Billy Napier earned the Florida football program’s renewed confidence with a key 24-17 victory over the Ole Miss Rebels in the Swamp on Saturday. Coupled with a win over LSU the previous weekend, the Gators have now defeated two top-25 teams, securing a bowl game spot next month. Florida’s momentum is building at the perfect time.
National sports media has taken notice of the Gators’ strong finish, rewarding Napier and his team for their late-season performance. One such recognition came from USA TODAY Sports’ Paul Myerberg, who moved Florida up in his college football re-rank.
Florida’s Re-Rank After Week 13
Myerberg boosted Florida seven spots, moving them from No. 43 to No. 36. The Gators now sit between the No. 35 Minnesota Golden Gophers and No. 37 Texas Tech Red Raiders. Florida also ranks ahead of six other SEC teams: Vanderbilt (No. 39), Oklahoma (No. 41), Arkansas (No. 45), Auburn (No. 77), Kentucky (No. 86), and Mississippi State (No. 108).
USA TODAY Sports Week 13 Top 10
The Oregon Ducks remained at No. 1, while Ohio State held steady at No. 2. Notre Dame climbed three spots, and both Texas and Penn State dropped one spot to Nos. 4 and 5. Georgia, Miami, and SMU all rose three places to Nos. 6, 7, and 8, respectively. Indiana fell four spots to No. 9, while Tennessee gained two places to round out the top 10.
Next for the Gators
Florida will finish the 2024 regular season with their annual rivalry game against Florida State in Tallahassee. The game at Doak Campbell Stadium is set to kick off at either 7 or 7:30 p.m. ET, with broadcast details yet to be announced.
