GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier emphasized the need for improved offensive efficiency following Saturday’s 55-0 season-opening victory over Long Island University, speaking at a press conference Monday afternoon. The win marked the Gators’ fifth consecutive, their longest winning streak as 2020.
Napier acknowledged the team’s success against LIU but stressed the importance of preparation as they turn their focus to Saturday’s matchup against the University of South Florida (4:15 p.m./SEC Network) at The Swamp. USF defeated Boise State, ranked 25th, 34-7 in their opener.
“It’s significant that we make a big jump in terms of efficiency,” Napier said. “Really good teams and good organizations don’t make the same mistake twice.So I expect our prep and our process to get better this week.”
The Gators’ defense dominated LIU, holding them to 86 yards, two first downs, and a 1-for-13 conversion rate on third down. Napier noted only two “loaf plays” from the defensive unit.
Both Napier and starting quarterback DJ Lagway expressed a desire for offensive enhancement. Lagway completed 15 of 18 passes for 120 yards and three touchdowns. Florida’s offense totaled 451 yards, including 251 passing and 200 rushing.
“We started a little bit slow on offense,” Napier explained. “Offensive football is about precision and detail,and certainly rhythm. We need all 11 players to do their job, in particular the quarterback and the offensive line, those positions are key to success. [Long Island] did give us some wrinkles, but once we adjusted, I thought overall there was a lot of positive there.”
To watch Napier’s entire Monday press conference, check out the video below:
