DONE DEAL JUST IN: Billy Napier confirm a shocking deal done after losing to Tennessee

After an overtime loss to Tennessee, frustration is mounting around Billy Napier. Saturday’s game felt like one Florida could have won, but it slipped away due to a string of questionable decisions.

This game reaffirmed the belief that no level of talent can save Napier. Here are two truths and a lie for Florida heading into their matchup against Kentucky this week.

Truth: The Defense Looks Different In A Good Way

One of Billy Napier’s key offseason moves was adding Ron Roberts to the staff. Initially, he was presented to Gator fans as “the head coach of the defense,” a mentor figure for Austin Armstrong.

However, Roberts soon took over play-calling duties, and the defense struggled mightily in the first four games. A major issue was Florida’s reliance on a soft zone, which allowed opponents to pick them apart underneath.

It’s uncertain whether Roberts is still calling the plays after the bye week or if Armstrong has taken on a larger role, as Armstrong is now more visible on the sidelines. Regardless, the defense has appeared much more aggressive and confident over the last two games. After being unprepared for Mississippi State’s fast-paced offense, the Gators have looked sharp against UCF and Tennessee.

Although Florida benefitted from some good fortune—like an unforced Tennessee fumble and missed deep passes—the defense seems to be evolving into what fans hoped they could become at the season’s start.

Truth: Chimire Dike Is A Weapon As A Punt Returner

We’ve mentioned before that Chimire Dike wasn’t a player we were particularly excited about when he transferred to Florida from Wisconsin. His metrics were underwhelming compared to other players, and after two games, he had only two receptions.

There are still some questions about his ability to make contested catches, but one thing is clear: Dike has emerged as a legitimate threat in the punt return game.

Against Tennessee, he had two long punt returns, and he now ranks 8th nationally in total punt return yards and 4th in yards per return (for players with at least five returns).

Lie: The DJ Lagway Experience Will Be A Smooth Ascent

With Graham Mertz out for the season due to injury, it’s now DJ Lagway’s turn to officially lead the Florida offense.

After his start against Samford, we argued that Lagway should be the starter moving forward because of his higher potential compared to Mertz. However, there are sure to be challenges as Lagway finishes the season. He threw another interception against Tennessee, which set the Volunteers up for a field goal.

With four interceptions on the year, including one on a Hail Mary, Lagway is tied for 53rd most in the country. He’s also one of only four quarterbacks with fewer than 100 passing attempts and at least four interceptions.