In a highly anticipated announcement, the SEC revealed the revamped and re-organized football schedule for the 2024 season.
Yes, we still have an entire bowl season to play – but the announcement provided eager fans with a glimpse into what to expect next season when the SEC becomes bigger and stronger than ever, thanks to the arrival of Texas and Oklahoma.
Amidst the excitement, ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum wasted no time in weighing in on the schedule, confidently asserting that the University of Florida is set to tackle the most challenging slate in the country next year.
“Yeah, it’s Florida,” Finebaum stated emphatically when asked which team has the most difficult schedule.
“And it would be one thing if Billy Napier was in good shape. He is not. He’s had two very disappointing, frustrating seasons,” he added.
Paul Finebaum was the first to say it. Florida has the toughest schedule in the SEC in 2024. Napier better get some reinforcements because I don’t see 7 winnable games on this schedule and I think that is what he will need to coach this team in 2025. Only one cupcake. Oh my! pic.twitter.com/apFfyhoYrV
— Doug Mayo (@UFCowman) December 14, 2023
Finebaum emphasized the crucial nature of early victories for Florida, particularly to sustain their standing in recruiting.
“It’s important for Florida to win and win early,” he said.
The Gators, however, face a daunting early-season lineup with matchups against Miami, Texas A&M, and Mississippi State.
Highlighting the unforgiving nature of the schedule’s conclusion, Finebaum pointed out that the Gators face a tough stretch to end the season.
That stretch includes clashes with Georgia, Texas, LSU, Ole Miss, and Florida State in consecutive games to cap off the season.
— Jake 5⭐️ '97 (@jbluft) December 14, 2023
Following a very disappointing 5-7 season, there is growing speculation that Napier is already on the hot seat – and it may be scorching.
Florida’s complete 2024 schedule is as follows…
Aug. 31: Miami (FL)
Sept. 7: Samford
Sept. 14: Texas A&M
Sept. 21: at Mississippi State
Oct. 5: UCF
Oct. 12: at Tennessee
Oct. 19: Kentucky
Nov. 2: Georgia
Nov. 9: at Texas
Nov. 16: LSU
Nov. 23: Ole Miss
Nov. 30: at Florida State
Do you agree with Finebaum that the Gators have the toughest schedule in the country?
Will Napier survive next season? … Should he be gone already???