Napier's Florida job in doubt after 23-21 win over Mississippi State
Florida coach Billy Napier remained on uncertain footing after the Gators eked out a 23-21 home win over Mississippi State on Saturday, a game sealed by a late interception but underscored by fan frustration and renewed speculation about his job. The victory at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium featured a career-defining play by nose tackle Michai Boireau, who intercepted a Blake Shapen pass at the Florida 29 with 21 seconds remaining to preserve the two-point margin for the Gators.
The win moved Florida to 3-4 on the season, but did little to quiet calls for change. Fans booed Napier as he left the field, and people familiar with conversations in the program say athletic director Scott Stricklin has met with major donors who have urged a new direction. Some accounts have suggested the school could act during the Oct. 20 bye week; the university has not released an official announcement.
Napier defended his position and his players in the postgame news conference, saying, "Yeah, I would say I'm built for it. I'm made for it." He also said he planned to savor the victory: "I'm gonna enjoy this one tonight." Asked about a late fourth-quarter sack that forced Florida to use a timeout and...