News Summary
The Florida Gators football team looks to improve this season under head coach Billy Napier, focusing on key players like quarterback DJ Lagway and standout running backs. With a challenging schedule against top teams and a promising defense, enthusiasm is building among fans for a successful campaign. The Gators aim to redefine their position in college football this season.
Gainesville, Florida – The Florida Gators football team is entering the 2025 season with renewed hope and excitement after a challenging previous year. Head coach Billy Napier is focusing on building a stronger team with standout performances from key players such as sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway and emerging talent in the running back position. Lagway’s recent strong performances have sparked enthusiasm among fans, marking a potential turning point for the team.
The Florida defense, which showed improvement throughout the latter part of last season, has set the stage for what could become an elite unit in the upcoming campaign. The Gators have a daunting schedule that will test their resilience, featuring four consecutive games against formidable opponents including LSU, Miami, Texas, and Texas A&M. Additionally, key matchups against Georgia, Ole Miss, Tennessee, and Florida State are expected to challenge the team’s growth.
Fans can look forward to watching all Gators football games broadcasted across multiple ESPN networks, including ABC, ESPN, and SEC Network. For those who wish to catch the games without a cable subscription, Sling is offering a Day Pass for $4.99, which allows fans to access live TV for 24 hours on game days.
Upcoming Schedule
The Gators 2025 football schedule is as follows:
- August 30 – vs LIU on SEC Network+
- September 6 – vs South Florida on SEC Network
- September 13 – at LSU on ABC/ESPN3
- September 20 – at Miami
- September 27 – Bye Week
- October 4 – vs Texas
- October 11 – at Texas A&M
- October 18 – vs Mississippi State
- October 25 – Bye Week
- November 1 – vs Georgia on ABC/ESPN3
- November 8 – at Kentucky
- November 15 – at Ole Miss
- November 22 – vs Tennessee
- November 29 – vs Florida State
Changes in the Running Back Room
Montrell Johnson Jr. is no longer part of the Florida running backs group, which has paved the way for a shift in the depth chart. Sophomore Jadan Baugh has emerged as a top contender for the starting position after a breakout performance last season where he scored five touchdowns in a single game against Kentucky. Baugh’s impressive stats include 673 rushing yards and receiving All-SEC freshman honors.
Ja’Kobi Jackson, a redshirt senior, has also positioned himself as a strong competitor in the backfield, demonstrating an effective average yards per carry and the ability to avoid tackles for loss last season. With Baugh and Jackson rising in prominence, redshirt sophomore Treyaun Webb, still recovering from an injury, is facing a more limited role. Freshman KD Daniels, who flashed potential last season, is also primed to contribute following a redshirt year.
Newcomers to the running back group include Duke (Waltez) Clark, who had a successful high school career and is already showing promise in practice. Freshmen Byron Louis and Chad Gasper are also joining the ranks, with Gasper working his way back from a torn ACL. Additionally, walk-on Anthony Rubio, son of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, made notable contributions during the Gasparilla Bowl last season.
Defensive Prospects and Team Development
As the Gators prepare for the upcoming season, they face both opportunities and challenges in refining their defensive lineup. The departure of Jack Pyburn, a former edge rusher who transferred to LSU, indicates notable changes in the defensive front, requiring the team to adapt. Coaches and players alike are focused on building cohesion and elevating performance to meet the challenges posed by their competitive schedule.
With the combination of Lagway’s leadership, Baugh’s explosive potential, and a steadily improving defense, Gator Nation remains hopeful for a successful season ahead. The 2025 Florida Gators have the potential to not only contend but to also redefine their position in college football as they aim for victory from the onset of the season.
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Additional Resources
- Gators Wire: Running Backs Position Preview
- Gainesville.com: Florida Football Depth Chart
- Florida Gators: 2025 Football Schedule Announced
- SI.com: Florida Gators Transfer Updates
- Fox Sports: Florida Football Predictions
- Wikipedia: Florida Gators Football
- Google Search: Florida Gators Football 2025
- Google Scholar: Florida Gators Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida Gators
- Google News: Florida Gators Football
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