GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is ready for the Gators to run back onto the field. And the Gators are more than ready after a month of spring camp.
One team. Orange and Blue jerseys. On Thursday night, the Gators will split into two for the Orange & Blue Game.
The exhibition is the first game day for UF head coach Billy Napier as part of the home team. Napier, who was hired in November, previously coached at Louisiana Lafayette.
Napier has brought along a new staff with him to Gainesville. A new culture. A new era.
In the four months that Napier has been on the job, he has established a line of respect between the players and the staff. Following a 6-7 season in 2021, the program is working hard on and off the field to create a winning environment.
From creating a unique recruiting environment to the organization of practice to the improved food and parking for players.
Besides the on-field additions, Napier continues to emphasize the importance of discipline in all areas of the program. On the practice field, it is evident the role that each player has through the organization of practice.
Billy Napier caps his first spring camp in Florida with Thursday night's Orange & Blue Game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. (Photo: Jordan McKendrick/UAA Communications)
It's about accountability. The need to be disciplined. And creating a family-like atmosphere. These are values that Napier hopes to instill in this team.
Napier talked about what it means to play for the University of Florida at the last closed scrimmage before the spring game.
"To run between the lines for the Florida Gators, you have to be dependable and accountable, and you've got to be consistent," Napier said.
And, in this new era of UF football, the staff is well aware of what it means to rock the Orange and Blue.
"It is a privilege to represent the University of Florida and run between the lines and play," Napier said.
In a press conference at the first closed scrimmage of spring practice on March 31, Coach Napier expressed his gratitude toward Gators fans.
"We sure are appreciative to any and every supporter who shows up," he said.
Safety Rashad Torrence is anticipating waking up on Thursday with the game-day mentality.
"It will be very exciting to wake up and be like, 'okay, it's game day and to go out and perform in front of the fans and show them the things we've learned this spring,' " Torrence said.
Throughout the spring, Napier has instilled discipline within the football program. And it shows on the practice field. The spring game will be a time to execute and evaluate the growth during spring training.
"Coach Napier does express just being disciplined and together and being one and being a full team," Torrence II said. "Whether that's all three phases, offense, defense, game-changers so I mean we kind of put our side of the ball and we come together as a Gator football team."
Tight ends Coach William Peagler discussed the mindset within the team.
"I think the mindset is let's continue to get better," Peagler said. "I think we've seen from day one to now, the guys have really improved."
Although the game is a scrimmage against each other, there is no lack of competitive spirit. The Gators are coming ready to put on a show for the fans, previewing what the fall season could look like.
Junior Tre'Vez Johnson is itching to get back on the field at the stadium.
"I'm ready to compete. First game back in the Swamp. I'm excited, too. We look good, defense, offense, the mindset right now with Coach Napier, I'm loving it. I can't wait."
