia NCAA settlement (23:12)
- Women’s basketball coach (28:28)
- Gene Hackman death (30:38)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (35:10)
Florida has risen to No. 2 in the poll, rides a five-game winning streak and has rekindled memories of the ‘04s. Todd Golden’s Gators have much work ahead but are primed for a deep postseason run. Meanwhile, Billy Napier has swapped cornerbacks coaches as spring football approaches while several teams are off to strong starts as UF gears up for another fruitful spring sports season. After a week away for the Daytona 500, Mark and Edgar catch up on it all during the latest Swamp Things.
- Daytona 500 (:00)
- Men’s basketball (3:40)
- What can trip team up? (15:15)
- Keeping Todd Golden happy (21:01)
- Billy Napier coaching changes (28:36)
- Bigger target on Napier (33:16)
- Future schedules (39:30)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:43)
National Signing Day ended with Florida holding the No. 8 class in 2025 in Billy Napier’s fourth recruiting cycle. Four-star CB Onis Konanbanny’s flip from Tennessee was the key addition. Meanwhile, Napier made two key hires, including his first to the Florida’s fledgling front office, and discussed his decision to continue play-calling duties. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss a newsy NSD, a huge game in men’s basketball and a robust Olympic sports calendar.
- National Signing Day: Gators #8 class (:00)
- Recruiting: A guessing game (5:11)
- Beyond DJ Lagway (9:08)
- Napier’s play calling (11:34)
- Signed players (15:37)
- Yellow flag: Attrition (23:25)
- Defense (30:38)
- Year 4 structure (34:29)
- Men’s basketball (41:35)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (45:23)
Todd Golden was absolved during a Title IX investigation into claims of stalking and sexual harassment against the Florida men’s basketball coach. Tremendous support and skepticism followed the decision. On the court, the No. 5 Gators are set to face their toughest two weeks, with a chance to separate themselves in a stacked SEC featuring 10 Top 25 teams. Meanwhile, Billy Napier enters his first offseason with high expectations, but plenty of questions as he adds to his staff and continues to mine the transfer portal. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the end of Golden’s months-long saga and much more.
- Todd Golden cleared (0:00)
- Reflecting on allegations (7:28)
- UF: Todd is innocent! (11:42)
- Grueling February (14:08)
- Breaking down the team (19:11)
- Gator football staffing (26:14)
- Portal news (30:03)
- Parking at O’Connell Center (35:40)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (38:27)
The college football season wrapped up Monday night with Ohio State beating Notre Dame. The back-to-back national titles for the Big Ten is the league’s first since the Buckeyes’ 2014 crown under Urban Meyer and put SEC dominance on pause. Speaking of Meyer, the former Gators coach sat down with a quartet of reporters, including Mark and Edgar, to discuss his recent election to the Hall of Fame and reflect on his time at UF. Meanwhile, Florida looked dominant again at home in men’s basketball, rebounding from a head-scratching loss to Missouri with a rout of SEC newcomer Texas. Catch up on all of it, and more, during the latest Swamp Things.
- College Football Championship (:00)
- Gators path to playoffs (9:13)
- QBs: Lagway and backups (16:00)
- Men’s basketball (22:32)
- Allegations against player (26:02)
- Urban Meyer meeting (30:48)
- Meyer’s regret (38:49)
- Edgar on Insta (43:17)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Gymnastics (50:29)
A day after reaching their highest ranking since 2017, No. 5 Florida was stunned by Missouri to end a 16-game home winning streak and put Final Four plans on hold. The Tigers out-toughed the Gators from the jump - to the chagrin of Todd Golden. The Gators now look to bounce back against Texas and keep pace in the stacked SEC. Meanwhile, all’s quiet in football, a bit too quiet for many people’s liking as Billy Napier has yet to make the staff changes or capitalize on the transfer portal as many expected. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark wonder what went wrong for Golden’s Gators and whether Napier has gone rogue.
- Basketball: No-show game (:00)
- Rowdy Reptiles shout-out (6:00)
- The target gets bigger (7:39)
- Football (20:00)
- Transfer portal (30:05)
- Hula Bowl players (35:14)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (37:57)
Florida whipped top-ranked Tennessee in historic fashion as Todd Golden’s team continues to dominate in the O’Dome and raise Final Four hopes. Meanwhile, football’s offseason has been quieter than expected. That could change with upcoming staff moves and - fans hope - potential transfer portal activity. Mark, Edgar and Wesley return from a two-week hiatus to catch up on recent events during the latest Swamp Things.
- Mens basketball: Historic win (1:17)
- Next step for team (8:30)
- Rowdy Reptiles unhappy (10:24)
- Football: Transfer portal (13:51)
- Building the roster (16:26)
- General manager hire (19:21)
- Other staff changes (23:22)
- Notre Dame vs. Penn State (33:56)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Gymnastics (35:41)
The Gators and DJ Lagway weren’t at their best against outmatched Tulane, but didn’t need to be during a 25-point Gasparilla Bowl win. But Florida’s fortunes under Billy Napier will hinge on how he performs this offseason. The transfer portal closes soon, staff changes are likely pending and the implementation of a front office is inevitable. During an impromptu, holiday edition of Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break it all down for a final time in 2024.
- Christmas comes early for UF (0:00)
- Positions to fill (13:07)
- Playoff game ratings/sellouts? (21:29)
- Gasparilla Bowl (31:55)
- Turning point (33:47)
- Thumbs up (36:57)
- Thumbs down (38:58)
- Second guess (41:53)
- Game ball (45:03)
- Biggest concern (50:11)
- Final thought (54:17)
- Tiger and Charlie at PNC Championship (56:23)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (58:34)
Florida pushes to end 2024 on a four-game winning streak and complete an impressive turnaround in Billy Napier’s third season. The Gators are two-touchdown favorites against a team without its starting quarterback, but Green Wave coach Jon Sumrall wants to avoid a season-ending three-game skid to cap a once-promising debut season. Meanwhile, a lack of activity mining the transfer portal, the possible flip of 5-star wideout Dallas Wilson and the unbeaten men’s basketball team also have Edgar and Mark’s attention during the latest Swamp Things.
- Gasparilla Bowl appetizer (:00)
- Backyard game (3:50)
- Dallas Wilson drama (6:25)
- Portal handwringing (8:20)
- Billy earned benefit of the doubt (15:00)
- Reason for optimism (17:13)
- Reason for pessimism (22:59)
- Matchup on offense (25:24)
- Matchup on defense (27:28)
- Who has your attention? (30:05)
- On the spot (32:49)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (36:58)
- Breaking news: Donation and challenge (39:24)
- Final thought (42:45)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (48:59)
The SEC released the 2025 football schedule to lay out the uphill climb ahead for the Gators. But coach Billy Napier has plenty of immediate challenges to address, including a roster makeover and staff changes. Meanwhile, Todd Golden’s top-10 basketball team will face its toughest test to date against Arizona State while the No. 3 gymnastics squad will take to the floor for the first time. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar do their best to keep track of it all - and more - during a relentless December.
- Portal madness: Jack Pyburn (:00)
- Players to get (9:49)
- 2025 schedule (14:13)
- SEC making it even more difficult (24:30)
- Dan Mullen back in the game (30:20)
- Bill Belichick at UNC (36:24)
- Austin Armstrong breaking news (42:21)
- Basketball (43:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner:Gymnastics (52:08)
Florida is headed to Tampa to face Tulane Dec. 20 in the Gasparilla Bowl. The Gators’ appearance in the 2021 game occurred under much different circumstances, with an interim coach and Billy Napier waiting in the wings to replace Dan Mullen. Florida now seeks its first four-game winning streak under Napier. Meanwhile, the Green Wave’s starting quarterback entered the transfer portal in a sign of the times in college football. During the coming weeks, the Gators hope to prevent attrition and add key players while picking up their first bowl win since 2019. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss a critical, chaotic month for Napier’s program and the new 12-team College Football Playoff.
- Gasparilla Bowl (:00)
- Bowl game lineup (8:02)
- ‘Rabbit hole down a rabbit hole’ (13:34)
- Playoff fallout (15:30)
- 2025-26 schedule (26:04)
- Gators’ 2025-26 success (30:41)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (44:10)
Three weeks ago, the Gators’ 2025 recruiting class was barely inside the top-50 and circling the drain. But since upsetting LSU, the Gators have flipped the script along with a dozen recruits committed to other schools. By NSD, the Gators had risen to No. 11, and even briefly entered the top 10. Billy Napier credited UF AD Scott Stricklin’s vote of confidence followed by the Gators’ 3-game winning streak convincing prospects who were on the fence to take a leap of faith. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark break down Napier’s fourth class at Florida.
- Signing day: Athletes take leap of faith (:00)
- Legacy guys (2:03)
- Impact player (5:12)
- ‘He’s going to be a monster’ (10:08)
- ‘A human forklift’ (13:10)
- Ty Jackson (16:44)
- Big misses (18:16)
- Biggest concern (21:02)
- Napier: A sense of relief (23:33)
- Next step (27:15)
- Final thought (30:26)
- Best of Billy (37:47)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (41:00)
Florida ended a two-game losing streak against archrival Florida State during a matchup with as much action following a 31-11 victory than during it. The game itself might have been ugly, but it was ultimately a thing of beauty to the Gators. A midfield flag planting, an ensuing scuffle and victory cigars in the visitors locker room demonstrated how much the win meant to the players. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss Florida’s season-ending flourish and the huge month ahead for Billy Napier’s program.
- Ugly game before and after game (:00)
- Turning point (4:55)
- Thumbs up (7:23)
- Thumbs down (10:13)
- Second guess (15:10)
- Game ball (21:41)
- Biggest concern (23:47)
- Billy’s banter (31:40)
- Final thought (38:09)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball (41:33)
An unexpected reversal of fortunes suddenly gives Billy Napier’s surging Gators the upper hand against Mike Norvell’s struggling Seminoles. UF is coming off consecutive wins against ranked opponents while FSU cracked 20 points for the first time in nearly three months against Charleston Southern. Florida is a 15-point favorite during the latest meeting between the in-state rivals as the Gators seek their first win in Tallahassee since 2018. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar wonder what happened to two proud programs suddenly heading in opposite directions.
- UF vs FSU: Reversal of fortunes (:00)
- Reason for optimism (3:11)
- Reason for pessimism (5:29)
- Matchup on offense (8:01)
- Matchup on defense (10:20)
- Who has your attention? (13:21)
- On the spot (15:24)
- Final thought (24:12)
- Picking the game (28:30)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (29:38)
Florida backed up an upset of LSU with another inspired performance to knock Ole Miss out of the College Football Playoff and end Lane Kiffin-to-Gainesville speculation. Billy Napier is pleased with his team’s turnaround, but far from satisfied to merely scratch his first winning season at UF. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the Gators’ winning formula and continue to gush about the DJ Lagway Effect.
- Lane train stopped in his tracks (:00)
- Turning point (6:01)
- Thumbs up (9:27)
- Thumbs down (13:13)
- Second guess (16:00)
- Game ball (18:42)
- Biggest concern (20:44)
- Billy’s banter (25:36)
- Final thought (34:30)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (39:51)
Florida hosts No. 9 Ole Miss looking to build on an impressive performance against LSU in a game that could prove a turning point for Billy Napier’s program. Lane Kiffin has put together a senior-, transfer-laden team that leads the SEC in scoring and second in point allowed. But the Gators will have momentum and a sold-out Swamp behind them as they aim to knock the Rebels out of the College Football Playoff hunt. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark give the Gators better than a puncher’s chance as they analyze the matchup.
- Florida vs. Ole Miss (:00)
- What Gator victory would mean (5:28)
- Reason for optimism (11:00)
- Reson for pessimism (13:17)
- Matchup on offense (15:57)
- Matchup on defense (18:49)
- Who has your attention? (20:48)
- On the spot (22:43)
- Unsubstantiated rumors: Bowl games (24:40)
- Final thought (28:57)
- Who is winning? (31:17)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (31:10)
Florida rose to the occasion against LSU to position the Gators for bowl eligibility and provide validation for Billy Napier’s vote of confidence. Napier’s team executed in all three phases and continued to show the resilience and buy-in UF AD Scott Stricklin praised when backing his embattled coach. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark break down a performance that could signal better days ahead.
- Florida victory over LSU (:00)
- Turning point (3:52)
- Thumbs up (8:10)
- Thumbs down (13:17)
- Second guess (17:27)
- Game ball (21:07)
- Billy’s banter (29:15)
- Player comments (31:10)
- Final thought (37:41)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Basketball (41:58)
Two embattled Florida coaches square off this weekend against heated rivals. Golden’s No. 20 Gators head to Florida State while Napier’s squad will host No. 21 LSU. Golden’s reception will be even more hostile than usual given accusations against him for stalking and sexual harassment. Napier returns to the Swamp off the Gators’ worst loss during his three seasons and on the heels of a vote of confidence from AD Scott Stricklin. A Florida win would position the Gators for a bowl bid, but a loss would be six straight to LSU in what used to be one of the SEC’s best rivalry games. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar do their best to catch listeners up with a busy, crazy time in Gainesville.
- Embattled coaches vs bitter rivals (:00)
- Todd Golden statement (2:26)
- On the court (8:32)
- Alex Lloyd signed (11:00)
- Olivier Rioux redshirts (12:05)
- Football: LSU coming to town (15:39)
- Reason for optimism (17:06)
- Reason for pessimism (19:51)
- Offensive matchup (22:20)
- Defensive matchup (24:51)
- Who has your attention? (26:42)
- On the spot (30:12)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (33:32)
- Who’s going to win? (37:28)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (39:13)
Basketball coach Todd Golden’s Title IX investigation on heels of Billy Napier’s vote of confidence was the ultimate 1-2 punch for Florida fans. Two days after AD Scott Stricklin’s endorsement of his embattled football coach, Napier’s depleted Gators suffered the worst defeat during his tenure, by 32 points at Texas. The accusations against Golden generated headlines, outrage and concerns. But UF’s third-year coach was on the sideline Monday night against Grambling State and got a warm reception from the fan base and a strong performance from his team. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the craziest few days during their more than two decades covering Florida athletics.
- Todd Golden investigation (:00)
- Character assassination (9;33)
- Support from family and fans (14:20)
- On the court (15:45)
- Football: Florida at Texas (21:15)
- Thumbs up (22:50)
- Thumbs down (24:46)
- Second guess (27:00)
- Game ball (30:25)
- Bowl game possibilities (31:55)
- Billy’s banter (34:03)
- Napier’s vote of confidence (36:37)
- Final thought (38:28)
- Recruitting (40:52)
- Jeremy Foley’s corner (43:59)
UF is standing behind its coach as the Gators enter the home stretch of his third season showing positive signs. Decision-makers are banking on 2025 to finally be Billy Napier’s year. The vote of confidence comes as Florida heads to No. 5 Texas as 21.5-point underdogs with a third-string walk-on quarterback hoping to ride a solid running game, resurgent defense and two of the nation’s top specialists. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss where the Gators go from here with four games remaining and another season ahead under Napier.
- Billy is back! (:00)
- Financial decision? (7:31)
- Will UF live to regret decision? (11:43)
- Texas matchup (14:44)
- Reason for optimism (17:47)
- Reason for pessimism (20:48)
- Offensive matchup (23:23)
- Defensive matchup (28:33)
- Attention paid (30:09)
- On the spot (31:41)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (33:58)
- Final thought (35:35)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Basketball (37:47)
Florida went toe to toe with the Bulldogs and had a chance late in the game despite relying on third-string quarterback and a dwindling roster. The Gators’ grit shined during a 34-20 loss and spotlighted their resilience under Billy Napier. The challenge only intensifies with a visit to No. 5 Texas ahead and walk-on QB Aidan Warner leading the way. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar review another Gators’ near-miss, praise their effort and wonder whether Florida has the manpower to challenge the final three SEC opponents.
- DJ Lagway injury (:00)
- Injuries piling up (2:16)
- Napier earns 4th year (3:47)
- DJ Lagway status (8:51)
- Turning point (12:31)
- Thumbs up (17:40)
- Thumbs down (22:31)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (24:51)
- Second guess (27:47)
- Game ball (31:46)
- Biggest concern (35:16)
- On the spot (38:57)
- Billy’s banter (43:07)
- Aidan Mizell: Fastest on team (53:23)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (55:37)
The Gators are coming off their best performance behind their true freshman quarterback, DJ Lagway. Billy Napier’s team, led by Lagway, will need to be even better to have a chance against Kirby Smart’s No. 2 Bulldogs, who are 16.5-point favorites and winners of three straight meetings. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the Gators' toughest test to date as they enter a daunting November.
- November gauntlet starts with Georgia (0:00)
- Reason for optimism (7:23)
- Reason for pessimism (9:59)
- Offensive matchup (13:32)
- Defensive matchup (16:34)
- Who has your attention? (19:34)
- On the spot (24:15)
- Final thought (28:06)
- Who is winning? (36:39)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (37:17)
No. 21 Florida is ranked in the preseason Top 25 for the first time since 2019. Todd Golden’s team has the pieces to be the Gators best squad since the 2016-17 Gators made an Elite Eight appearance. UF opens the season Nov. 4 in Jacksonville, two days after Florida faces No. 2 Georgia in football at EverBank Stadium. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark talk hoops, with a little football mixed in, during the Gators’ bye week.
- Football: Offensive line should not be overlooked (0:00)
- Men’s basketball: Promising team (9:48)
- Olivier Rioux (12:57)
- Returners (18:00)
- Transfers (28:00)
- Schedule (35:40)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (38:34)
Florida turned in its most complete performance of the Billy Napier era with a 4-touchdown rout of Kentucky. Led by a pair of true freshmen, QB DJ Lagway and RB Jadan Baugh, the Gators scored their most points under Napier during an SEC game. The defense continued its stellar play in October. Now the hard part: A November schedule featuring four Top 25 SEC teams. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark gush about the Gators’ latest win and its impact on Napier’s future.
- Gators top Wildcats (0:00)
- Billy Napier’s job security (3:41)
- Turning point (10:13)
- Thumbs up (13:06)
- Thumbs down (20:44)
- Second guess (24:00)
- Game ball (28:00)
- Biggest concern (30:16)
- On the spot (32:46)
- Billy’s banter (35:38)
- Post game (41:27)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (44:19)
Coming off a crushing loss at Tennessee, the Gators look to end the recent dominance of Kentucky. The Wildcats seek their fourth straight win against Florida for the only time since Bear Bryant was their coach from 1948-51. Mark Stoops seems to have Billy Napier’s number. Napier’s days could already be numbered at UF; a homecoming loss could prove the final straw. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar map out the path to a victory the Gators and Napier desperately need.
- What Wildcat win would mean (:00)
- Reason for optimism (5:58)
- Reason for pessimism (7:51)
- Matchup on offense (10:24)
- Matchup on defense (13:29)
- Who has your attention? (16:12)
- On the spot (18:18)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (20:37)
- Final thought: Hall of Fame (23:56)
- Who is winning? (30:22)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (32:02)
Florida suffered a “gut punch,” in Billy Napier’s words at Tennessee, squandering a 10-0 second-half lead before falling in overtime on Rocky Top. But the Gators lost more than a game; veteran quarterback Graham Mertz suffered a season-ending injury as his college career came to an end. UF now turns to true freshman DJ Lagway full time. An inspired, improving defense will help, but the Gators are just entering the toughest stretch of the nation’s most difficult schedule. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar press on as the Gators get ready for a homecoming showdown with Kentucky.
- Inspired performance and comedy of errors (:00)
- Turning point (2:15)
- Thumbs up (6:57)
- Thumbs down (9:49)
- Second guess (11:12)
- Game ball (16:49)
- Biggest concern (19:37)
- On the spot (23:34)
- Billy’s banter (27:00)
- From Mertz to DJ (31:39)
- Final thought (38:13)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (44:00)
The Gators head to Rocky Top coming off a pair of convincing victories and now seeking a signature win in 2024. The rival Vols are 15.5-point favorites, but have not won consecutive visits from Florida since 1990 and 1992. Meanwhile, coach Billy Napier has not won consecutive road games at UF. Something's gotta give. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss the matchup ahead of Hurricane Milton’s arrival.
- ‘Super Bowl of the South’ (:00)
- Reason for optimism (3:42)
- Reason for pessimism (7:22)
- Matchup on defense (11:42)
- Matchup on offense (14:05)
- On the spot (17:11)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (19:24)
- Final thought (24:17)
- A win or loss? (27:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (30:18)
Florida’s long-awaited matchup with UCF turned into a one-sided show of superiority by Billy Napier’s team. With their coach’s future in doubt, the Gators have now won two straight games by double digits. The schedule gets only tougher, but it’s a start. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark reflect on the Gators performance and whether it’s a sign of things to come.
- Unpredictable SEC (0:00)
- Turning point (4:32)
- Thumbs up (6:29)
- Thumbs down (8:39)
- Second guess (11:57)
- Game ball (15:33)
- Biggest concern (17:42)
- Reason for optimism (23:17)
- On the spot (24:25)
- Billy’s banter (27:06)
- Final thoughts (36:26)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (39:35)
The Gators and Knights will square off during the regular season for the first time since 2006, back when UF was en route to a national championship and UCF on its way to a 4-win season during its second season in Conference USA. Times have changed. Florida has fallen to the back end of the SEC and faces its latest must-win game under coach Billy Napier as the pressure continues to intensify in Year 3. Gus Malzahn’s UCF program, now in Year 2 in the Big 12, pushes to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Colorado in its conference opener. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break down a game between two schools seeking in-state bragging and midseason momentum in a sold-out Swamp.
- In-state bragging rights (0:00)
- Giving UCF a shot (4:04)
- No injury report (11:51)
- Reason for optimism (17:30)
- Reason for pessimism (19:40)
- Matchup on offense (22:44)
- Matchup on defense (25:00)
- Attention paid (27:30)
- On the spot (29:15)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (33:43)
- Final thought (37:33)
- Who is winning? (41:15)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball (43:00)
Florida took care of business with a decisive showing at Mississippi State. The two-quarterback system ignited a big day on offense, but continued defensive issues kept things interesting against the SEC bottom-feeding Bulldogs. While the performance won’t save Billy Napier, it allowed the Gators embattled coach to fight another day. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break down a much-needed win as Napier pushes to build some momentum.
- Gators came out on top at Mississippi State (:00)
- Biggest bye week of Napier’s life (4:11)
- UCF vs. UF at 7:45pm Oct. 5 (5:21)
- Turning point (6:13)
- Thumbs up (9:19)
- Thumbs down (11:04)
- Game ball (13:52)
- Second guess (17:03)
- Reason for optimism (22:43)
- On the spot (27:26)
- Billy’s banter (28:32)
- Locker room view (31:26)
- Final thought (34:09)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (39:01)
Billy Napier’s team seeks a rare road win when the Gators head to Starkville to face the Bulldogs. UF is just 2-10 away from Gainesville under Napier, but is a surprising six-point favorite against the rebuilding Bulldogs under first-year coach Jeff Lebby. A Florida win entering a bye week could stabilize a chaotic situation a bit before UCF’s Oct. 5 visit to the Swamp. A Gators’ loss could spell the end of Napier. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss what Florida needs to do to avoid falling into the SEC cellar.
- Breaking down why Napier hasn’t been fired (:00)
- Reason for optimism (10:24)
- Reason for pessimism (12:05)
- Matchup on offense (15:42)
- Matchup on defense (18:20)
- Who has your attention? (22:15)
- Unsubstantiated rumor (24:30)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Soccer (32:03)
It’s a matter of when not if UF decides to move on from their embattled and overmatched head coach. A 33-20 home to Texas A&M to open SEC play was more of the same for a program with seven straight losses to power conference foes and a pedestrian 10-6 on the Gators iconic home field. Napier survived to coach another week, Saturday at Mississippi State. Ron Zook’s final game as head coach was in Starkville 20 years ago. Will history repeat itself? During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss whether Napier has a path out and wonder how he keeps the Gators together.
- How did Napier survive Black Sunday? (:00)
- Whose cellphone is blowing up the most? (8:09)
- Turning point (11:15)
- Thumbs up (13:12)
- Second guess (17:47)
- Game ball (22:49)
- Biggest concern (24:48)
- Reason for optimism (28:08)
- On the spot (32:01)
- Billy’s banter (33:45)
- Locker room view (36:47)
- Final thoughts (39:36)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball (42:00)
Florida opens conference play looking to build on a feel-good win against Samford and prove a season-opening loss to Miami was an anomaly. The Gators have lost six straight games to power conference opponents, but have reason for optimism after true freshman quarterback DJ Lagway’s breakout performance. How Billy Napier capitalizes and handles his quarterbacks could determine his fate and his team’s chances against the rebuilding Aggies. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark weigh Napier’s options and the stakes of Saturday’s game.
- Texas A&M: Must-win game (:00)
- QB controversy? (2:39)
- Injuries (12:09)
- Reason for optimism (15:42)
- Reason for pessimism (18:08)
- Matchup on Defense (22:12)
- Who has your attention? (25:18)
- What are you hearing? (30:04)
- Final thought (32:35)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Softball (35:22)
A record-setting performance by Florida’s quarterback of the future and overmatched opponent has given Billy Napier and Gator fans hope. Lagway’s 456 yards yards shattered the UF’s single-season standard for a freshman and breathed some hope and excitement back into the Gators. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar reflect on the beginning of the DJ Lagway Era and the Gators bounce back win against Samford.
- Turning point (1:40)
- Thumbs up: DJ Lagway (3:15)
- Thumbs down (5:02)
- Game ball (8:06)
- Biggest concern (9:44)
- Reason for optimism (12:36)
- On the spot (15:29)
- Billie’s banter (17:17)
- Locker room view (21:24)
- Final thought (27:27)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Golf (29:50)
Florida’s head coach is squarely on the hot seat. Another poor showing could spell the end early in his third season. The good news for Napier’s Gators is Samford visits the Swamp Saturday. It’s the only gimme on the nation’s toughest schedule and a chance for a feel-good win. Gator Nation is going to need a lot more to feel warm and fuzzy for Napier. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss yet another regime that has gone off the rails, this time at an unprecedented clip.
- Ready to move on from Billy Napier (:00)
- Steve Spurrier and Urban Meyer speak out (3:10)
- Betting on Napier (6:02)
- September firings (9:11)
- Graham Mertz injured (12:48)
- Need to have an edge (17:09)
- Does Napier make it to Week 3? (19:15)
- DJ Lagway takes field (23:06)
- Win or lose, Napier gone? (24:46)
- Scott Stricklin’s fate (27:43)
- Players dropping (30:52)
- Looking the part (34:40)
- 3 things to see (42:54)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (47:23)
Florida’s third season under Napier could not have gotten off to a worse start than a 41-17 drubbing in the Swamp by in-state rival Miami. The Gators were beaten on both sides of the ball in every way possible. Napier’s offseason overhaul, optimism and assurances fell as flat as his offense. Talk of a much-improved defense proved to be false hopes and empty words. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark keep it real discussing Napier’s worst loss and potentially the beginning of the end of his time in Gainesville.
- Billy Napier over sold and under delivered (:00)
- Turning point (7:15)
- Thumbs up (11:45)
- Thumbs down (14:14)
- Second guess(19:53)
- Biggest concern (27:51)
- Reason for optimism (30:20)
- On the spot (32:40)
- Billy’s banter (35:07)
- Defining move (39:49)
- Final thought (42:24)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:25)
The stakes and emotions will be high when Billy Napier’s Gators and Mario Cristobal’s Hurricanes square off Saturday in the Swamp. The game matches once-proud programs in need of a strong start to pivotal seasons. Predictions, speculation and a long offseason will soon be over. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar chop it up one last time before talking season 2024 mercifully comes to an end.
- Intrigue and the unknown (:00)
- Reason for optimism (6:33)
- Reason for pessimism (11:08)
- Offensive matchup (16:23)
- Defensive matchup (19:03)
- Wild card (21:46)
- What are you hearing? (25:36)
- Florida/Miami rivalry (30:10)
- Final thoughts (45:15)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (49:20)
The Gators’ season-opening visit from Miami will begin to answer the questions swirling around coach Billy Napier and his program. Besides Napier, what players and assistants are on the spot? Is Miami the biggest game of a pivotal season? What has Napier done to impress and what does he have to do to survive? During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark provide some answers.
- Biggest non-conference game (:00)
- Biggest conference game (10:00)
- Offensive player (12:56)
- Offensive assistant/analyst (18:18)
- Encouraged by Billy Napier’s… (24:12)
- Want to see out of Napier (25:40)
- Final record prediction (32:09)
- Men’s basketball (35:59)
- Join Billy Napier’s Army (38:41)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (40:55)
Florida enters the final days of fall camp with competition at its highest level under Billy Napier. The Gators’ depth has helped them weather top tailback Montrell Johnson Jr.’s knee injury. The team’s leading rusher in 2022 and 2023 is on the mend, but will he be ready for Miami? Having more options also requires difficult decisions. Napier calls it a “good problem to have.” In the coming week, he and his staff will have to put together the pieces to position the Gators to beat the Canes. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar try to keep pace during the homestretch of the preseason.
- On the mend (2:00)
- Defensive line (11:11)
- QBs Graham Mertz & DJ Lagway (18:13)
- Tim Tebow interview (21:00)
- Offensive line (25:11)
- Billy Napier on scrimmage (29:47)
- Steve Spurrier on limiting access (32:39)
- Biggest curiosities (35:28)
- Hardest schedule in the country (39:47)
- Jaden Rashada lawsuit update (42:45)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Olympic gold (48:20)
The Gators are entering the throes of preseason practices as competition heats up for starting roles. Tailback was a position already locked up, but top rusher Montrell Johnson Jr. is sidelined by a minor knee injury. His timeline is TBD a little more than three weeks before a season-opening visit from Miami. The Gators’ depth and talent will be tested at a critical spot, but Billy Napier is confident he has the roster and culture to overcome obstacles. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark catch up on the opening week of camp and what lies ahead.
- DJ Lagway (0:00)
- Key injury (4:40)
- Fighting for starting positions (9:52)
- Elijhah Badger factor (14:00)
- Challenging the team (16:27)
- Bill Napier’s culture (32:57)
- Billy Donovan visit (40:32)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Olympics (43:36)
College football season has officially arrived. Florida staged Media Day Tuesday on the eve of the opening of fall camp Wednesday. Billy Napier sent out four coaches, two of them in new roles and two staff newcomers. More than 30 new players hit the field a day later as the Gators pushed to capitalize on the many changes after a 5-7 season. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar weigh in on how all the moves might translate to the field.
- Media Day: Billy Napier sets tone (:00)
- Fresh faces: New coaches (4:36)
- Napier starting over in Year 3 (6:45)
- A humble start (8:40)
- Coach Callaway yin yang (15:31)
- Bigger, stronger, faster (20:32)
- Coach Roberts: The Godfather (28:05)
- Joe Houston to revive special teams (32:22)
- Open practice takeaways (39:58)
- Best program in country coming after UF (42:49)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Olympics (45:48)
Florida football practice opens July 31 during a pivotal Year 3 for Billy Napier. Expectations rarely have been this low, but the Gators are eager to prove nay-sayers wrong. Meanwhile, the Paris Olympics begin with a record 40 athletes with UF ties at the Games. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss whether the Gators’ high hopes ring true or are fool’s gold.
- Gators: Doom and gloom (:00)
- Gators: On the brighter side (3:44)
- Calling the plays (5:30)
- All-SEC team and Graham Mertz (8:16)
- Gators are stronger, faster, bigger (13:25)
- EA Sports with DJ Lagway, Montrell Johnson (18:20)
- Practice starting but little media access (22:44)
- Breaking down Gator potential (27:13)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Olympics (44:11)
The 2024 football season unofficially began at SEC Media Days. Billy Napier and the Gators were optimistic and stuck to the script amid a sea of skeptics. But the week’s big surprise was the sudden retirement of UF president Ben Sasse because of his wife’s health issues. The native of Nebraska quickly became an ardent Gators fan and was sure to have a say in Napier’s future. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar returned from a hiatus, ready for the start of fall camp at month’s end.
- SEC Media Days takeways (:00)
- UF players present (6:05)
- Will Billy Napier be hero or zero? (9:00)
- Trevor Etienne and MontrelllJohnson (14:15)
- Texas & Oklahoma to SEC (19:18)
- SEC experts on UF (26:80)
- Breaking down Florida’s schedule (28:57)
- UF president stepping down (33:25)
- MLB Draft (39:44)
Florida’s slow progress on the recruiting trail picked up pace with the commitment of West Broward receiver Joshua Moore, who credited DJ Lagway with luring him to Gainesville. Billy Napier does not shun a helping hand, positioning the Gators to capitalize on the NCAA ruling to allow analysts to coach the field. Meanwhile, the Florida-Georgia game will have to find a home in 2026-27, but it won’t be Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. A Gators-Bulldogs matchup in the Swamp would be something to see. Where does the Gators’ home field rank in college football? During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark stand up and holler about a variety of topics.
- Florida beating out instate rivals (:00)
- DJ Lagway (6:10)
- Billy Napier’s army of support (12:11)
- Beyah Rasool (18:33)
- Learfield Directors’ Cup (23:08)
- Code Red: Lawsuit settlement (30:19)
- Future of Florida/Georgia game (32:31)
- EA Sports ranks stadiums (37:50)
- Baseball (45:15)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:18)
Home run king Jac Caglianone’s place in UF history is secure after he led the Gators’ unexpected postseason run. Does Cags belong on Mark and Edgar’s Gators’ Mt. Rushmore? Who makes their top 10? Speaking of lists: what are the top-5 highs and lows of 2023-24. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark lean on their 20-plus years around the program to present their cases.
- Gators in College World Series (:00)
- The future of the team (8:30)
- Mount Rushmore of Gator athletes (12:10)
- 2023-24 highlights (19:20)
- 2023-24 lowlights (30:52)
- Jermey Foley’s Corner: Track and field (43:45)
The Gators’ baseball team is the last UF program still going after an improbable run to the College World Series. Along the way, Jac Caglianone has left no doubt he’s the program’s greatest slugger — and among the best all time. Mike Holloway’s place in the coach pantheon was already secure, yet Florida’s three-peat in men’s track and field and Parker Valby’s dominance furthered the Gators’ reputation as the sport’s gold standard. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark try to keep pace.
- College World Series (:00)
- Golden Spikes Award (13:15)
- Track and field (17:00)
- Softball (25:20)
- Football: Franchise QBs? (31:26)
- Is Billie Napier turning things around? (37:00)
- U.S. Open (42:19)
Last week’s SEC Spring Meetings in Destin painted a challenging financial future, even for a UF program among the nation’s healthiest and wealthiest. Coach Billy Napier will likely have to adjust his master plan due to the inevitable revenue increases and cost-cutting measures spurred by the House v. NCAA $2.77 billion settlement. Amid important discussions and decisions about what’s to come, June is the time to shine for the nation’s top baseball and softball programs. After a forgettable season, the Gators advanced to the Super Regionals in baseball for the 10th time under Kevin O’Sullivan. Meanwhile, Tim Walton’s softball program reached its first WCWS semifinal since 2017. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the Gators’ postseason success and the uncertainty surrounding college athletics.
- Baseball (:00)
- Softball (12:44)
- Football: Cutting costs, increasing revenue (23:00)
- Selling sponsorships on field/uniforms (28:27)
- Stadium improvements are key (37:44)
- Cut staff, trim rosters? (39:59)
- UF President Sasse embraces “Rudy” (50:58)
- Title IX: Compensation model (53:48)
- Collectives should go away but won’t (56:01)
- 2025 College Football Hall of Fame candidates (57:38)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Mike Holloway (1:03:09)
Football coach Billy Napier and UF’s administration thought they finally could move on from former signee Jaden Rashada and his representatives. Not so fast. On Tuesday, the 20-year-old sophomore already with this third school filed a lawsuit against Napier, mega-booster Hugh Hathcock and others seeking more than $10 million in damages. The suit might be a frivolous money grab, but places a negative national spotlight on a football program finally gaining some positive momentum in Year 3 under Napier. The suit also detracts from a week when the Gators are shining in several other sports. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark turn legal eagles to address the latest twist of the never-ending saga.
- Jaden Rashada lawsuit: Initial thoughts (:00)
- How we got here (5:40)
- Going after those with deep pockets (13:09)
- Drama, drama, drama (17:16)
- Gators on the hook for something? (18:50)
- Good luck convincing a jury (21:00)
- What is Billy Napier’s defense? (25:23)
- How do you not alienate Hugh Hathcock (29:32)
- Beyond Wild, Wild West (33:12)
- Does this set precedent for other atheletes? (35:26)
- Baseball tournament (37:31)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (40:09)
It’s that time of year for the Gators, when Florida’s Olympic sports seize center stage. Parker Valby put on a show in the 5,000 at SEC track and field championships, lacrosse is Final Four bound, men’s golf pushes to defend its 2023 national title and softball is poised for another deep postseason run. Baseball is the only struggling spring sport, but Jac Caglianone is giving fans something to celebrate. After a long hiatus, Mark and Edgar return to discuss it all, along with a little football and hoops, during a robust edition of Swamp Things.
- Football loss (:52)
- Absurd staffing (8:39)
- Billy Napier building depth (10:42)
- Settlement coming (19:33)
- Stadium naming rights (26:11)
- Track and Field (28:59)
- Baseball (38:12)
- Women’s lacrosse (42:46)
- Softball (50:05)
- Men’s basketball (54:12)
- Sports information news (58:45)
Basketball coach Todd Golden’s roster overhaul picked up the pace, highlighted by the arrival of FAU guard Alijah Martin. Billy Napier’s first week in the transfer portal was quieter, but time remains for the Gators to fill some gaps. The real drama involved former quarterback recruit Jaden Rashada, who is on the move again. Meanwhile, slugger Jac Caglione is moving up the school’s all-time home runs lists, while serving as a bright spot for Kevin O’Sullivan’s struggling squad. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark step up to the plate to deliver insight and opinion on a cornucopia of topics.
- Men’s basketball: NBA dreams ended (:51)
- Intrigued by latest transfer (6:51)
- Boozer twins visiting (10:41)
- Football: Jaden Rashada back on market (13:07)
- Future of transfer portal (15:09)
- In need of receiver help (19:08)
- Big and physical up front (21:39)
- Billy Napier on Graham Mertz (24:03)
- Napier on play calling (28:50)
- Baseball: Any hope for Sully’s squad? (39:17)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (42:29)
Florida’s spring game was an improvement on 2023 and gave fans their first look at Billy Napier’s 2024 team. Those on hand left with reasons for optimism entering the offseason of a pivotal Year 3. Meanwhile, Todd Golden picked up his first commit, Chattanooga transfer Sam Alexis of Apopka, as he restocks UF’s roster during a busy offseason. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar share their many takeaways from the spring game and discuss the challenge of coaching basketball in the age of the transfer portal.
- Blue beat Orange 19-17 (:00)
- Players that stood out (4:23)
- DJ Lagway raised level of play (9:23)
- Jadan Baugh & George Gumbs show promise (11:26)
- Billy being Billy (18:13)
- Offensive line looked impressive (21:00)
- Special Teams woes (23:33)
- Reality checks: Exit interviews (27:26)
- Men’s basketball (35:11)
- Women’s basketball (39:00)
- Baseball (40:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (42:46)
Florida’s spring game is set for Saturday in the Swamp. Fans get their first chance to see the Gators in action following a 5-7 season and sweeping offseason changes to Billy Napier’s roster and staff. While spring football nears the finish line, the college basketball concluded with UConn and South Carolina living up to the hype and potentially establishing dynasties. Meanwhile, John Calipari left behind one of the game’s bluebloods at Kentucky to stay a step ahead of the posse in Big Blue Nation. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar try to stay a step ahead to provide insight into what to look for this weekend.
- Spring Game: Billy Napier goals (:00)
- Receiving core (6:00)
- Returners to watch (11:47)
- True freshmen to watch (15:44)
- DJ Lagway struggles (18:26)
- Transfer expectations (20:52)
- Get fanbase excited (24:54)
- NCAA Tournament (29:50)
- Growth of women’s basketball (37:30)
- Baseball (40:10)
- Coaching moves (45:50)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (51:20)
Florida football is amid a two-week stretch Billy Napier calls “critical” to his program’s turnaround. The Gators have two scrimmages, including the spring game, to sharpen their focus entering the offseason. Meanwhile, the biggest weekend in college basketball takes center stage, with UConn looking to become the first back-to-back champion since the 2006 and 2007 Gators. But Iowa’s Caitlin Clark has stolen the show during March Madness and helped elevate the women’s games to new heights. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark try to bring their A game ahead of a big sports weekend.
- Critical 2-week stretch (1:02)
- DJ Lagway vs Graham Mertz (4:04)
- Billy Napier needs to get fans excited (15:54)
- Ricky Pearsall replacement? (19:56)
- Chimere Dike’s role (25:14)
- Mr. Intensity (30:45)
- Biggest weekend college basketball (33:37)
- Women’s sports (51:23)
- Baseball (59:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (1:02:00)
Kugel returned to school expected to be a star. Instead, he endured a stunning sophomore slump ending with his much-anticipated transfer less than week after UF’s NCAA Tournament loss. Todd Golden now pushes to match last spring’s transfer portal success and maintain the Gators’ upward trajectory. Meanwhile, Billy Napier’s squad will stage its first spring scrimmage with an overhauled staff and roster. Across campus, Tim Walton’s softball program is back to it winning ways as SEC play heats up. Mark and Edgar bring the heat on various fronts during a busy time for the Gators.
- Riley Kugel moving on (:00)
- What does Todd Golden need to do? (14:31)
- Finding funding to fill court (25:25)
- Napier putting pieces together (31:44)
- Players that look the part (36:11)
- Stop with excuses (40:53)
- Trevor Etienne 'teaching moments' (44:51)
- Jeremy Foley's Corner (49:31)
Florida is back in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in three years and capable of a deep run if the pieces fall into place as Todd Golden’s team looks to continue the program’s Year 2 turnaround. Back in Gainesville, the Gators’ Pro Day was an all-time dud, highlighting the lack of depth Billy Napier inherited from Dan Mullen. Meanwhile, Jenny Rowland’s gymnastics program remains as steady as any on campus and heads to the SEC Championships seeking a three-peat. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark look to stick the landing while discussing another busy week for the Gators.
- NCAA Tournament (1:28)
- Gators could make run or lose in 1st round (7:08)
- Mismatch in Gator’s favor (12:13)
- X factors: Riley Kugal and Will Richard (16:07)
- Iowa Women’s Basketball: Caitlin Clark (19:03)
- UF’s Pro Day (26:02)
- Billy Napier’s staff (35:51)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (47:45)
Florida is all-in on coaches Todd Golden and Billy Napier, giving Golden a contract extension on the eve of the SEC tournament and increasing the recruiting budget 45% for Napier’s football program. Golden has revived the men’s basketball program and re-energized the fan base. A postseason run would punctuate the Gators’ direction. Resources have never been the problem with Napier. Results have been. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar try to make sense of all the dollars being invested.
- Todd Golden rewarded (:00) Men’s basketball getting it done (6:45) Football: Recruiting budget (14:50) Assistant coach contracts (21:16) Spring football (26:13) Pro Day (32:58) DEI programs cut (39:07) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (43:50)
Billy Napier’s third season in Gainesville is unofficially underway with the start of spring football practices. During the next six weeks, a remade roster and staff will push to turn the page on consecutive losing seasons and search for answers, leaders, playmakers and momentum. Meanwhile, Todd Golden’s Gators are ahead of schedule and poised to make a postseason statement. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark have plenty to say during the start of a big month for Florida’s two premiere programs.
- Billy Napier optimistic (:35)
- Insight into Napier (5:50)
- Graham Mertz getting comfortable (9:56)
- Chimere Dike and receiving core (14:29)
- New strength coach (22:08)
- Criticism mounting (34:02)
- What is end game? (42:27)
- Men’s basketball (44:10)
- Women’s basketball (48:17)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (48:46)
Florida reached 20 wins in men’s basketball for the first time since 2018 as Todd Golden’s program pushes to make a postseason run. But with three regular-season games to go, the Gators continue to show a lack of killer instinct while the mystery of Riley Kugel continues. Meanwhile, Billy Napier’s third season in Gainesville begins in earnest with the opening spring practices March 7. UF will have many new faces and faces plenty of questions as Napier aims to set a new course for his struggling program. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar tackle plenty of topics during a busy time for the Gators.
- O’Dome stench (0:00)
- Gators defeat Missouri (9:30)
- Riley Kugel mystery (12:00)
- Billy Napier’s Herculean task (18:10)
- Ben Sasse’s thoughts (24:58)
- Off-season attrition (29:10)
- DJ Lagway concern (31:11)
- Other storylines (34:47)
- NFL combine (38:36)
- Napier’s absence (42:40)
- Fixing college football (49:30)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (1:01:32)
Florida’s upset bid in men’s basketball came up short in overtime at Alabama. Coach Todd Golden’s squad let a golden opportunity slip away, but the Gators have found their stride with March Madness on the horizon. Meanwhile, Billy Napier’s program will kick off spring football in two weeks with 30 new players and a retooled staff. After spending a week reporting from the Daytona 500, Mark and Edgar return for the latest Swamp Things to catch up with all the Gators’ goings-on, including a deluge of spring sports.
- NASCAR: Daytona 500 (:00)
- Men’s basketball (4:29)
- Gator Football: Staff churn (8:46)
- Coaches managing players (18:00)
- Coaching possibilities (23:04)
- Florida Victorious selling itself (29:30)
- Recruit playing the game (43:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (49:10)
The early signing period has devalued National Signing Day on the first week of February. Even though the Gators didn’t add to the 2024 class, Billy Napier had plenty to discuss following offseason changes to virtually every aspect of his program. Something had to give after consecutive losing seasons. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss Napier’s many moves and whether it will be enough to turn around the Gators.
- Billy Napier speaks: Was it worth the wait? (:00)
- Coaching staff (3:54)
- Portal additions (7:03)
- Napier giving up control (10:10)
- Most intriguing prospects (16:23)
- Changes to program (19:28)
- Jaden Rashada investigation (20:23)
- Funding NIL (23:05)
- Longterm viability of college football (27:23)
- Super Bowl: 4 Gators (35:33)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (40:07)
Florida’s upset at Kentucky in men’s basketball gave Todd Golden a much-needed signature win and supercharged the Gators’ NCAA Tournament resumé. Wins at Rupp Arena don’t come easily. Prior to Wednesday, UF had won just 10 times in 50 visits to Lexington since 1974. Napier’s last trip to Kentucky ended with a 33-14 beat down, one of 14 losses in his two seasons. Poor special teams play is one of the reasons. Napier aimed to address the issue by hiring Joe Houston from the NFL, but still retained the man in charge the past two seasons. In the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the state of Golden and Napier’s programs while also paying tribute to Tampa columnist Martin Fennelly, a premiere talent and longtime Gators’ commentator gone too soon.
- Men’s basketball: Win at Kentucky (:00)
- Upcoming games (11:11)
- Football: Special teams hire (17:20)
- Tennessee’s NIL mess (24:55)
- Staff changes on horizon (27:29)
- National Signing Day (32:43)
- Money, money, money (35:12)
- Billy Napier: Hot topics (38:21)
- Portal individual rankings (40:08)
- Death of a colleague: Martin Fennelly (46:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Baseball (53:11)
A year after Florida made national headlines and the Billy Napier’s NIL approach became a punchline, news surfaced that a failed $13.8 million deal with Rashada is under NCAA scrutiny. But will the slow wheels of justice ultimately impact the football program? Otherwise, it’s been a good week for Napier’s Gators, who continue to acquire talent in key areas as the third-year pushes to turn around his program. Meanwhile, Year 2 under men’s basketball coach Todd Golden is gaining traction entering a visit from former coach Mike White’s Georgia Bulldogs before a rematch with Kentucky at Rupp Arena. In the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark weigh in on the past week’s events.
- Jaden Rashada strikes again (:00)
- Cause for Billy Napier’s termination? (11:03)
- Jameer Grimsley transfer (18:20)
- Where’s the loyalty? (23:54)
- NIL clawback (28:19)
- Florida remains behind in NIL (31:15)
- Hunting for money (36:26)
- Men’s basketball (37:24)
- Women’s basketball (42:18)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Women’s gymnastics (44:39)
By virtually any measure, Billy Napier entered 2024 squarely on the hot seat after consecutive losing seasons and a substandard brand of football. Florida AD Scott Stricklin disagrees and passionately backs the coach he hired to turn around the Gators. Will Stricklin be the one who ultimately decides Napier’s fate? During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar agree Stricklin has to stand by his man but wonder whether Napier’s approach to the transfer portal relative to the Gators’ competition is the latest red flag.
- Scott Stricklin on Billy Napier (:00)
- Adjusting coaching staff (8:05)
- Need to bring in better talent (10:00)
- Rumors flying about Stricklin (18:36)
- Using the portal (23:57)
- Men’s basketball (29:40)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (39:47)
The GOAT is gone. Alabama coach Nick Saban’s retirement rocked the college football world to kick off a year shaping up to be unlike any other in moden college football. Add the exit of the face of the sport to a list including an expanded College Football playoff, SEC, ACC and Big Ten expansion and efforts to legislate NIL. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss Saban’s impact on Florida football, his decision’s trickle-down effect on the SEC and whether Billy Napier can earn a spot on the 72-year-old’s illustrious coaching tree.
- Nick Saban/Bill Belichick (:00)
- Saban retirement’s impact on Gators (10:03)
- Recruiting questions (14:54)
- Napier still has time to recruit (19:02)
- Hard to be optimistic about Gators (26:17)
- Napier’s coaching staff (29:30)
- Lost opportunity to rally support (33:45)
- Men’s basketball (40:01)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (44:57)
A new year brings new hope for Florida football. Coming off a 5-7 season and 11-14 overall, Billy Napier has to sell the future. It begins with 5-star quarterback signee DJ Lagway, one of three incoming Gators who played during the recent Under Armour All-American game, a half-dozen newcomers from the transfer portal and some new staff additions. After a 15-day holiday hiatus, Mark and Edgar aim to bring the big picture into focus while also discussing a huge weekend in Gators’ hoops.
- Signing Day: 3 to 13 (1:22)
- Under Armour: DJ Lagway sprain (2:13)
- Earnest Graham drama (9:48)
- Player access has to change (18:40)
- Timing of game (28:13)
- Filling holes (29:38)
- Pup Howard buzz (32:26)
- Athletes leaving/returning (35:30)
- Napier still making calls (48:30)
- Bowl system debacle (56:10)
- Jeremy Foley’ s Corner (1:01)
- Another enters portal (1:07)
Florida’s 2024 class didn’t turn out to be what it could have been but might have been more than it should have been after another losing season in Gainesville. A pair of 5-star prospects, quarterback DJ Lagway and defensive lineman LJ McCray, headlined a class that settled at a respectable No. 16 in the ranking after it peaked at No. 3 prior to a 5-7 campaign. Despite losing six top-150 players since November, there is plenty to like about the group Napier and Co. signed. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar dig in on the details of a pivotal day for the Gators and a coach squarely on the hot seat entering Year 3.
- Signing Day: More drama than ever (:00)
- They filled a lot of holes (4:16)
- Not terrible, but not great (8:25)
- Billy Napier’s thoughts (16:20)
- Coaching moves (23:51)
- Offensive line positives (26:20)
- Is Billy officially on the hot seat? (31:35)
- Only 5 signed from state of Florida (38:34)
- DJ Lagway (48:22)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (57:24)
The Gators’ 2024 schedule was going to be difficult, however it shook out. But the SEC did UFno favors, saddling Napier with a November featuring five games against teams currently ranked in the top 13 of the College Football Playoff rankings. A coach already feeling the heat now will have to navigate one of the toughest slate in school history, culminating with a closing month without compare. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark break down the schedule, look ahead to Signing Day and continue to discuss a pivotal offseason.
- SEC releases schedules (1:07)
- Nov. 23: Fire Billy and Lane stays (3:42)
- Nov. 23: Beat Lane Train to stop chatter (9:12)
- 11th-hour flips (14:25)
- Transfer portal (17:58)
- The path forward: Promising pieces (25:37)
- Signing Day (32:15)
- Urban Meyer: ‘Don’t panic’ (33:24)
- Willy Korn to UF? (35:57)
- Billy on hot seat (38:28)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:20)
UF hired Napier for his ability to identify talent and build a roster as much as coaching acumen. The time has arrived for the 44-year-old to prove he was worth his $7 million-plus salary. The transfer portal opened Monday, National Signing Day is in less than two weeks, the Gators roster and staff is in limbo, and rumors are flying throughout college football. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar do their best to keep up and keep listeners in the loop.
- Rumor, intrigue & innuendo (:00)
- Will Harris replace Corey Raymond? (6:27)
- Portal: Path to NFL (14:50)
- Uncertainty of defensive line (18:45)
- Trevor Etienne entering portal? (19:39)
- Graham Mertz will be back (26:59)
- Portal hasn’t been great for Gators (31:55)
- Recruiting class (35:46)
- Reining in NIL (44:01)
- Edgar victorious in picks (46:13)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (47:43)
Coach Billy Napier didn’t waste much time shaking up his staff following a season-ending loss to FSU, jettisoning two veteran defensive assistants. A handful of players also made known their futures known as the week unfolded. It’s just the beginning of a hectic, critical stretch as Napier aims to get the Gators on track after going 11-14 his first two seasons. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break down the recent moves, what’s to come and will it be enough.
- Timetable has change (:00)
- Coaches leaving (6:32)
- Players on the move (16:18)
- How to get players/coaches to come to UF (27:30)
- Game picks (34:30)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (38:00)
The Gators’ 24-15 loss to their rival Seminoles in the Swamp dropped UF to 5-7 and left coach Billy Napier 11-14 after two seasons in Gainesville. He is now on the clock entering a critical offseason. Napier must rebuild his staff and roster, finetune his messaging and regain the confidence of Gator Nation. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss the merciful end to miserable season and whether Napier is the right man to resurrect the Gators.
- How does 2023 season compare? (:00)
- Better off not making bowl game (3:37)
- Are Gators regressing? (6:12)
- Can Napier pull a rabbit out of his hat? (9:54)
- Turning point (12:40)
- Thumbs up (16:27)
- Thumbs down (21:15)
- Second-guess (23:06)
- Game ball (27:44)
- Billy’s banter (32:25)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (35:40)
The 2023 Gators’ goals are long gone, but Billy Napier’s squad still has plenty to play for against the rival Seminoles. UF pushes to avoid a losing season while cutting the Noles down to size and ending their College Football Playoff hopes. Two backup quarterbacks forced into action are among the many storylines Mark and Edgar address on a Thanksgiving eve edition of Swamp Things.
- QB issues (:00)
- FSU moved to #5 (2:00)
- QB Mertz to Brown (3:48)
- Coaches in very different places (7;29)
- FSU far ahead of UF (10:50)
- The great equalizer: The Swamp (14:01)
- Simplify plan (18:03)
- SEC football picks (21:46)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (25:25)
The Gators’ last-second loss was tough to take for Billy Napier’s team. Florida had a late lead and a chance to close the deal at Columbia, but could not make the plays or avoid mental mistakes when it mattered. UF now looks to end a four-game skid at the expense of rival FSU in a sold-out Swamp. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break down what went right and wrong at Mizzou as the Gators prepare to upset the unbeaten Seminoles.
- Painful loss (:00)
- Turning point (4:14)
- Thumbs up (9:20)
- Thumbs down (11:59)
- Second-guess (18:47)
- Game ball (24:58)
- Biggest concern (27:20)
- On the spot (31:35)
- Recruiting (40:00)
- Locker room view (44:23)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (47:50)
The chance for a winning season is fleeting for Billy Napier’s team. In fact, finishing above .500 is a likely pipe dream at this point. A visit to surging and surprising Mizzou poses challenges on multiple fronts from the Tigers’ balanced attack, a defense with talent at all three levels, a clutch placekicker and a November chill with temperatures in 30s. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark wonder whether the Gators can continue to fight, keep it close and just maybe salvage their season with an upset.
- Travel bumps (:00)
- Recruits flip (4:19)
- How to keep class intact (7:14)
- A look at Missouri (11:50)
- Coaching contracts (16:09)
- On track for losing season (24:40)
- How to win (27:20)
- Freezing in Missouri (34:00)
- SEC football picks (37:50)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (44:45)
The Gators were left to lick their wounds and pick up the pieces after failing to keep up in a shootout at Tiger Stadium. Billy Napier’s squad showed fight and offensive spark against LSU, but UF’s reeling defense could not keep up with Daniels as he supercharged his Heisman campaign. Edgar and Mark unpack the LSU loss during the latest Swamp Things.
- Turning points (3:24)
- Thumbs up (8:42)
- Thumbs down (11:49)
- Second-guess (17:44)
- Game ball (22:02)
- Biggest concern (25:45)
- On the spot (34:00)
- Billy’s banter (36:24)
- SEC coaches dropping (42:49)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (49:37)
Billy Napier’s team pushes to bounce back from a disheartening home loss to Arkansas with an upset win under the lights at LSU. The Gators are 14.5-point underdogs facing the SEC’s top offense and toughest environment - a night game in Tiger Stadium. Star quarterback Jayden Daniels (concussion) is expected to play and continue his Heisman Trophy campaign. Florida is going to have to play its best game, if not a perfect one, to leave Baton Rouge. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the Gators’ upset possibilities and path to victory.
- Bowl eligibility still on the line (:50)
- Napier has to be aggressive (7:38)
- A look back at rivalry (9:24)
- Biggest challenge (15:05)
- Key matchup (18:44)
- Path to victory (25:24)
- Napier’s demeanor shifts (28:15)
- Seeking out advise (37:12)
- SEC football picks (42:39)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (47:13)
Florida’s overtime loss to Arkansas reverberated 48 hours later. Napier was eager to move on, even if questions remained about the Gators continued special teams miscues, game management and lost opportunity. There is no avoiding what’s next: a three-game meat grinder beginning with Saturday’s visit to Tiger Stadium. With a losing season a distinct possibility, Mark and Edgar chop it up during the latest Swamp Things.
- Turning point of game (2:22)
- Thumbs up (5:30)
- Thumbs down (10:45)
- Second-guess (16:00)
- Game balls (19:43)
- Biggest concern (23:12)
- On the spot (27:00)
- Billy’s banter (31:03)
- Locker room view (36:57)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (39:53)
The Gators will host the Razorbacks in a sold-out Swamp with their best chance for a win during a daunting November. Arkansas is winless in SEC, but not an easy out, either. Of the Hogs’ six losses, five were by one possession. This is a can’t-loss game for Florida and coach Billy Napier, given the final three games are visits to LSU and Missouri followed by a Nov. 25 home date with Florida State. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark break down Saturday’s matchup and what lies ahead for the Gators.
- Bowl eligibility (:00)
- Arkansas: Woeful defense and bad offense (2:31)
- Jacksonville field (3:24)
- Brutal November(13:10)
- UF's offensive line (19:50)
- Roster management (35:52)
- Black uniforms (39:54)
- Dabo Swinney rant (47:45)
- SEC football picks (50:50)
The Gators’ struggles against the Bulldogs continued as a fast start fizzled and Kirby Smart’s squad capitalized on a slew of unforced errors. UF’s third straight loss and sixth in seven meetings was another reminder of the work ahead for Billy Napier’s program. For now, the Gators will focus on the regular-season’s final month, beginning with Saturday’s visit from Arkansas. Florida looks to secure bowl eligibility and gain some confidence before a daunting three-game stretch at LSU, at Missouri and Nov. 25 at home against Florida State. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar recall the Gators’ dark day in Jacksonville and discuss some bright spots entering November.
- Saturday was a bloodbath (2:08)
- Turning point of the game (5:18)
- Second-guesses (13:06)
- Thumbs up (18:30)
- Thumbs down (20:49)
- Game ball (23:33)
- On the spot (25:45)
- Burning question (28:40)
- Billy’s banter (32:20)
- Media moment (42:04)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:25)
Losers of two straight and five of six, the Gators are on the wrong end of their long-standing rivalry with the Bulldogs. Few expect the tide to turn Saturday against Kirby Smart’s top-ranked team, a 14.5-point favorite. The Bulldogs have looked vulnerable, yet remain formidable even without star tight end Brock Bowers. An upset would shake the college football world and supercharge Billy Napier’s rebuild. A respectable showing is imperative for a Florida program beginning to gain some traction. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark break down the matchup, its implications and the Gators’ chances.
- Gator path to victory (:39)
- What would win mean to Gators? (11:43)
- No one expecting Florida to win (21:59)
- ESPN features UF (27:08)
- Men’s basketball (36:39)
- SEC football picks (39:47)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (45:10)
Florida has some momentum coming off a bye week while Billy Napier’s beleaguered offense showed promise during wins against Vanderbilt and South Carolina. The Gators now prepare for a massive step up against their rival Bulldogs, winners of 24 straight including a pair of one-sided wins against UF. Kirby Smart’s team will be without star tight end Brock Bowers while his defense is not as formidable as recent editions. Yet the Dawgs remain the SEC’s gold standard and the Gators’ toughest test. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss Florida’s upset chances and Napier’s continued success on the recruiting trail.
- Can Florida keep up with Georgia? (2:00)
- Billy Napier looks at past as he plans future (6:32)
- How valuable is Brock Bowers? (10:00)
- Measuring stick game (19:12)
- Protecting Graham Mertz (22:24)
- Recruiting, NIL, facilities closing gap (24:54)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (33:38)
The Gators beat a team they were supposed to beat for a much-needed win heading into the bye week. Billy Napier’s offense was aggressive to the final minute, erasing a 10-point deficit to stun South Carolina. The question is whether it’s a sign of things to come or a career day for Graham Mertz against the SEC’s worst pass defense. An Oct. 28 date with Georgia in Jacksonville is sure to provide some answers. But a game that appeared to be virtually unwinnable is suddenly a little less daunting given the news All-American tight end Brock Bowers is out with an ankle injury. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark reflect on UF’s big road win and look ahead to a season-ending gantlet.
- Get the road woes off their back (:48)
- Georgias’ Brock Bowers out (2:25)
- Graham Mertz is a gamer (9:01)
- Standout players (11:58)
- Defensive concerns (15:35)
- Trey Smack can win games (22:47)
- Nice play designs (28:02)
- Billy Napier can’t stay with what he’s doing (29:59)
- Next 5 games … (36:17)
- SEC football picks + (42:57)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:41)
Florida heads to South Carolina looking for a rare road win under Billy Napier, whose Gators are 1-7 away from Gainesville. The Gamecocks can be tough to beat at underrated Williams-Brice Stadium, but Shane Beamer’s squad has struggled on both sides of the ball and appears vulnerable. Quarterback Graham Mertz and Co. look to capitalize on the SEC’s worst defense while Austin Armstrong’s D will give chase to Gamecocks QB Spencer Rattler. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break down Florida’s final game before the bye week.
- Florida heads to South Carolina (:28)
- Keepers? (3:59)
- On-the-road prep (9:23)
- Bad South Carolina team (14:43)
- Struggling with road games (24:40)
- Graham Mertz (28:24)
- Biggest disappointments (35:20)
- SEC football picks (39:05)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Basketball (46:27)
The Gators took care of business with a homecoming win against the Commodores. The win moved Billy Napier’s team a step closer to bowl eligibility. UF now must prove it can win away from the Swamp. South Carolina might present the Gators their best chance during the season’s second half unless Florida’s offense can become more explosive and the defense more opportunistic. During latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark seize the opportunity to discuss the state of the Gators.
- The final gimme on the schedule (:25)
- Graham Mertz taking a beating (3:59)
- Offensive line (8:13)
- Arlis Boardingham (11:02)
- Eugene Wilson III (14:07)
- Billy Napier’s bag of tricks (17:00)
- Coaching gaffes (30:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (44:09)
The Gators look to put the Kentucky loss behind them in the comfy confines of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. A homecoming visit from the struggling Commodores could be the perfect antidote for a team nursing key injuries and bruised confidence. Vanderbilt’s 31-24 upset win in 2022 was the low point of Billy Napier’s debut season at UF. The Gators are 18.5-point favorites, have lost just one at home to Vanderbilt since 1945 and could use a convincing win. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the state of the Gators as the season’s midpoint arrives.
- Vandy is must-win game (:26)
- Insane coach salaries (7:12)
- Billy Napier ready to turn the page (13:26)
- Gator injuries (17:56)
- Regaining confidence & finding identity (20:59)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (38:20)
- SEC Football picks (47:16)
The No. 22 Gators hit the road to Kentucky and ran into the Big Blue Wall during the most troubling performance during Napier’s two seasons. Nothing went right during the Gators’ 33-14 loss, raising continued concerns with Napier’s offense and UF’s special teams while also spotlighting deficiencies on a much-improved defense. The performance has many wondering about the program’s direction. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark shed light on a path forward and serve as a voice of reason during a tense time in Gator Nation.
- Where do you go from here? (:20)
- Billy Napier needs to change his philosophy (7:50)
- Worst case scenario for Napier (13:54)
- Special teams debacle (25:48)
- Defense stumbles (32:35)
- Predictable offense (40:16)
- Napier needs to look in the mirror (46:47)
- Players eyeing the portal? (58:25)
- Napier’s messaging (1:00:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (1:03:45)
Following three wins at home, the No. 22 Gators hit the road, where Billy Napier’s teams are 1-6 — 1-3 in SEC play. Florida used to dominate the Wildcats, but the series has become a dogfight. UF now aims to avoid its first three-game losing streak in the series since Bear Bryant coached Kentucky more than 60 years ago. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the Gators’ push to close September on a winning note.
- Kentucky has fewer flaws (:36)
- 2022 Florida-Kentucky game (8:31)
- QB situation (13:45)
- Should offense go rogue? (22:47)
- Austin Armstrong (26:43)
- Special teams (32:00)
- What would a loss mean? (39:51)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (42:24)
- SEC picks (46:30)
The Gators slipped by Charlotte 22-7 in the Swamp, struggling to build on their win against Tennessee and ride a wave of momentum into a two-month stretch of SEC play. Graham Mertz, Ricky Pearsall, Trey Smack and a suffocating defense gave fans something to cheer. But the overall performance continued to raise red flags about special teams, play-calling and the team’s O-line. During the latest Swamp things, Edgar and Mark dig into what it all means and whether it ultimately matters as Kentucky is sure to have the No. 23 Gators’ attention.
- Back on the roller coaster (:00)
- Ricky Pearsall’s catch (3:21)
- Graham Mertz: Is he going to last? (16:04)
- Analytics at play (20:17)
- Trevor Etienne & Montrell Johnson (24:00)
- Negatives: Takeaways & turnovers (31:21)
- Billy Napier’s messaging (37:02)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (42:38)
The No. 25 Gators host Charlotte Saturday in the Swamp during the final gimme on the schedule. Billy Napier has not seen the level of focus and intensity he’d hoped following UF’s upset of Tennessee, though he’s not entirely surprised. Even human nature will not be enough for the Gators to stumble against the 49ers, a 28-point underdog coming to Gainesville for a $1.55 million payday. During the latest Swamp things, Edgar and Mark discuss what the Gators stand to gain and where they need to improve before hitting the road to Kentucky.
- Stop playing meaningless games (:23)
- The Swamp sellout (5:39)
- Billy Napier: ‘Battle against human nature’ (7:15)
- Charlotte coach (10:35)
- Player suspensions (12:40)
- Team’s difference maker (23:38)
- Charlotte breakdown (28:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Olympic hopes (35:48)
UF’s resounding win against No. 11 Tennessee in a sold-out Swamp reasserted the Gators’ dominance against the Vols and showcased one of college football’s best home-field advantages. Transfer quarterback Graham Mertz continued to capitalize on his second chance, Trevor Etienne exhibited star potential and a retooled defense turned in another inspired effort under Austin Armstrong. The effort was far from flawless, but was a major step for an embattled coach and a group of players with something to prove. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark recall a memorable night and discuss how the Gators build on it.
- Gator suspensions (:17)
- Billy Napier: ‘It validates your plan’ (4:57)
- Upcoming games / expectations (12:00)
- The Swamp showed up in force (19:55)
- Identifying talent / leadership (28:00)
- Gushing about Graham Mertz (35:20)
- Special teams needs help (38:57)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball (45:50)
The Gators open conference play with a chance to supercharge their season, fast track Billy Napier’s rebuild and get off the schneid in rivalry games. A sold-out Swamp will be ready, waiting and wild as Vols coach Josh Heupel and his high-octane attack comes to town. The underdog Gators aim to ride the energy, a much-improved defense and a balanced attack to an upset of a Tennessee team with much to prove itself. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the Gators’ chances, the game’s importance for Napier and the Vols’ place in the SEC pecking order.
- Expect a close game (:25)
- Billy Napier needs to win big games (2:48)
- Tennessee is beatable (10:05)
- Unbelievable test for UF defense (14:00)
- Will offense show up? (16:57)
- Sellout at The Swamp (21:15)
- The line (25:39)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball (32:06)
- Picking SEC games (35:50)
Coach Billy Napier respects the Gators’ rivals, but has yet to beat any of them. UF’s SEC opener against the No. 11 Vols is his first chance in 2023 after going 0-4 during his first season in Gainesville. The Gators rebounded from the Utah loss to physically dominate overmatched McNeese. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark examine what to make of the 49-7 rout, what Napier and Graham Mertz said about the effort 48 hours later and whether a Week 3 game in Year 2 is make or break.
- Napier’s 9/11 perspective (:20)
- Rivalry games (4:05)
- Make-or-break game (9:49)
- McNeese takeaways (13:21)
- Gator’s identity? (17:59)
- QB Graham Mertz confidence boost (26:05)
- Crowd, LED lights, music (30:50)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball,Women’s Soccer, Tennis (33:29)
A visit from McNeese comes at the perfect time as coach Billy Napier’s Gators push to snap a four-game losing streak dating to 2022. Coming off a sloppy season-opening loss at Utah, UF cannot settle for anything less than a dominant, mistake-free effort against a Cowboys’ squad coming off a lopsided home loss to Tarleton State. But games against overmatched FCS foes do not always go according to plan, either. Mark and Edgar discuss what’s to be gained from Saturday night’s mismatch and much more during the latest Swamp Things.
- Week 2: McNeese (:34)
- Wide receiver Eugene Wilson (6:42)
- What would loss mean? (17:42)
- Defensive lineman Tyreak Sapp (23:50)
- What do you expect from crowd? (27:00)
- Where’s the passion? (30:11)
- Night game in The Swamp: LED lighting (36:58)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: U.S. Open (39:36)
- Patrick Young update (43:14)
Billy Napier took accountability for last week’s season-opening flop at Utah. But just one game into Year 2 Florida’s coach finds himself facing questions about his play calling, special teams approach and the Gators’ continued mental errors. Week 1 overreaction, perhaps, but Napier is now 6-8 and behind the 8-ball. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark serves as the voice of reason while Edgar can’t help but wonder where this season and program are headed after seeing one too many UF coaches come and go.
- '5-alarm fire on his hands’ (:24)
- Napier on losing (6:20)
- Play calling is predictable (13:30)
- Turning the screws to Napier (18:55)
- Special teams debacle (25:00)
- ‘Things gotta change’ (30:12)
- Positive: Defense (35:39)
- 'Behind the eight ball’ (47:07)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (49:26)
Florida’s 24-11 season-opening loss at Utah was a fiasco on every level, leaving fans disappointed, disillusioned, even disgusted. More than eight months since a 30-3 loss to Oregon State in the Las Vegas Bowl, the Gators traveled more than 2,000 miles west and delivered a dud of a performance. UF committed ill-timed, head-scratching penalties, was beaten at the line of scrimmage and completely outcoached by a veteran Utah staff. Rather than open 2023 with an overmatched opponent at home, the Gators boldly went on the road to a tough environment to face a championship program. Napier, his staff and players aim to learn from their mistakes and be better for the experience during the next three months. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark agree all hope certainly is not lost but a lot has to change or UF is on pace for three consecutive losing seasons for the first time since the 1950s.
- ‘Disappointed, disillusioned, disgusted’ (:30)
- ‘Didn’t understand the game plan’ (3:16)
- A glimmer of a rally? (7:50)
- Billy Napier’s play calling (9:53)
- ‘There’s no gimmes after that game’ (18:15)
- Hunkering down for a long season (25:43)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball (32:20)
As if Florida’s season opener in Salt Lake City was not challenging enough, the Gators hit the road a day early as Hurricane Idalia made its way to the Sunshine State. Billy Napier aims to make the best of it, if not benefit from the schedule change. The 2023 Gators certainly appear to be more talented and tightly knit than Napier’s first UF squad. The roster upgrades and optimism will be tested, but the No. 14 Utes have their own concerns, beginning with star quarterback Cam Rising’s availability. During the latest Swamp Things. Mark and Edgar welcome Week 1 with open arms and discuss Thursday’s matchup - and much more as Florida athletics ramp up.
Coach Billy Napier enters his second season up to his eyeballs in a massive rebuild and facing low expectations, but he does have history on his side. Year 2’s have been good to the Gators ever since Steve Spurrier’s 1991 team produced the program’s first 10-win season. Napier’s second team at Louisiana also was a major upgrade. If these Gators are to follow suit, much will hinge on QB Graham Mertz. Word is he has won the confidence of his pass-catchers. Even so, any way you cut it 2023 is a rebuilding year. Those who want to relive the hey-day of Florida football can tune into Netflix’s four-part doc, “Swamp Kings.” Mark binged it while Edgar had issues with Episode 1, one of many topics discussed during the latest Swamp Things.
- Week 1: Thursday night game (:58)
- States with top talent raided (6:30)
- Success = ? (9:20)
- QB Graham Mertz (12:28)
- Billy Napier’s role (15:06)
- Injuries piling up (22:40)
- “Swamp Kings” (33:45)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (49:48)
New starting quarterback Graham Mertz spoke for the first time since the spring game and a few days after Billy Napier named him starting quarterback. Mertz said all the right things. The question is whether he can make all the right moves for the Gators. Former UF QB Anthony Richardson has made enough of them to earn the starting job with the Indianapolis Colts. It’s a testament to Richardson’s talent and potential, but this will be a baptism by fire. Back in Gainesville, Mark and Edgar are fired up during the latest Swamp Things as the Gators wrap up fall camp and the season opener at Utah is two weeks away.
Worst kept secret: QB Graham Mertz (:38)
QBs Jack Miller, Max Brown & Micah Leon (9:45)
Mertz & Wisconsin program (18:45)
Linebacker Jack Pyburn (24:24)
Areas of concern: Tight end and safety (26:30)
Positives (33:12)
Anthony Richardson in NFL (37:57)
Netflix documentary: ‘Swamp Kings’ (43:20)
New recruits (53:20)
Military salute (1:03)
Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball (59:11)
Florida’s fall camp entered Week 2 in pull pads and with a full plate. Billy Napier targeted the team’s first scrimmage, set for Aug. 10, as he name’s a starting quarterback - or is it, names Graham Mertz the starting quarterback? Mertz, a 22, fifth-year player, brings experience and leadership to a team with dozens of fresh faces, including 20 first-year scholarship players. Among them, three first-year receivers have generated the most buzz. Meanwhile, former coach Dan Mullen has avoided generating attention to his final days at UF. The coach-turned-TV-analyst broke his silence during a recent interview, firing a few shots over the bough at his former employer. Mark and Edgar fire off a few takes themselves and take off myriad topics during the latest Swamp Things.
- Full pads in Florida heat (1:48)
- QB: “It’s going to be Graham Mertz” (3:10)
- Youth movement (7:50)
- Offense (12:05)
- Defense (16:30)
- Talented running backs (22:32)
- Top priority for Gators: Health (26:33)
- Conference realignment (29:36)
- Dan Mullin on UF (38:05)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Golf (48:17)
Florida kicked off Billy Napier’s second fall camp as the Gators prepare for the Aug. 31 opener at Utah. The Utes are the reigning champions of the Pac-12, but time will tell what remains of the conference following Oregon and Washington’s jump to the Big Ten amid unceasing realignment. The Gators suffered an early setback when promising sophomore linebacker Shemar James injured his leg on Day 3. Napier and Co. also signed quality depth at the position during the offseason. Overall, the Gators are deeper, more physically imposing and presumably more talented during Year 2 under Napier. Edgar and Mark bring listeners up to speed during the latest Swamp Things.
- College football conference changes (:34)
- Gator football practice (12:32)
- Keeping focus (24:34)
- Open practice Saturday (27:49)
- Future with DJ Lagway (34:32)
- Jags: Ventrell Miller (41:15)
- The Swamp/ADA compliance (43:03)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (48:37)
Florida’s second season under Billy Napier will not be much better than the first once, at least according to SEC media. The Gators were picked to finish fifth in the East division a season after going 3-5 in league play in Napier’s debut. Florida also did not place anyone on the first or second All-SEC teams. The lack of respect arrived on Billy’s birthday, not that the newly minted 44-year-old noticed. At SEC Media Days, Napier played it close to the vest but clearly was confident in what’s ahead in Year 2. Mark and Edgar are much freer with their opinions during the latest Swamp Things.
- SEC Media Day: Gators place 5th in East (1:09)
- Teams Gators are competing against (5:13)
- Gators not built to be a competitor in 2023 (7:46)
- Team taking shape soon (12:26)
- Harder to be head coach now (19:02)
- Controlling the narrative (23:20)
- Gator Media Day lacking players (35:54)
- Expectations: Transfer guys, (36:34)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:11)
SEC Media Days begin Monday, marking the unofficial start of the college football season. Florida coach Billy Napier will speak Wednesday. Surprisingly, quarterback Graham Mertz won’t. Mertz hopes he gets this kind of protection from his offensive line in 2023. While football season remains more than six weeks away, the college baseball season just wrapped up. The Gators came up a game shy of winning a national title, but several Gators were big winners this week during the MLB Draft. Mark and Edgar dig in to the details during the latest Swamp Things.
- Talking season (1:06)
- What will Billy Napier’s message be? (10:55)
- Will Napier find his niche? (15:18)
- Graham Mertz not talking (18:43)
- Other high-profile players (24:18)
- Star power? (28:59)
- Top storylines (32:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (39:55)
UF announced its search began for an architectural firm to oversee a complete renovation of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. AD Scott Stricklin expects the project to impact every aspect of the iconic venue opened in 1930 as Florida Field and now better known as the Swamp. Mark’s No. 1 item on the to-do list might surprise listeners. During the latest Swamp Things, he and Edgar dig into all the details of the largest facility project in the UAA’s history and climax of athletic facility upgrades campus wide.
- Stadium makeover announcement (1:07)
- Wish list: Urinals (23:01)
- $400M seems unrealistic (7:10)
- Capacity questions (10:42)
- Building in stages over time (14:16)
- Timetable (23:15)
- Atmosphere at The Swamp (25:30)
- Most ambitious NIL collectives (27:33)
- ESPN layoffs (35:58)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Baseball, gymnastics, swimming (38:54)
Florida was positioned to end the 2022-23 athletic season with the Gators’ third national title in June. Instead, coach Kevin O’Sullivan’s baseball team collapsed during the deciding game in the College World Series against LSU. While one game does not make a season, the loss ended a calendar year that left a lot to be desired in Gainesville. Edgar and Mark offer bricks and bouquets during the latest Swamp Things.
- Baseball roller coaster (1:23)
- Revenge motivation (6:27)
- Where do you go from here? (9:37)
- Grading 2022-23 athletic season (18:15)
- Football standout (32:50)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (35:37)
In the span of 72 hours, the Gators responded to QB commit Austin Simmons’ flip to Ole Miss with a tidal wave of recruiting success. When the dust settled, Billy Napier’s 2024 class had risen more than a dozen spots to sit No. 3 and the Gators’ second-year coach had his biggest wave of momentum to date. The key now is to keep the good times rolling and the new commits in the fold for the next six months. Meanwhile, coach Kevin O’Sullivan’s squad shows no signs of slowing down in Omaha. Mark and Edgar try to keep pace during the latest Swamp Things.
- Billy Napier rebounds on recruiting (:58)
- What do you do with momentum? (3:40)
- At look at the players (5:28)
- Baseball (13:58)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Track & field (20:04)
- Golf (24:22)
The SEC did not do Florida any favors with the 8-game, 2024 schedule. Billy Napier’s third season in Gainesville features arguably the toughest slate of games in program history. While the Gators’ football rebuild could take a little longer now, Todd Golden pushes forward with the addition of nine new players to join Riley Kugel and Co. Meanwhile, coach Mike “Mouse” Holloway’s track and field program continued to fire on all cylinders en route to its sixth men’s outdoor national championship and 13th overall. Kevin O’Sullivan has a good chance for his second natty during UF’s long-awaited return to the College World Series. After a two-week layoff while Wesley vacationed, Edgar and Mark are back to break it all down during the latest Swamp Things.
- Brutal schedule in 2024 (:50)
- Florida committed to Napier (6:40)
- Push panic button in 2025 (10:13)
- DJ Lagway hype (13:31)
- Predictions (22:23)
- Basketball (24:56)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Track & Field (29:50)
- Baseball (39:24)
- Golf (48:30)
The SEC decided to punt on a scheduling decision and keep an 8-game conference slate for at least one more year. The decision allows the Gators to keep a much-anticipated non-conference schedule in 2024. Beyond that remains a mystery as Florida football looks to rejoin the nation’s elite. Coach Billy Napier said he faces ‘a great challenge’ as he rebuilds the Gators,’ but believes he’s up to it. Meanwhile, JC Deacon’s squad proved its mettle to capture the school’s national title in men’s golf since 2001. Mark and Edgar do their best to prove theirs during the last Swamp Things.
- SEC: 8-game schedule (2:37)
- What’s best for the fans/tv? (6:15)
- Coffee with Billy Napier (15:32)
- Putting the pieces together (25:30)
- NIL issues (27:21)
- Redoing The Swamp (31:00)
- UF wins national men’s golf title (33:19)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (39:21)
Florida’s walk-off, extra-inning win against Alabama was college baseball at its best and began the Gators’ quest for their first SEC Tournament title since 2015. Earlier in the day, Florida and Georgia agreed to extend their contract to play in Jacksonville through 2025 as the rivals debate the long-term future of their annual game. Next week in Destin, SEC coaches, ADs and administrators will get together during the annual spring meetings to discuss scheduling, gambling, NIL, among other topics on a jam-packed agenda. Mark and Edgar unpack it all during the latest Swamp Things.
- Florida catcher BT Riopelle steals the show (3:44)
- Future of Florida/Georgia game (13:39)
- SEC spring meetings: Scheduling (19:10)
- SEC: NIL/field-storming/gambling (30:26)
- SEC: Guys with checkered pasts (38:35)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (44:38)
Mark spent a few days at the ACC Spring Meeting where the SEC’s superiority became even clearer. Rival Florida State and its brethren might never close the ever-growing financial gap, but the Seminoles are on the rise again in football. It’s easy to forget Mike Norvell was in fans’ crosshairs not long ago. Billy Napier finds himself in a similar position. Some media members have even used the phrase “hot seat.” Edgar and Mark aren’t buying the sky-is-falling chatter, but are willing to discuss it and much more during the latest Swamp Things.
The Gators-Bulldogs rivalry could be forced to play elsewhere because of the upcoming renovation of Jacksonville’s TIAA Bank Field. The teams have met once on each other’s campus since the longstanding series began in 1933. Each time, Steve Spurrier’s Fun n’ Gun scored 52 points during wins in 1994-95. But the tables have turned on the longstanding rivalry. TIAA’s makeover also would force the Jaguars on the road. The Swamp is a leading candidate for an NFL franchise with an annual home date with Richardson’s Indianapolis Colts. Wherever the game is played, Georgia is sure to be heavily favored unless things change. As access to sports betting grows, college athletes are increasingly tempted to get involved. Are recent scandals at two Iowa schools the tip of the iceberg? Mark and Edgar dive below the surface during the latest Swamp Things.
- Where will Jags play during stadium renovations? (1:10)
- Florida-Georgia game (3:51)
- Gambling seeping into locker rooms (9:56)
- Transfer portal open for business (20:15)
- Gator basketball portal news (23:21)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (25:26)
Florida landed Michigan safety R.J. Moten, the first signing from the spring transfer portal and a Gators’ legacy. Whether anyone will follow him has spurred discussion. Napier and Co. don’t bring just anyone to Gainesville, relying on a measured, methodical approach at a time when quick decisions are the norm. Anyone who makes the cut hopes to one day reach the NFL. On Days 2 and 3 of the draft, several Gators joined first-round pick Anthony Richardson at the next level. Few Florida hitters have reached the rare air of Jac Caglianone and Skylar Wallace. The record-setting sluggers continue their assault of the school’s record book and national player of the year campaigns. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark take the bully pulpit themselves on the eve of the Kentucky Derby.
- Kentucky Derby (2:11)
- Portal angst (7:45)
- Billy Napier evaluations (18:27)
- Scholarships awarded (25:26)
- Gators in NFL Draft (28:51)
- College football playoff schedule(44:32)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:00)
The Indianapolis Colts selected the former Florida quarterback No. 4 overall in the NFL draft. Few were surprised someone was willing to bet on Richardson’s tremendous talent and upside. Most are mixed on whether he will fulfill his promise. Either way, it was a memorable and profitable night for the 20-year-old and a big one for Gainesville, where Richardson was a high school star. Some of his Gators teammates were sure to hear their names call, too, during a moment players work for their entire lives. Mark and Edgar opine on Richardson’s opportunity and plenty of football topics during the latest Swamp Things.
- Sun shining on Anthony Richardson (:37)
- Source of pride for Gainesville (5:05)
- He has tons of work ahead to prove he is worthy (9:24)
- Gator greats weigh in (13:05)
- Will team/fans be patient? (19:39)
- Does Billy Napier deserve praise? (24:29)
- Where will other Gators land? (29:14)
- Transfer portal (40:05)
- Storming the field (45:04)
- Fastest shrinking fanbases (49:20)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Golf (54:12)
The no-show by Florida’s offense during the spring game spurred questions about the direction of Billy Napier’s attack. Is the criticism unfair or is the Gators’ coach taking on too much responsibility? Meanwhile, Todd Golden’s squad is shaping up to be bigger and more physical a season after getting pushed around. No one has gotten the best of Florida gymnastics the past two years, other than Oklahoma. The Sooners once again edged the Gators for the national title despite the valiant efforts of injured star Trinity Thomas, whose remarkable career still ended in memorable fashion. During a fast-paced Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss it all — and more.
- Spring game revisited: Billy Napier taking on too much? (1:19)
- Offensive help needed (8:47)
- Men’s basketball roster makeover (11:13)
- NFL draft (17:42)
- Jeremy Foley’ s Corner: Gymnastics, baseball, track & field (24:21)
Was the annual Orange and Blue game a bad night for Billy Napier’s offense or a sign of things to come for Austin Armstrong’s defense? Perhaps it was a little bit of both. Whatever the case, the lowest-scoring spring game on record raised eyebrows and questions about Florida’s attack and offered hope for an embattled D. Mark and Edgar break it down during the latest Swamp Things, while tossing in a little bit of Gators’ basketball, baseball and gymnastics.
- It looks like Gators are in trouble (3:41)
- Defense: Depth and talent (8:20)
- QB: Past, present, future (18:00)
- Portal planning (21:31)
- Finding an identity (26:13)
- NIL: Florida Victorious (32:16)
- Spring game did not inspire hope (40:00)
- Men’s basketball: Portal picks (43:09)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Gymnastics & baseball (52:38)
- Florida Victorious townhall (59:55)
Spring practice enters the final week but the quarterback competition might be just beginning. Wisconsin transfer Graham Mertz would appear to have the inside track, but Jack Miller III is in the mix, according to Billy Napier. Coaches also are wise not to tip their hand in the age of the transfer portal. Both basketball programs are up to their eyeballs in the portal with several open spots on their rosters. Meanwhile, baseball coach Kevin O’Sullivan’s team seems to be one without any holes and remains perfect on the road. Edgar and Mark touch all the bases during the latest Swamp Things.
- Spring football = QB competition (1:01)
- Old-school vibe (11:28)
- DJ Lagway (14:35)
- Playmakers (20:37)
- Front 7 (25:27)
- Building depth (29:50)
- Spring football game wishes (35:34)
- Basketball season wraps (43:28)
- Women’s basketball (52:02)
- Masters Tournament (59:57)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (1:03:58)
Former Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson drew a crowd at the Pro Day, where he showcased his arm strength and athleticism for all 32 NFL teams. While Richardson’s draft position is one of the draft’s storylines, the Gators move forward during spring practices. Coach Billy Napier’s Year 2 fortunes rest on a robust run game and improved play up front, where a key O-line injury looms large. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar break down Pro Day, share their thoughts on spring practice and discuss college basketball’s biggest weekend.
- Final Four weekend (1:08)
- Gator Pro Day: Anthony Richardson (3:54)
- Where’s Richardson going? (12:46)
- Richardson: Risk vs. reward (20:15)
- O’Cyrus Torrence & Gervon Dexter Sr. (25:40)
- Other standouts (30:00)
- Men’s basketball recruits (32:20)
- Women’s basketball recruits (39:08)
- Spring football: Look at QBs (43:52)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (52:50)
The NCAA Tournament continues to deliver drama, upsets and hope for programs on the outside looking in. After ending their season with an NIT no-show against UCF, the Gators face a roster makeover and push to become one of the next quick turnarounds in college basketball. Meanwhile, Florida women’s team made the most of its WNIT opportunity and is solidly positioned with several key pieces poised to return. While the Big Dance captivates a nation, football is the focus in Gainesville. Spring football begins Week 2 and March 30 Pro Day is on the horizon. Edgar and Mark discuss it all and more during the latest Swamp Things.
- Big Dance surpasses expectations (1:00)
- Cyclical nature of college sports (6:55)
- Florida football/basketball misery (15:17)
- Future expectations (20:00)
- Billy Napier’s plan (24:15)
- Pro Day twist (31:15)
- New WR coach (32:40)
- Patric Young inspiration (34:50)
- Foley’s Corner: Gymnastics dominate (38:16)
- Shorter baseball games (41:57)
- Track and field rewarded (43:47)
The NCAA Tournament begins this week, but Florida is on the outside looking in and bound for the NIT. What do Todd Golden and Kelly Rae Finley’s teams stand to gain from hosting games lacking fan appeal and long-term impact? Meanwhile, the Big Dance is sure to deliver drama, upsets and memories. Mark and Edgar share some favorites from decades of watching and reporting on arguably the best event in sports. Listeners will get their fill during a basketball-centric Swamp Things, but not without a little football chatter as the Gators’ staff comes together and spring football takes a week off.
- Holes in one (:00)
- Breaking news: New WR coach (7:04)
- College basketball purgatory (9:15)
- Florida has a lot to lose (16:12)
- Portal duds (22:18)
- Women’s basketball (28:52)
- AD Scott Stricklin all about student experience (34:10)
- NCAA Tournament delivers (38:30)
- No clear-cut favorite (47:18)
- Spring football (1:00:30)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Gymnastics (1:08:30)
Former Florida QB Anthony Richardson was expected to steal the show at the NFL Scouting Combine, but might have even surpassed expectations. Will Richardon’s record-setting performance seduce an NFL team into the ultimate risk-reward move? Almost as predictable is Alabama coach Nick Saban complaining about something. This time it’s the Crimson Tide’s potential three permanent opponents if the pending 16-team SEC expands the schedule to nine games. Edgar takes a trip down memory lane with the legendary coach who is suffering a bit of amnesia. Meanwhile, don’t forget basketball season, even if it’s over for the Gators, barring an SEC Tournament miracle. Despite an disappointing Year 1, Todd Golden did find a future star in Riley Kugel. Will it be at Florida? Mark and Edgar break it all down during the latest Swamp Things.
- NFL Scouting Combine: Anthony Richardson (2:00)
- He will go in the Top 5 (8:30)
- Problematic interview comments (14:30)
- The question is accuracy (18:09)
- Spring practice: More efficient (23:23 )
- Should #15, #11, #22 be retired? (26:08)
- Billy Napier on staff (28:33)
- Nick Saban’s schedule complaint (36:18)
- Men’s basketball (46:32)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (55:40)
Florida kicks off its second spring practice under Billy Napier this weekend. During 14 practices until the April 18 spring game, all eyes will be transfer QB Graham Mertz, the retooled O-line and a defense coming off a historically bad season and welcoming new, 29-year-old coordinator Austin Armstrong. While spring practices have Gator Nation’s attention, college basketball seizes center stage elsewhere. Todd Golden’s team is playing out the string while Kelly Rae Finley’s squad likely ended a disappointing season in embarrassing fashion. At least baseball fans have something to smile about entering a weekend visit from Miami. Mark and Edgar dig into the details during the latest Swamp Things.
- Spring football practice: How predictive is it? (2:48)
- Limited access to players (9:48)
- New assistant coaches (13:51)
- Player potential (17:15)
- Spring game opportunities (21:15)
- Men’s basketball (30:38)
- Women’s basketball (37:00)
- UF athletic department problems (41:00)
- NFL Scouting Combine (47:47)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Baseball (56:40)
Florida defensive coordinator Patrick Toney will leave for the Arizona Cardinals following a 2022 Gators’ debut when his defense struggled mightily. Austin Armstrong will step in after less than 10 days on Nick Saban’s staff at Alabama. With spring practices set to begin March 4, the 29-year-old will have to quickly install his defense and elevate Florida significantly on that side of football. Year 1s have not been kind to the Gators. Case in point: the men’s basketball team. Todd Golden’s squad is in a freefall following Colin Castleton’s season-ending injury. With this and plenty more to discuss, including gymnast Trinity Thomas’ final home meet, Edgar and Mark try to keep their footing during the latest Swamp Things. * Patrick Toney to NFL (1:25) * Billy Napier taking a gamble (7:26) * Vision for The Swamp (13:10) * Basketball: Growing pains and struggles (17:47) * Football: Growing pains and struggles (22:42) * Florida Gov.DeSantis signs NIL legislation (26:05) * Nascar Daytona 500 recap (31:05) * SEC Media Days (43:54) * Jeremy Foley’s Corner (46:40)
Florida’s tenuous NCAA Tournament hopes suffered a major blow when star big man Colin Castleton broke his hand against Ole Miss. Can Todd Golden’s team recover? Texas and Oklahoma’s early jump to the SEC in 2024 is official. How will it impact Gators? During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar take a break from Daytona 500 coverage to catch up the latest in Florida sports.
- Daytona 500 (:37)
- Men’s basketball: Colin Castleton injury (5:10)
- Football: Texas & Oklahoma early jump to SEC (8:47)
- 3 permanents? (15:37)
- Billy Napier high on team (22:05)
- 2024 schedule (26:19)
- Olympic sports (29:10)
- Gators at Super Bowl (34:36)
- Women’s basketball (39:26)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Baseball (44:12)
Former Florida commit Jaden Rashada’s NIL contract surfaced earlier this week and, yes, it’s as obscene and embarrassing as one might expect. Time will tell whether the mess is behind the Gators, but the stain will remain for some time. The school’s University of Athletic Association’s 2021-22 year-end NCAA report reinforces the cost of doing business in big-time college athletics. Super Bowl Sunday is an annual reminder business is booming in the NFL, which is charging $7 million for a 30-second commercial - or roughly Billy Napier’s annual salary. A handful of Gators will share in the spotlight when the Eagles and Chief seize the world stage Sunday. Edgar and Mark follow the money during the latest Swamp Things.
- Clarity on Jaden Rashada (:43)
- Embarrassing for Gators/Rashadas/NIL (7:16)
- Legal angles (12:00)
- UF financials (15:07)
- Billy Napier’s budget (27:20)
- Super Bowl: Gators in spotlight (32:58)
- Basketball: UF has far to go (39:04)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Softball (46:17)
College football’s National Signing Day was as much about the player the Gators didn’t land as the dozens it did. Jaden Rashada once again seized center stage as Billy Napier, Florida’s frustrated coach, publicly addressed for the first time the high-profile mess surrounding the California high schooler’s recruitment and a failed NIL deal. This might be the end of the drama involving Rashada, who plans to sign with Arizona State. Problems with NIL, though, are sure to continue until the system changes. Meanwhile, Todd Golden had a night to remember and potentially a program-building win against No. 2 Tennessee. Mark and Edgar break it all down during the latest Swamp Things. * Billy Napier on Jaden Rashada mess (2:09) * Flawed system: There is no control (7:00) * How does it all unfold? (13:43) * National Signing Day (18:11) * All eyes on Graham Mertz (24:04) * Gators must do better to close gap (28:35) * Men’s basketball: Making moves that make a difference (30:53) * Women’s basketball: Going in opposite direction (37:25) * Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Golf (39:40)
A scheduling quirk and twist of fate will pit the Gators against Keyontae Johnson and the No. 5 Wildcats on Saturday during the SEC/Big 12 Challenge. This more than two years after Johnson’s harrowing collapse at Florida State ended his playing days in Gainesville. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss their memories of that day and the fallout, while updating the Jaden Rashada situation and Billy Napier’s final haul in the transfer portal.
- Keyontae Johnson comeback story (2:45)
- What could have been for Johnson at UF? (13:55)
- UF could make statement with upcoming games (16:01)
- What’s next with Jaden Rashada? (20:09)
- Signing Day- (23:46)
- Rashada stain here to stay (25:48)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Men’s tennis (29:57)
Jaden Rashada requested his release from his national letter of intent, but is the book closed on the NIL mess created during the pursuit of Florida’s top recruit? Speaking of messes, did you see the final play of the loss at Texas A&M in men’s basketball? At least there’s gymnastics, but otherwise 2023 is off on the wrong foot for the Gators. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar don’t look to pile on but also don’t pull any punches discussing the state of Florida’s two high-profile programs.
- Jags comeback (:31)
- Gators cut ties with Jaden Rashada (2:05)
- Will Florida be poster child for breaking NIL deals? (7:49)
- Will Gator Collective settle with Rashada or go to court? (11:22)
- Who looks worse: Gators, Rashada or the system? (15:15)
- Buttoning up the Gator Collective (23:25)
- Where will Rashada land? (28:33)
- QB situation murky at UF (323:05)
- Men’s Basketball (39:03)
- Women’s Basketball (47:49)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Baseball (51:11)
California high schooler Jaden Rashada’s no-show when UF opened classes Monday caused an uproar, spotlighted the shortcomings of NIL and could cost Billy Napier his top recruit and only quarterback in the Gators’ 2023 class. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss what happened, how it happened and how do Napier, Scott Stricklin and the Gators recover.
- Jaden Rashada drama (:43)
- Lagging Gators (14:01)
- Time to cut bait? (16:45)
- You can’t trust Florida (20:44)
- Florida needs to tell its side (25:50)
- What can we do to compete? (32:20)
- Finally something positive … (36:10)
- Are things as bad as they seem? (40:50)
- National championship game (46:20)
- Gators are so far behind (48:30)
Florida moves past a forgettable 2022 season and builds toward the future as 2023 begins. The Gators signed a strong class Dec. 21 and have a number of top transfers on the radar as Napier and Co. overhaul a roster in need of one. Meanwhile, Todd Golden’s first season in men’s basketball has been a struggle itself. A visit to former coach Mike White and Georgia is a must-win for optics as much as already fading NCAA Tournament hopes. Mark and Edgar discuss the tough opening acts for the Gators’ two premiere sports and discuss the CFB Playoff title game during the latest Swamp Things.
- Playoff takeaways (1:24)
- Gators not in a good spot (7:17)
- Gator recuits (10:50)
- Protecting players from media (14:38)
- Napier & roster building (19:58)
- QB questions (24:40)
- Title game: Georgia vs. TCU (26:33)
- Mike White is back (34:09)
- Todd Golden says what’s on his mind (40:42)
- Women’s basketball (45:08)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Gymnastic (47:17)
Florida failed to finish with a flourish and slipped in the rankings, but Napier and Co. inked a rock-solid class addressing many of the Gators’ laundry list of needs. California high schooler Jaden Rashada headlined the nation’s No. 12 class and provides hope at quarterback. The Gators also landed some intriguing perimeter playmakers, a six-pack of DBs, several 4-star defensive lineman and a trio of O-line prospects with potential. Mark and Edgar dig in on the details, hand out grades and share childhood memories of Franco Harris during the final Swamp Things of 2022.
Florida’s 30-3 loss to Oregon State in the Las Vegas Bowl culminated a second straight 6-7 season at Florida and left one searching for signs of progress. The Gators were without their best offensive playmaker (Anthony Richardson), offensive lineman (O’Cyrus Torrence) and defensive player (Ventrell Miller). Front and center were the same issues that have plagued Florida. Napier and his staff will quickly turn the page to National Signing Day Wednesday. Gators’ fans will need some time for the taste of the Las Vegas Bowl and a three-game losing streak to fade. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark double down with observations and questions from Napier’s disappointing Year 1.
Mike Leach’s death at age 61 cast a dark cloud over college football, stirring tributes and memories of the innovative, eccentric coach nicknamed “The Pirate.” Leach leaves behind a legion of fans, including many in the media, a lasting impact on the passing game and an unmatched legacy due to his outsized personality. But the games will go on, including Saturday’s Las Vegas Bowl pitting Florida and No. 14 Oregon State. The Gators aim to avoid a second straight losing season with first-time starting QB Jack Miller III, but take on the surging Beavers without a full roster. During the latest episode, Edgar and Mark discuss Leach’s tragic passing, Miller Time for Florida and weigh in on two basketball programs going in opposite directions.
- Sad day for college football (1:05)
- What can Billy Napier gain from game? (10:16)
- Starting QB Jack Miller (12:10)
- What team will show up in Las Vegas? (16:13)
- Oregon State will be a challenge (22:00)
- Best duo in college football (26:54)
- Win prevents negative recruiting (28:34)
- Napier on roster building (30:17)
- Men’s basketball (38:15)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Women’s basketball (52:21)
- Emory Jones enters transfer portal… again (56:47)
- Pick Six Bowl Games (59:41)
Florida coach Billy Napier’s team will travel more than 2,000 miles to play the Las Vegas Bowl with a team losing players by the day because of transfers, dismissals and NFL early entry. Anthony Richarson is pursuing his professional dream, as is likely All-SEC guard O’Cyrus Torrence and defensive tackle Gervon Dexter. Linebacker Ventrell Miller is likely staying home, too, leaving the Gators with a makeshift roster to face surging Oregon State. Florida is staring at another 6-7 finish, but help is on the way as the transfer portal opens for business and Early Signing Day is two weeks away. During the latest episode, Mark and Edgar discuss the head-spinning days and weeks ahead for the Napier and Co. as they juggle a meaningless bowl with a massive rebuild.
- Anthony Richardson declares for draft (1:26)
- Is Richardson at NFL level? (4:30)
- Headed to Las Vegas Bowl (13:10)
- Are Gators irrelevant? (20:20)
- Bleeding players / team transforming (25:12)
- Basketball: What team is going to show up? (34:18)
- Jalen Kitna arrest (39:02)
- Pick Six: Phoenix rising (44:18)
- Jeremy Foley Corner: Volleyball (49:03)
Billy Napier’s first regular season ended with a 6-6 record, culminating with a 45-38 loss Friday night at rival FSU. The Gators still have a bowl game to play, but the program’s future will be the primary focus during the coming weeks. Anthony Richardon’s NFL decision looms, but the team’s quarterback is among many players facing decisions about their future at Florida. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark reflect on Year 1 under Napier and the challenges ahead, beginning with rebuilding the Gators’ roster.
- Jags: Crazy, crazy finish (2:07)
- Is Billy Napier criticism fair? (4:02)
- What you can control vs. can’t control (10:30)
- Baffling playbook (13:38)
- Anthony Richardson’s future (22:04)
- QB in 2023? (31:12)
- Navigating transfer portal (34:16)
- Staff quality control (38:50)
- Pick Six (44:39)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Basketball (53:25)
- Gator bowl prospects (58:24)
Billy Napier’s first regular season at Florida could end on a high note at Florida State or a two-game losing streak culminating with a loss to the rival Seminoles. Either result is unlikely to change the program’s trajectory but certainly will impact the perception of Year 1 under a new regime — along with the Gators’ postseason opportunities. The stakes are higher than they’ve been in awhile as Florida returns to Tallahassee for the first time since 2018. The Gators look to rebound from a stunning loss at Vanderbilt while the Noles aim to extend a dominant four-game winning streak and end a three-game skid to Florida. During the latest episode, Mark and Edgar discuss the matchup and the Gators’ chances as 9.5-point underdogs to the high-scoring, red-hot Seminoles.
- Giving thanks (1:01)
- Heading to Tally (3:58)
- Game is not what it used to be (7:18)
- Favorite UF-FSU memory (10:42)
- Still bad blood (15:34)
- Win would be huge for FSU (17:44)
- Napier needs win after Vandy loss (20:27)
- Friday night blowback (23:24)
- What Gators need to do to win (27:18)
- SEC Pick Six (34:24)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Basketball (40:39)
Florida appeared to finally be on track in Year 1 under Billy Napier following decisive wins against South Carolina and Texas A&M. Instead, the Gators’ no-show against the Commodores sent Gator Nation into an uproar. Florida could not overcome killer penalties, a punchless run game and more special teams mishaps to lose in Nashville for the first time since 1988. During the latest episode, Edgar and Mark try to make sense of one of the program’s worst defeats in decades.
- World Cup chat (:00)
- Florida vs Vanderbilt: Worst defeat in decades (1:59)
- Gators’ top losses (7:07)
- Weird SEC (11:24)
- Problems on the field (15:50)
- Is Billy Napier taking on too much? (20:00)
- Anthony Richardson’s baffling running game (26:00)
- Mistakes & penalties (33:45)
- Some positives (39:15)
Billy Napier says it’s fun to go to work these days. Hard to blame him following Florida’s best stretch of football this season. The Gators look to keep the good times rolling at Vanderbilt, a place Florida has experienced some epic struggles. The Commodores are feeling pretty good about them themselves, too, after ending a 26-game SEC losing streak. Another obstacle could be the weather: temperatures will dip into the 20s on the eve of Saturday’s 11 a.m. kickoff. During the latest episode, Mark and Edgar discuss the matchup, along with a stunning loss in men’s basketball during Todd Golden’s third game at the helm.
- Billy Napier: It’s a lot of fun to come to work right now (:55)
- Past Vanderbilt/Florida matchups (3:20)
- What to expect from Commodores (6:29)
- Don’t talk about the weather (12:05)
- Exodus of players: Diwun Black (13:25)
- Dez Watson: Ripped it, stripped it and thought six (20:07)
- Basketball: Shocking loss to FAU (23:16)
- Keyontae Johnson thriving (29:53)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Cross country (33:00)
- SEC Pick Six (35:45)
Billy Napier called the Gators’ 38-6 win against the Gamecocks his team’s most complete game. A 32-point rout could have been worse if not for some special teams slip-ups and red-zone misses, but the performance featured plenty of positives and impressive performances. Florida’s win secured a bowl bid and continued the team’s November momentum. During the latest episode, Mark and Edgar look back on an entertaining Saturday in the Swamp.
- Billy Napier: ‘Our most complete performance’ (1:03)
- Gators inching toward respectability (3:16)
- Jaden Rashada QB recruit flips (4:45)
- Run game & defense (7:09)
- Anthony Richardson on being a better leader (9:50)
- Players that shined (14:23)
- Fan favorite Dez Watson (15:59)
- 2023 class potential (23:22)
- Where Gators need to improve (25:24)
- Where Gators excel (30:30)
Fan favorite and hard-hitting linebacker Ventrell Miller headlines a group of 18 players set for their final home game on Senior Day. One looming question: will this also be Anthony Richardson’s final day in the Swamp? Either way, the Gators hope to ride the day’s emotion and the energy of a sellout crowd to a win against South Carolina and bowl eligibility. Billy Napier’s team has plenty to build on after a decisive win at Texas A&M. Coach Shane Beamer’s Gamecocks are 8.5-point underdogs but winners of five of six games. During the latest episode, Edgar and Mark discuss the many storylines surrounding Saturday’s matchup.
- Hurricane Nicole (:00)
- Final home game: Senior Day (2:31)
- Players moving on: ‘Writing on the wall’ (8:33)
- Napier on roster: ‘A math problem’ (11:47)
- Not sure what to make of South Carolina (14:55)
- Can Gators build on A&M win? (24:37)
- Are Gators finding offensive identity? (27:30)
- Anthony Richardson: Last game in Swamp? (30:41)
- SEC Pick Six (35:52)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Hoops (41:56)
- Major Parker dies at 44 (45:05)
The Gators’ 41-24 win at Texas A&M was decisive and potentially pivotal for Napier’s first-year program. Florida wore down and shut down the depleted Aggies to silence the 12th man at electric Kyle Field. Edgar and Mark discuss the significance of Napier’s first SEC road win during the latest episode.
- Defense & special teams (:45)
- Offense on top 4:05)
- Billy Napier needed this win (6:54)
- Texas A&M environment (10:14)
- Anthony Richardson performance (11:23)
- Great football weekend for SEC (20:18)
- Important next steps for Gators (25:50)
A pivotal month is ahead for the 4-4 Gators. Bowl eligibility is on the line as the schedule eases up following consecutive losses to LSU and Georgia. Even so, a trip to struggling Texas A&M will test Napier’s squad. Jimbo Fisher’s 3-5 team has not justified a preseason top-10 ranking, but several first-year players from the ballyhooed 2022 class are making an impact. Florida continues to build for the future itself. A win would boost either program. Mark and Edgar discuss the matchup during the latest Swamp Things.
- Mark on hot mic (1:35)
- Texas A&M’s future (10:08)
- Expectations: A close game (13:48)
- Urban Meyer in Gainesville (16:15)
- Jimbo Fisher’s history with Gators (19:12)
- Teams hitting QB early and hard (24:39)
- Big screens are part of the game (28:31)
- Florida needs to score points (30:09)
- Fisher’s poor timing (35:00)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Basketball (37:30)
- SEC Pick Six (41:02)
A 42-20 loss to top-ranked, heavily favored Georgia left the Gators 4-4 and 1-4 in the SEC for the first time since 1979. Billy Napier’s team enters the final month of his first season seeking bowl eligibility while aiming to establish a foundation for the future. Two days after the Georgia loss, Napier made a statement about expectations when he dismissed top pass rusher Brenton Cox Jr. — a big blow for a struggling defense. But the November schedule softens, beginning with Saturday’s visit to Texas A&M. The biggest date ahead is Dec. 19 Signing Day. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss pivotal two months for the Gators’ program.
- Brenton Cox Jr. dismissed from team (1:49)
- ‘It’s bad every which way you cut it’ (9:15)
- ‘Mentally tough but not tough enough’ (12:30)
- 'Gators need to learn how to win' (17:08)
- Questionable calls or playing to strengths? (19:22)
- All eyes on SEC: Georgia vs. Tennessee (27:30)
- Florida’s best case closing out season (29:15)
- Dec. 19: Early Signing Day (33:44)
Coach Billy Napier and the Gators face their biggest test of a challenging season Saturday in Jacksonville against the rival Bulldogs. A matchup with the reigning national champions offers a golden opportunity but quickly could turn into a reality check. Napier’s first meeting with Kirby Smart will provide a firsthand look at the program Florida is chasing. It might not be pretty.
- Measuring stick game (:42 )
- Georgia coming from all angles (6:36)
- Gators need a perfect game to win (9:39)
- Georgia expectations (14:00)
- Anthony Richardson needs to get his head in game (17:20)
- Billy Napier’s frustrations (19:32)
- Recruiting: ‘It’s going to get better’ (25:37)
- ‘Before it gets better it could get worse’ (37:15)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Women’s soccer (39:59)
- SEC Pick Six (45:30)
- Will future games be in Jacksonville? (52:58)
The Gators head into their bye week smarting from a fourth straight loss to LSU, this time a 45-35 decision Saturday night in the Swamp. Even so, there’s no rest for the weary as Billy Napier prepares his team for the new staff’s first meeting with Georgia, Oct. 29 in Jacksonville.
- No defensive improvement since Week 1 (2:28)
- Anthony Richardson (6:38)
- Lack of adjustments at halftime (7:50)
- Offensive line pretty good (8:48)
- Run game can be explosive (10:26)
- This team has fight (12:45)
- Receiving core disappointing (14:46)
- Gators licking their wounds (19:07)
- Prioritizing what can be fixed (20:04)
- Billy’s messaging needs to shift (23:27)
- Georgia on Oct. 29 (29:46)
- Billy’s brand of football (34:24)
- Recruiting is trending (37:17)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (42:10)
- SEC Pick Six (44:13)
Florida and LSU have played every season since 1971. In the past 20 years, the Gators-Tigers have developed into the best annual matchup between East and West. Saturday night’s matchup between unranked, 4-2 teams might not generate much build-up but will be key to the rebuilding efforts of two first-year coaches. Mark and Edgar discuss what the Gators can take from a lackluster homecoming win against Missouri into the latest meeting with LSU.
- Texans’ Dameon Pierce success stokes what ifs? (:00)
- Gritty Gators prevail over Missouri (5:40)
- Jayden Hill, Ventrell Miller & will to win (6:45)
- Anthony Richardson plays flat (9:08)
- Change in order on special teams (10:51)
- Third-down defense major issue (12:02)
- UF-LSU series: A look back (13:05)
- Billy Napier vs. Brian Kelly (19:30)
- Richardson needs consistency (21:42)
- Need more big plays (22:46)
- Grading the Gators (26:23)
- New UF president finalist avid football fan (27:53)
- Jeremy Foley Corner: UF Hall of Fame inductees (31:00)
- SEC Pick Six (34:06)
Florida rolled past Eastern Washington Sunday in the Swamp for a feel-good win and much-needed breather after a challenging September. Billy Napier’s team resumes SEC play at home against Missouri, looking to end a six-game skid in conference games.
- Do sports provide an escape/healing during hard times (:00)
- Eastern Washington: 666 on a Sunday (3:48)
- A look at UF’s backup QB (8:45)
- Gators inconsistent defense (13:20)
- Does Napier’s one-voice philosophy work? (19:16)
- Missouri coming to town (23:23)
- A look back at UF-Missouri meetups (29:14)
- Brian Kelly vs. Billy Napier on Oct. 15 (34:06)
- Basketball opens (35:35)
- Jeremy Foley Corner (39:27)
- SEC: Pick Six (41:05)
- No more lower division blowouts (48:47)
The Gators came up short against their rivals Vols but left Rocky Top with plenty of positives, along with some serious concerns. But Billy Napier’s squad will have to wait until Sunday to build on a big day by QB Anthony Richardson and the offense while sorting out Florida’s pervasive defensive issues.
- Hurricane Ian pushes Eastern Washington game (:00)
- ‘Games like this have to go’ (4:24)
- Past hurricanes impact on Gator football (12:35)
- Tennessee game a building block (15:55)
- Red flags abound for defense (18:52)
- ‘The tape don’t lie’ (27:02)
- Billy Napier’s aggressive calls (31:48)
- Players that stepped up (34:55)
- What can UF get out Eastern Washington? (43:08)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (47:12)
- SEC: Pick Six (50:00)
Billy Napier’s squad heads to Knoxville double-digits underdogs in what has been a one-sided series in Florida’s favor. Winners of 16 of 17 meetings, Florida faces a tall order on Rocky Top.
- Gators rollercoaster (1:34)
- Anthony Richardson: Code Red (8:06)
- Defense: Recipe for disaster (11:28)
- Halftime adjustments (13:07)
- Tennessee’s Super Bowl (15:19)
- Gators need to control tempo (19:23)
- Richardson: Trying to figure it out (20:23)
- RB rotation/TE involvement (30:224)
- Hungry at Rocky Top (33:23)
- What victories still possible for Gators? (35:08)
- Jeremy Foley Corner (43:11)
- SEC: Pick Six (47:04)
An unpredictable, eventful Week 2 in college football made its way to Gainesville. The Gators squandered a 10-point lead against Kentucky to fall for the third time in five meetings with Mark Stoops’ Wildcats. Next up, USF. Billy Napier’s squad and quarterback Anthony Richardson look to get back on track before a Sept. 24 visit to Tennessee.
- Blueprint for beating Florida (1:05)
- Anthony Richardson: Accuracy & decision making (5:40)
- Billy Napier’s aggressive plays (10:30)
- Kentucky’s program (16:37)
- Halftime adjustments (18:58)
- Napier: You have to lose to win (21:04)
- USF game a chance to gain experience (24:44)
- Are fans ready to bail? (28:19)
- Positive takeaways (33:33)
- Jeremy Foley Corner (38:46)
- SEC: Pick Six (41:40)
The Gators, the Swamp and quarterback Anthony Richardson rose to the occasion during Saturday night’s thrilling, come-from-behind victory against No. 7 Utah. Billy Napier’s squad now turns its attention to SEC play and a Kentucky program increasingly a thorn in Florida’s side
- What a night! (1:03)
- How does it accelerate rebuild? (6:18)
- Billy Napier’s game plan (8:48)
- Anthony Richardson: Seeing just the tip of the iceberg (14:40)
- Other Gator standouts (19:59)
- Ventrell Miller (21:45)
- Tyreak Sapp (28:17)
- Dez Watson (33:18)
- Ricky Pearsall (35:10)
- Need a better effort against run (38:32)
- Next up: Kentucky (40:02)
- It’s going to be a physical game (46:22)
- Jeremy Foley Corner (50:21)
- SEC: Pick Six (55:323)
Nearly nine months since his arrival, Napier will coach his first game at Florida. Enthusiasm is high for his Gators’ debut, but the No. 7 Utes pose an immense challenge — particularly for a season opener.
- Week 1: ‘We’re going to find out a lot FAST’ (1:12)
- Expectations: A disciplined team (4:04)
- Rebuilding confidence (10:34)
- ‘Utah is a carrot’ (15:08)
- Defensive, offensive lines (20:34)
- Anthony Richardson: Stay healthy, dynamic (22:42)
- Can PAC-12 team beat an SEC team? (29:25)
- Urban Meyer twist (35:06)
- SEC: Pick Six (41:57)
Nearly nine months since his arrival, Napier will coach his first game at Florida. Enthusiasm is high for his Gators’ debut, but the No. 7 Utes pose an immense challenge — particularly for a season opener.
- Week 1: ‘We’re going to find out a lot FAST’ (1:12)
- Expectations: A disciplined team (4:04)
- Rebuilding confidence (10:34)
- ‘Utah is a carrot’ (15:08)
- Defensive, offensive lines (20:34)
- Anthony Richardson: Stay healthy, dynamic (22:42)
- Can PAC-12 team beat an SEC team? (29:25)
- Urban Meyer twist (35:06)
- SEC: Pick Six (41:57)
College football kicks off this week with a reduced schedule. Billy Napier’s injury riddle team is happy to get a few days rest after wrapping up preseason camp Thursday.
- Kickers & punters (:41)
- Week 0: Uninspired games (2:14)
- Tough training camp: Injuries (5:23)
- Heavener Football Training Center: Pros & cons (7:48)
- HFTC: Missing connections to the past (18:45)
- HFTC: $85M price tag? (22:23)
- Let Anthony Richardson be Anthony Richardson (29:15)
- Who built up program? (33:01)
- Keyontae Johnson transfers (39:12)
- Patric Young: Thoughts and prayers (45:45)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:59)
College football kicks off this week with a reduced schedule. Billy Napier’s injury riddle team is happy to get a few days rest after wrapping up preseason camp Thursday.
- Kickers & punters (:41)
- Week 0: Uninspired games (2:14)
- Tough training camp: Injuries (5:23)
- Heavener Football Training Center: Pros & cons (7:48)
- HFTC: Missing connections to the past (18:45)
- HFTC: $85M price tag? (22:23)
- Let Anthony Richardson be Anthony Richardson (29:15)
- Who built up program? (33:01)
- Keyontae Johnson transfers (39:12)
- Patric Young: Thoughts and prayers (45:45)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:59)
The long-awaited Heavener Football Training Center opened Sunday. The $85 million, Taj Mahal-like facility will level the playing field, enhance the player experience and maximize efficiency for Napier’s program. Maybe most important, the Heavener will bolster the Gators’ recruiting efforts as Napier and Co. continued to make inroads on the trail.
- Winding path to finished facility (2:11)
- What’s next? The Swamp (8:59)
- Facility as a recruiting tool (13:15)
- The ultimate impact of facility (19:19)
- Stadium House (22:00)
- It’s all about recruiting (26:30)
- Legacy players (34:03)
- You scrimmage for a reason (36:37)
Florida’s season-opening visit Sept. 3 from Utah is fast approaching. First-year coach Billy Napier’s unranked Gators will be tested immediately by the No. 8 Utes, followed by a Sept. 10 home date with No. 21 Kentucky.
- Birth of Billy Napier’s program (:51)
- Biggest story this week (6:28)
- Gators only SEC team facing Top 25 programs first 2 weeks (9:56)
- Football, football, football blinders (14:16)
- Napier vs. Spurrier: Penalties (15:40)
- Season ticket sales (21:19)
- Will Florida/Georgia game move? (26:40)
- Recruiting trail (36:58)
- Napier excitement building (40:53)
Football season kicked off with the opening of Billy Napier’s first fall camp with the Gators. Napier’s emphasis will be on team-building and instilling the toughness and discipline lacking with Dan Mullen’s 2021 squad.
- Track & field coach extension (1:42)
- The standalone: ‘No more excuses’ (6:23)
- Friday Night Lights: Missing pieces (10:15)
- Media Day: ‘I hated every minute of it’ (20:38)
- Billy Napier: White sock mandate (23:24)
- Anthony Richardson props (29:39)
- Standout players (34:00)
- Offensive line needs (42:25)
- Positive affirmations (49:36)
- Jeremy Foley Corner (55:48)
Florida’s recruiting and new football facility assumed centerstage as the school hosted Napier’s first-ever Friday Night Lights in the sweltering Swamp. Among the many top recruits expected was Lakeland’s Cormani McClain, the state’s top prospect and nation’s No. 1 cornerback recruit. McClain would deliver the Gators’ 2023 class the (5) starpower it lacks. First things first, though. Napier’s first Gators’ squad opens preseason camp Wednesday with all eyes on QB Anthony Richardson. Richardson’s ability to stay healthy and lead a new offense are critical. Yet questions abound on boths sides of the football.
Florida coach Billy Napier impresses during his first appearance at the four-day football extravaganza featuring 14 teams and 42 players. Few athletes stood out more than QB Anthony Richardson, who shined in the spotlight. Nick Saban's feigned concern for competitive balance, Jimbo Fisher's claim to be a "reporter's dream" and the sleeping giant at Vanderbilt under Clark Lea were among the other topics Mark and Edgar touched upon during a wide-ranging discussion in the latest Swamp Things.
The dominoes keep falling in college football and will reach the SEC’s doorstep again. When is the question, and sure to be asked in two weeks at Media Days.
- College football conference fireworks (1:37)
- Who gets Notre Dame (4:37)
- Next moves for SEC (9:40)
- How does this impact Gators? (14:42)
- SEC vs BIG10 additions: Who did better? (20:20)
- Gators release coach contracts (25:15)
- Recruiting gains momentum (30:46)
- Basketball news (34:51)
- Jeremy Foley Corner (40:37)
Quarterback Jaden Rashada left the Gators at the altar Sunday, intensifying the criticism of the new regime. Napier has not coached a game, but is falling behind on the scoreboard this offseason as recruiting misses are adding as fast as NIL deals are flowing to top prospects. This includes a reported deal for nearly $10 million Rashada, leading to a war of words between lawyers in this strange, new world of talent acquisition. Mark and Edgar have plenty of words, too, but keep things collegial during their latest discussion on the state of the Gators.
Early National Signing Day on Dec. 21 is the focus for coach Billy Napier and has Gator Nation’s undivided attention during a busy June. Napier and Co. are in conversations with plenty of top prospects, but can the first-year staff close the deal?
- Recruiting philosophy (1:41)
- Napier selling a vision (6:06)
- What can you do for me? (10:45)
- Bump classes (17:50)
- Facilities & academics (22:18)
- Social media fanatics (26:15)
- Setting expectation (36:33)
- Jeremy Foley’s Corner (43:44)
Mike Holloway‘s track and field program dominates NCAAs, raising the question where does he rate among former AD Jeremy Foley hires?
- Track and field program amazes (1:10)
- Ranking UF coaches: Duds & stars (4:41)
- Do successes in Olympic sports matter? (9:44)
- Analytics nerds (16:13)
- NIL summit (26:31)
- Recruit rumor$ (32:30)
- Golf (39:01)
Tim Tebow’s College Football Hall of Fame candidacy led Mark and Edgar to reflect on the many moments Tebow created and legacy he left in Gainesville.
- Everybody’s favorite Gator (1:34 )
- A bizarre start (5:33 )
- The evolution of Tebow (9:12)
- Favorite memories: Wall squats, red paint, the promise (14:09)
- 5 most impactful people in UF sports history (22:00)
- No scheduling model (29:13 )
- ‘This is the life we’ve chosen’ (37:15)
- Baseball: O’Sullivan at crossroads? (40:03 )
- Golf: Billy Horschel win (48:51)
XXXXX * Indy 500 vs. Daytona 500 (:49) * SEC spring meetings: 8 or 9 games? (5:03) * Scheduling to fill The Swamp (13:13) * Jimbo Fisher/Nick Saban saga (19:05) * Leveling the playing field: NIL (25:23) * Billy Napier impresses (31:31) * Pivotal time for Anthony Richardson (34:15) * Past time to update facilities (40:50) * Tennis (46:20) * Softball (50:03) * Baseball (53:47)
ASU transfer receiver Ricky Pearsall gives Billy Napier a versatile playmaker on an offense in need of them. Meanwhile, Todd Golden turned to Orlando’s Dr. Phillips again to add coveted shooting guard Riley Kugel, who will join teammate Denzel Aberdeen in Gainesville as the Gators’ roster continues to improve. Teams can never have enough depth and talent in the SEC.
- Football: Huge get for the Gators (1:28)
- Basketball: Roster taking shape (5:20)
- SEC football models (9:45)
- Playoff posibilities (16:07)
- Jimbo Fisher / Nick Saban (23:42)
- What would Spurrier do? (25:37)
- Athletic department’s successes (28:13)
Todd Golden continues to boost the roster in men’s basketball while Billy Napier positions Florida to sign a strong 2023 class, with top-rated QB Arch Manning in the mix.
- Basketball: Addition by subtraction (1:05)
- Football: Selling Arch Manning (8:02)
- Dan Mullen lands (17:15)
- NIL: NCAA toothless and powerless (21:14)
- NIL not what it was intended to be (26:51)
- Olympic sports successes (31:58)
- Women’s soccer coach named (35:15)
Billy Napier has come up empty in the transfer portal, while Todd Golden has lost more top players than he’s landed.
- Too early to panic/judge (2:10)
- NIL: Women vs. Men (13:03)
- NIL: Recruiting tool (16:49)
- Tennis, baseball, lacrosse, softball (23:12)
Mark Long of the Associated Press and The Orlando Sentinel’s Edgar Thompson wonder what’s next for Keyontae Johnson as he finally tries to resume his basketball career.
- Keyontae Johnson: Transfer portal (1:42)
- $5M insurance policy (4:43)
- Women’s soccer coach out (8:27)
- NFL draft: Jags (13:38)
- Gators in the draft (15:52)
- Can Gators close the recruiting gap? (21:45)
- Current roster (27:40)
- NIL pitfalls (32:57)
- Scott Frost in trouble (43:09)
There’s no rest for the weary as Florida coach Billy Napier embarks on his annual speaking tour, including a stop this week in Orlando. All the while, the Gators new coach is keeping an eye on acquiring players through the transfer portal or attracting them with NIL. * Elite Gator Guard (:57) * Billy Napier on the road (6:03) * NFL draft: Lean year for Gators (8:28) * Best, worst, surprising Gators in NFL (11:19) * Jags draft: #1 pick (24:23 ) * Gators baseball, golf, tennis (28:14) * Golf: Greg Norman missteps (33:07)
The Orlando Sentinel’s Edgar Thompson and Mark Long of the Associated Press share takeaways from the Gators’ spring game and their own high-speed experiences in light of quarterback Anthony Richardson’s own.
- Hot topic in Gainesville: Speed (1:37)
- Anthony Richardson ticket (6:00)
- Addressing DUI (12:55)
- Spotlight on Richardson (19:15)
- Hunting for playmakers (25:05)
- Napier: No gimmicks (30:42)
- Transfer portal madness (32:59)
- Gator Gatherings are back (38:35)
- Baseball (44:33)
- Gymnastics (47:13)
- NFL draft (49:03)
The Orlando Sentinel’s Edgar Thompson and Mark Long of the Associated Press join forces to revive the popular Swamp Things podcast. The two longtime reporters discuss Billy Napier’s massive rebuild and first spring football game, along with big man Colin Castleton’s big news for new men’s basketball coach Todd Golden. * Big man Colin Castleton’s big news (2:03) * From Mike White to Todd Golden(4:46) * Spring football game (13:18) * Billy Napier’s massive rebuild (26:37) * Tiger Woods and the Masters (30:52)
In the last episode of the podcast featuring Brant and Edgar, the guys talk about the future of the Gators football program and more.
We catch up on everything Florida Gators as we look back on a successful NFL Draft weekend, talk about Edgar's NCAA portal story, and talk other Gators sports.
With six players having left the UF basketball team, we discuss what is going on with the program.
Is it a sign of issues with the Gator program, or just another example of the new normal in college basketball?
We also look at the Florida Gators Pro Day and who left their mark with NFL scouts this week.
The Florida Gators basketball team came up just short of the Sweet 16, we look back at the season and also wrap up spring football practice.
We catch up on spring practice and Dan Mullen's latest press conference and wonder what the basketball team can do in the postseason after limping to the finish.
The Florida Gators begin spring football today and we talk about what they will be looking to accomplish over the next 15 practices.
We also discuss some of the highlights of Dan Mullen's 45 minute press conference on Wednesday and talk about the latest with the basketball team and the start of the top-ranked baseball team's season.
We look at the Gators' underwhelming performance in a loss to South Carolina right after being ranked for the first time since 2019 and then talk some football.
We discuss how National Signing Day came and went without any more signings and how the team is doing well in the transfer portal.
We also look at some changes on the coaching staff and give a quick look at the 2021 schedule that was revealed last month.
We talk about the Mullen-to-the-NFL rumors and if the coaching changes on the defensive side can fix things.
We look back at the missed opportunities in the SEC Championship Game and start to look ahead for the football program.
We preview the SEC Championship Game against Alabama and what Florida needs to do to win.
We break down both sides of the ball and what the Gators can do to try and top the red-hot Crimson Tide.
The Gators also loaded up on defense on Early Signing Day and we discuss the class so far.
And there's also a Keyontae Johnson update.
We discuss a day that began with the scary collapse of Keyontae Johnson and ended with a disappointing loss on the football field against LSU.
We look ahead to coming 10 days that include the LSU game, national signing day, and the SEC Championship Game.
We look back at another Florida win, this one clinching a spot in the SEC championship game.
Kyle Trask was great and he 1-2 punch of Kyle Pitts and Kadarius Toney were too. We discuss this and the defense and break down one of the biggest questions from Saturday - what about those blue helmets?
We preview Saturday's game in Knoxville and discuss the defense's chance to improve its play and Kyle Trask's chance to improve his Heisman chances.
Edgar talks more in-depth about the incredible season the offense is having and we also break down the first basketball game of the season - a win over Army.
Despite Florida's win over Kentucky being boring at times, there was surprisingly a lot to talk about.
On this podcast we talk about the return of Kyle-to-Kyle, special teams excitement, the defense, turnovers, and a sideline tiff for all to see.
All of this and more on this edition of the podcast.
We look at a sluggish performance by Florida, but also a win for the Gators against Vanderbilt.
We talk about Kyle Trask, Kadarius Toney, and the offense and discuss another inconsistent performance by the defense.
We also look ahead to Kentucky on Saturday.
You can read the game story here.
And check out Florida Gators coverage at any time at OrlandoSentinel.com/gators
The Gators hit the road again to face the winless Commodores on Saturday.
We talk about the game and also what the Gators need to do to avoid a sleepy upset and work on to get better for the stretch run.
We discuss Kyle Trask, the defensive lapses, the first post-outbreak trip and the start of the basketball season.
Kyle Trask continued his scorching season in a win over Arkansas and the national media is finally catching on that he should be in the Heisman talk.
We break down the big night for the Gators offense and talk about Trask and his many skilled targets.
The defense gave up too many big plays again and we look at its performance in the game and discuss seeing Feleipe Franks again in The Swamp.
We discuss the return of QB Feleipe Franks and look at the game against the Razorbacks.
We look at Florida's first win over Georgia in four tries and how it sets UF up for the rest of the season.
We break down Kyle Trask's record day for the UF-UGA rivalry and why he should be included in Heisman Trophy talks.
And we discuss how Trask completed passes to 10 different receivers.
We also look at the performance of the defense after the Gators went down 14-0 quickly in the game and what comes next for Florida.
All of this and more on this episode of the podcast.
We preview this week's Florida-Georgia game and discuss how this Gators team is built to beat the Bulldogs.
A depleted Florida Gators football team dominated Missouri on both ends of the field and scored a feisty victory on Saturday.
We talk about the defense finally showing some tenacity and grit and slowing down the Missouri offense.
And while the offense wasn't its high-octane self, it made big plays, especially Kaderious Toney. We discuss Brant's favorite player and how the offense did what they needed to do after going three weeks between games.
We also break down the bench-clearing brawl that took place before halftime.
All of this and more on this episode.
Florida football is back - again - this weekend as the Gators host the Tigers in their first game in 21 days.
We discuss what the team has been trying to do to stay game ready over the two week shutdown and then talk Xs and Os about how the Gators can fix the defensive problem from the first three games.
We also look at this week's opponent and discuss Dan Mullen's thoughts on having to take November 3rd off for Election Day.
The Gators football team is set to return to its facility on Monday, Coach Dan Mullen said this week.
We discuss what that might look like for the Gators and how the team might navigate through two weeks of no official practices.
We also look forward to the basketball season that starts on November 25 and the promise that the team should play at a higher-pace and be more fun to watch.
The Florida-LSU game was postponed after a COVID-19 outbreak in the Gators program and we discuss when football might return for UF.
We talk about how the week went down and how we got here and then look at the Missouri game on October 24 and wonder if that game will be moved and when it could be played if it is.
The Florida defense had its third unimpressive showing in three games and this time it cost the Gators as they lost their first game of the season 41-38 to Texas A&M.
We discuss what is wrong with a defense that gave up 543 total yards, let the Aggies go 12-for-15 on third down conversions and hold the ball for almost 35 minutes of the game. And there is plenty of blame to go around.
We do look at the positive too and how a great performance by the offense was wasted in the loss.
All of this and more on this week's podcast.
Check out the game story here.
The No. 4 Florida Gators hit the road to take on Texas A&M and we break down what to watch for.
From a homecoming of sorts for Kyle Trask to the defense looking for a killer instinct, we discuss some of the top storylines for this game.
And we finish with some rock and roll talk with the passing of Eddie Van Halen.
In a repeat of the opening game, Florida thrills on offense and leaves plenty of questions on defense in a 38-24 win over South Carolina.
Just like last week, we break down the Kyle-to-Kyle connection and praise the offense and wonder how the defense can get things figured out.
All of this and more on this episode.
Also, check out Dan Mullen putting on his headset and mask at the same time here.
South Carolina comes to town on Saturday and we talk about what the Gators need to do to build off a big opening week win over Ole Miss.
We discuss the challenge of facing a Will Muschamp defense and last year's close call in Columbia.
We also look at the ticket situation for Saturday and how there are still somehow tickets available for the game.
The Florida Gators leapt to No. 3 in the country after a 51-35 win over Ole Miss. We break down the win.
The offense had a memorable day with Kyle Trask throwing for six TDs and Kyle Pitts catching four of them.
With 642 yards of offense, we discuss what went right on offense.
We also look at a defense that gave up 613 yards and talk about what needs to be fixed going forward.
All of this plus the 2-for-1 deal with UCF on this edition of the podcast.
The Gators open their 2020 football season on Saturday afternoon at Ole Miss.
It's the first true road game for UF to open a season since 1987 and the first time the Gators have faced an SEC opponent in the opener since 1992.
We break down what to watch from the Gators in Oxford and discuss what we are most looking forward to seeing.
Plus we look at the latest regarding COVID-19, including more positive tests for the program and how games continue to be postponed across the county.
All of that and more on this episode.
We are nine days away from the opening game for the Gators and we check in on how Florida is getting ready.
There are offensive playmakers emerging and the offensive line is showing the benefits of experience.
On defense, the LBs are showing depth and versatility and we discuss who could be an impact player there.
But there's also bad news from Gainesville as COVID-19 cases are spiking at UF with it affecting the athletic department with six football players testing positive and a soccer match being postponed.
All of this and more on the latest episode.
We talk about the upcoming season and how the Gators prep is going.
We discuss Kyle Trask and his role as the face of the program and how he is leaner and becoming a more vocal leader.
We talk about other highlights from Friday's first scrimmage of the fall and breakdown some of the key points on the defense.
We discuss Scottie Lewis and his comments and off the court work in the social justice movement and finish up with some John Thompson anecdotes.
All of this plus so much more as the football season approaches quickly.
A Gators football season seems closer to a reality with practice starting and the schedule set for the season.
We break down the 10-game SEC schedule for Florida and which games stand out including a new weekend for Georgia, a return to Gainesville for Feleipe Franks and the toughest section of the season.
We also look at the first day of practice and who was notably missing and what that could mean going forward for the Gators and their huge aspirations for the season.
The SEC has announced its plan for the upcoming football season and it means 10 conference games and zero non-conference games. We look at what this means for the Gators.
We break down why the traditional state rivalry games between the ACC and SEC didn't make the cuts and why the 10-game conference schedule was the choice.
We talk about the SEC's decision, what this means for game guarantees and if fans will be at any of these games.
All of this and more on this edition of the podcast.
The Big Ten pressed the issue on college football in the fall when they announced they would be eliminating all non-conference contests in their fall sports. The Pac-12 quickly followed.
The SEC has not made a decision or announcement on it and likely won't until the end of the month. We discuss the logistics behind the Big Ten decision and what it could mean for the rest of the country.
We dabble into the pros and cons could be for a spring football season with Edgar playing college football Czar and saying what he'd do if he were in charge.
We also talk about the Gators athletic program and what Athletic Director Scott Stricklin has said about the disease and how it affects UF sports, especially after he announced the he tested positive for Covid-19.
All of this and more on this episode.
There's plenty to talk about in Gator Nation and we lead with Dan Mullen and his comments this week about the plan of action for UF with the possible upcoming football season.
We discuss how Mullen and his staff are handling it and then wonder just how many fans might be able to watch the Gators when the season starts on September 5.
We also look at what Kyle Trask has been up to and his getting ready for the season and a leader on this football team.
With the 'Gator Bait' cheer decision from UF just announced on Thursday, we discuss the reasoning behind it, the fallout and why we think the University of Florida got this one right and Gator fans should be proud.
All of this plus the name and likeness news that hit this week is on this edition of the podcast.
Dan Mullen is helping with math and spending quality time with his family. That's what he revealed on Monday when speaking to the media for the first time during this shutdown.
We discuss his comments and how he's staying busy and what he and his staff are doing to try and make sure this team is ready when football season comes back.
We also look into Greg Sankey's comments about the SEC and talk about what might go in to making this college football season happen.
We're back and talking about the coronavirus and the impact it might have on college sports as a whole, especially if there is no football this fall.
We also preview the NFL Draft and where Florida Gators football players might be going this week. Did the lack of in-person workouts and interviews hurt or help the Gators in the draft?
And Percy Harvin is back! Harvin wants to return to the NFL so we talk about that and how we are not sure his worth has been appreciated at UF yet.
All of this and more on this episode of the podcast.
Even though there are no sports being played, we can still discuss Gators athletics.
We talk about the (hopefully) upcoming football season and the challenges that will be facing the Gators as the time lost to the Covid-19 pandemic increases.
What might a preseason look like and how difficult is it for coaches right now to not be able to control things in the program that they like to.
We also look back on the roller coaster basketball season and wonder what the roster might look like next year as several Gators could test the pro waters.
And we lament the lost of the spring sports season and the strong UF teams that won't get a chance to compete for more national titles.
We wish everybody good health and comfort during this tough time and hope that a little break to think about the Gators is helpful.
The podcast is back and football will be back next Monday with spring football.
We look at some of the position battles that have our attention going into the spring and we also discuss players we are looking forward to checking out.
We also catch up on the basketball team just days before the start of the SEC Tournament.
We ring in the New Year with one final look back to the 2019 season and the Orange Bowl win over Virginia.
We also discuss:
- Who is going pro - but more importantly, who is coming back.
- Eleven recruits are already on campus as early enrollees.
- The Mississippi State head coaching job and how it could affect the Gators.
- And the basketball team and the start of the SEC season that saw the Gators use a school-record comeback to beat Alabama.
Dan Mullen and the Florida Gators ended Early Signing Day with the 8th-ranked class in the country with a bunch of four-star recruits that should add depth and fill some needs on the defensive end.
Along with talking about the highlights in this class so far, we also look ahead to the Orange Bowl and how this team looks committed to playing at its best.
Just as Brant predicted many weeks ago, the Florida Gators are Orange Bowl-bound for the postseason.
We talk about the selection, the ranking, the opponent and why fans should be excited for this game - even if it's not the marque tilt that some would like.
Florida snapped a long home-losing skid against its rival in dominating fashion, winning 40-17.
We discuss what went right and the success of this senior class.
We also look at where Florida might go bowling and if there's a chance for a New Year's Day Six bowl after Auburn stunned Alabama on Saturday.
With Penn State and Baylor both ranked above Florida in the latest College Football Playoff rankings, we talk about what that means for Florida's postseason location and a potential New Year's Day Six bowl game.
We also look ahead to Saturday's game against Florida State where the Gators will try to beat their rivals at home for the first time since 2009.
It was a similar story on Saturday: Great defense, solid passing game and no running attack.
We look back on the final SEC game of the season and peek ahead to what's still to come in Florida's final two games.
Everybody would like to know where the Gators will be spending the holidays but it's not a simple answer at this point. We look at the potential landing spots for Florida and discuss which teams to keep an eye on that will impact it all.
We also look ahead to Missouri on Saturday and discuss the disappointment on the hardwood for the basketball team this past Sunday.
Florida bounced back wonderfully after the disappointment in Jacksonville, pulling away in the second half in a shutout win over Vanderbilt.
We look back at the win and what to watch going forward for the Gators.
Vanderbilt comes to town for a noon start on Saturday and Florida will look to avoid poor post-Georgia performances that have plagued the team in recent years.
We look at the matchup and talk about some new holes on each side of the ball with some injuries and a transfer leaving some spots open.
Also, the Gators opened up the basketball season on Tuesday night and we talk a little hoops.
We look back at Florida’s disappointing loss to Georgia and what went wrong - and what is still left to play for.
Nearly everything is on the line on Saturday when Florida and Georgia meet up in Jacksonville.
Bragging rights, the SEC East and a potential spot in the College Football Playoff.
We look at the big game this weekend and discuss what Florida will need to do to top the Bulldogs and stay in the hunt for the postseason's biggest prize.
The Florida Gators football team is off this Saturday and prepping for Georgia.
We look at the latest news from the football team and peek ahead to the upcoming basketball season on this episode.
We look back at a rainy, sleepy Saturday that saw the Gators start sluggishly but rally for an important SEC win ahead of a bye week.
We look ahead to the Gators' visit to Columbia on Saturday and if we'll see more of Leak-Tebow Part II.
We also discuss if Florida can still make the College Football Playoff this season.
There was plenty of positive things to take from Florida's 42-28 loss to LSU.
We focus on the offense and the execution of Dan Mullen's gameplan and talk about how this loss doesn't keep any of the season goals from being attained.
We look ahead to Florida's visit to Baton Rouge to face LSU this Saturday.
It will be a meeting of strengths as Florida's tough defense goes head-to-head with the Tigers' top scoring offense.
We break down what to watch for this weekend in a meeting of top 10 teams.
Let's all hail the Florida defense. We talk about the terrific performance on that side of the ball by the Gators as they shut down the Auburn attack.
We also talk about a game that was filled with turnovers, odd play calls and the normal craziness that seems to come when these two teams play each other.
Two top-ten teams meet at The Swamp for the first time since 2012 when the 10th-ranked Gators host the 7th-ranked Tigers.
The visit is Auburn's first to Gainesville since 2007.
We look at some of the key points in the game with Auburn boasting of the best run offenses and defenses in the SEC.
Florida quarterback Kyle Trask had a near-perfect day in the pocket as the Gators beat FCS Towson 38-0.
We look back at the game and discuss the good and the bad and we take our first look this week at the Auburn game.
With Auburn and LSU looming, we discuss this weekend's Towson game and what we are looking for from this team - stay healthy and open up the offense. The Gators suffered two serious injuries against UT-Martin earlier this month and the team will need to avoid that this week while also giving injured players more time to rest up ahead of a brutal back-to-back to start October. Will the offense open up more for Kyle Trask? And will the running game get going finally? We discuss both chances. We also look at FCS scheduling and the pros and cons of it and wonder if fans are getting tired of having these games liter the home slate. Finally, the basketball team held it’s Media Day on Tuesday and practice begins on Friday for one of the most highly-anticipated seasons in recent memory. We look at why you should be excited about this team too.
Kyle Trask is the main topic as we look at the quarterback's strong debut start, leading the Gators to a 34-3 pounding of the Tennessee Volunteers.
We discuss Trask's accuracy, decision-making, and poise as we ponder whether the offense needs to be adjusted a bit to take advantage of his skill set.
We also look at a running game that still can't get going and an opportunistic defense that created havoc against a really bad Tennessee team all afternoon long.
And yes, we discuss just how bad this Vols team is - from lacking quality players to coaching deficiencies and more.
All of this and more on this version of Swamp Things.
For the first time in 19 games, the Florida Gators will have a new starting quarterback on Saturday when they host rival Tennessee.
Kyle Trask will lead the Gators at home on Saturday after starting quarterback Feleipe Franks suffered a devastating season-ending injury. Trask was efficient and productive, leading the Gators back from 21-10 down to a win at Kentucky.
We discuss what the Gators offense might look like going forward with Trask at the helm and who could excel most on the offensive side of the ball.
We also look at the Volunteers who have been struggling this season again.
All of this and more on this podcast.
The Florida Gators' football season took a drastic turn when Feleipe Franks went down in the third quarter against Kentucky with a season-ending injury.
We talk about Franks' injury (dislocated ankle) and the play of Kyle Trask, coming off the bench to lead the Gators to a come-from-behind 29-22 victory.
We also discuss some questionable coaching moves on each side and again address concerns with the offensive line, which failed to open up holes to kickstart the running game.
The defense is also discussed with David Reese saving the day and a pass rush neutralized by injuries with Jabari Zuniga and Jonathan Greenard both leaving the game with lower leg issues.
All of this and more on a jam-packed podcast following the win.
We preview the game this weekend and look at keys to watch on both sides of the ball including:
- Feleipe Franks will look to build off of his near-perfect game against UT-Martin against a young and inexperienced Wildcats defensive backfield.
- How the Florida running backs can fare against a tough and big front four of Kentucky.
- Junior transfer quarterback Sawyer Smith will get the start and the Gators defense will look to add to its FBS-leading sack total.
We also take a few moments to remember Neiron Ball. The former Florida Gator passed away this week at age 27.
Florida extended its home opening win streak to 29 consecutive years with a 45-0 win over UT-Martin.
Some of the topics we discuss on this podcast:
- Feleipe Franks' near perfect day passing
- Two worrisome injuries to key players
- The continued struggles of the offensive line
- More gaudy numbers from an aggressive defense.
The Gators host UT-Martin in the home-opener on Saturday as a 41-point favorite, Florida will look to use this game to improve on some issues stemming from the season-opening win over Miami.
On this podcast we address a few things to look for in this game:
- Improving on the number of missed tackles on defense
- Holding onto the football and reducing the turnover number
- Continued growth and improvement on the O-Line
- Keeping guys healthy while also getting them game reps
We also discuss how UF's win over Miami looks even more impressive after the putrid performance by the SEC East in Week 1 and we tackle Jachai Polite's cut from the Jets and how head coach Dan Mullen views it.
The Florida Gators started the season 1-0 with a 24-20 win over Miami.
We talk about what went right for the Gators - what went wrong - and what this team needs to work on before they take the field again in two weeks.
Football season is here!
We look ahead to the season kickoff against Miami in Orlando and talk about the key points on each side of the ball.
We also talk about the Florida offense and the argument that Florida shouldn't be scheduling games against Miami.
Fall camp is coming to an end in Gainesville with the game week prep for Miami coming up after this weekend.
We look back at the final scrimmage and what we were told went right and talk about our picks for breakout players this season.
We also talk about the John Huggins saga and the arrival of Brenton Cox Jr.
All of this and more on this edition of Swamp Things.
Fall camp is halfway complete and we catch up after the first scrimmage and dissect some of what Dan Mullen said about it.
We talk about the need for consistency and how the team is still looking for leadership or an "Alpha Dog."
We also look at the defensive backfield that lost DB C.J. McWilliams for the season with an Achilles injury and that has been missing John Huggins so far this fall camp.
All of this and more on this episode of the podcast.
The Florida Gators preparations for the 2019 season are five practices in and we catch up on some of the bigger topics to come out from camp so far.
On this podcast we discuss:
- How much access does the media have to practice and how does that reflect in the coverage.
- The juggling act for coaches to give young talent reps when they are positioned behind solid veterans.
- The offensive line, because everything this fall rests on the offensive line.
This and much more on this week's podcast.
High expectations is the theme ahead of this year's Florida Gators football season.
We look at the things to watch as fall camp begins including the absence of a quarterback race, the biggest questions marks around the team and we give you a list of players to watch over the next four weeks.
Feleipe Franks, Lamical Perine, and Jabari Zuniga will be representing the Florida Gators at next week's unofficial kickoff to the college football season - SEC Media Days.
Edgar talks about what he's looking forward to seeing at the event in Hoover, Alabama.
We also look at the 2019 recruiting class that continues to see attrition as another recruit fails to quality academically with a couple more possibly waiting to meet the same fate.
Along with saying goodbye to George "Mr. Two Bits" Edmondson, we look at the latest basketball team addition, graduate transfer Kerry Blackshear Jr.
Edgar and Brant talk about the main storylines to come out of the SEC spring meetings, including:
- The transfer portal and the thoughts on it from SEC coaches
- Drinking at SEC games could become a reality this season
- The SEC begins a comprehensive official review system
We also look at the two big stories surrounding the basketball team and look ahead to Friday night's NCAA Outdoor Track and Field National Championships and which Gators will be going for a national crown.
It's never good to have attention on your football team in mid-May and that is certainly the case in Gainesville with the University of Florida dealing with multiple alleged abuses and the losing of two highly regarded recruits - for two vastly different reasons.
Dan Mullen has responded to questions the past two days and we look into his comments and if they are enough to satisfy the public image of the Gators and how this could affect recruiting and the team going forward.
It's not a podcast you want to have to record, but it's a topic we couldn't ignore.
We look back at the Florida Gators' spring game while also looking forward as to what it means over the summer and heading into fall camp. We also talk about the new basketball team additions and can't resist talking about Tiger Woods at The Masters.
We're back and catching up on spring football, Pro Day, and the basketball team's NCAA run.
On this episode, we discuss:
- Feleipe Franks and his leading the QB race
- The standout players this spring so far
- The biggest question mark for UF football this off-season
- Pro Day and Jachai Polite's struggles
- And the basketball team's great finish to the season and what the future looks like
Dan Mullen and the Florida Gators finished National Signing Day with a flourish and ended up with their first top 10 class since 2014.
Happy New Year!
We look back at Florida's dominating performance over Michigan in the Peach Bowl and talk about the high expectations this program is taking into the offseason.
We talk about Feleipe Franks' development this season and what he can become next season.
We look at each of the five Florida Gators to declare for the NFL Draft and finish up with a discussion about "What's Next?."
In this podcast we talk about what the Gators have been up to since the FSU game, the match-up with Michigan, why people should watch this game and what a win means for Florida.
The Florida Gators had a successful signing day.
We talk about the highs from the day and what Dan Mullen and company need from National Signing Days going forward.
After missing a couple weeks due to technical difficulties, we are back and catching up on this.
On this episode, we discuss:
- The Peach Bowl selection and Michigan matchup
- The Peach Bowl against UCF that didn't happen and the fallout since
- Which players are making NFL decisions and who are we waiting to hear from
- Delays in facilities and what that means for the athletics program
- A quick preview of next week's National Signing Day
On this episode, we break down the 63-10 win over Idaho and look ahead to the FSU game and talk about all that is on the line and what it will take to beat the Seminoles.
On this episode:
- The Franks-led comeback against South Carolina
- Defensive lapses still plaguing the team
- Kadarius Toney and his touches
- Possible bowl destinations for the Gators
All of this and more, including a quick look at the Idaho game.
We talk about Trask’s injury and what’s next in the Florida QB situation and then we look ahead to the challenges that South Carolina could provide on Saturday.
We also look at the struggling defense, the attendance issue and what is left to play for this season for the 6-3 Gators.
We look at what went right — and wrong — in Saturday’s loss to Georgia. Other topics on this podcast:
- What’s next for the Gators
- Feleipe Franks’ play against Georgia
- Emory Jones’ appearance
- Struggles on defense
- The talent gap between Florida and Georgia on offense
All of this and more.
The Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs meet up this weekend in their annual rivalry game in Jacksonville and it has been awhile since the game packed this much importance.
Along with ESPN GameDay and SEC Nation being on the spot for pregame shows, the two teams are playing to keep their SEC East - and College Football Playoff - hopes alive.
We talk about this and these other topics:
- How Florida's defense could create the same kind of problems that LSU's did in the Tigers blowout win over the Bulldogs almost two weeks ago.
- How Feleipe Franks needs to continue to minimize mistakes and the rushing game will be the key again in this contest
- Why Florida's special teams play makes them a factor with intangibles for this game.
All of this and more on this episode.
On this episode we discuss:
- Florida's ability to win games in different ways
- The comeback and what sparked it
- The incident
- More great play calls
- And how Georgia suddenly looks very beatable after the bye week
All of this and more.
On this episode:
- We talk about Dan Mullen’s play-calling and how revered he is across the game for it\
- The rising expectations around this team
- Vanderbilt — What can do they do and what challenge will they pose for the Gators
And we give out midseason awards for the Gators’ MVP, most improved, biggest disappointment and biggest surprise. All of this and more.
In this episode, we talk about Florida's 27-19 win over LSU. Some of the topics we cover:
- The Gators keep winning games in a variety of ways. Against the Tigers, the defense made big plays, the offense executed on the ground and special teams flipped the field when needed.
- The offense is not going at full throttle, but Dan Mullen has instilled a confidence in the unit and his play-calling has been on point in crucial times. They're not where they want to be, but the offense is light years ahead of 2017's.
- The defense came up big with 5 sacks, 3 turnovers and 12 tackles for loss. This unit is also getting better each week.
These topics and more are covered on this podcast.
The Gators won their second straight SEC road game for the first time since 2012 with a 13-6 win over Mississippi State in Starkville.
Here are some of the topics from that game that we discuss:
- Feleipe Franks showed poise and control in a hostile environment
- The defense came up big, holding the Bulldogs to just 53 yards in the second half
- Dan Mullen and his return to Starkville
- The Gators are back in the AP Top 25
Topics on today's show:
- Dan Mullen returns to face the program and culture he built
- Challenge poised by Mississippi State - specifically QB Nick Fitzgerald
- A recap of Florida's 47-21 win over Tennessee
- The promising play of UF's front seven against the Volunteers
- The continued strong play from special teams
All of this and more as we get ready for Starkville.
The Florida Gators and Tennessee Volunteers will meet for the 48th time on Saturday night.
We look ahead at the game involving two teams that have lost a combined 16 straight games against Power 5 opponents.
The keys we look at:
- The running game - The team who has had the most rushing yards in 13-5 in this game since 2000.
- The kickers - Two young and talented kickers could be asked to determine the outcome of this potentially close game
- What does Feleipe Franks need to do and show us on Saturday night
All of this and more on this podcast.
We look back at Florida's win over Colorado State in The Swamp.
We talk about:
- The special teams, which blocked a punt and scored on a punt return.
- The defense, which had five sacks and six QB hurries and held CSU's high-octane offense to just 310 yards.
- Feleipe Franks, who struggled to a 0-for-6 start in the first quarter but finished the game 8-of-9.
- The running backs, who have lost Malik Davis to a broken foot and have Dameon Pierce drawing attention with another strong performance.
All of this and more on this episode.
The Florida Gators will look to bounce back against the Colorado State Rams on Saturday afternoon.
In this podcast we look at:
- Colorado State's pass heavy offense and how a young Gators secondary could be tested.
- The need for Florida's offensive line to create holes for the running game to take some of the pressure off Feleipe Franks and the passing game.
- Edgar previews his Saturday story about the challenge of coaching the first year in a program.
All of this and more on this podcast.
After 31 straight wins, the Florida Gators finally lost to Kentucky, we look at how it happened in The Swamp and what comes next.
A few of the topics addressed on this show:
Who is the blame for the loss?
How Florida lost the physicality battle.
Why did the Gators abandon the running game and how much did Franks' performance play in the loss?
What do the Gators need to do from here?
All of this and more on this episode of Swamp Things Talk: A Florida Gators podcast.
We are previewing Saturday night's game between the Gators and Wildcats.
Some of the topics on this podcast:
- Kentucky's rushing offense and the two-headed rushing attack of Benny Snell Jr. and Asim Rose Jr.
- The struggles at QB for Kentucky so far this season with Terry Wilson and Gunnar Hoak.
- A veteran Kentucky defense returns this year with nine starters back, including projected first-round NFL Draft pick Josh Allen (LB)
- Mark Stoops time at Kentucky and why the Wildcats haven't been able to beat Florida for 31 consecutive times.