By: Benjamin Henderson -- July 23, 2023 One of the common themes surrounding Billy Napier and Florida football from people who believe in his vision is patience. Most fans who see the foundation being built and appreciate the efforts in recruiting see a light at the end of the tunnel. Florida Football: What was Billy Napier’s 4th down approach in 2022?
I like a coach that goes for it on fourth down... however, I think one had to go for it within reason. This below is inexplicable and has to change starting last year... The only two games where Florida football had a net negative in points were against Kentucky, when Napier went for it on fourth and six from Florida’s own 26, and against LSU when Napier went for it on fourth and four from the 12 rather than kick a field goal. One thing he also has to remember, we have the longest scoring streak in the nation by a ton. We cannot forget that when we get into filed goal range, especially if we have no points. The quotes in the red are simply unacceptable... you take those easy points. Now, if we have points, and were near the end of the game, I can see why he would go for it... circumstances do matter. But if this is not even in the fourth quarter then NO way do we go for it in that scenario. And take the field goal if we have no points in either scenario... especially in the fourth quarter.
I agree circumstances do matter. He knew his D couldn't make a stop so he rolled the dice and went for it. I think the circumstances of the strengths of his O and D over-ruled the normal in game circumstances. Hopefully this year circumstances will change and our D will be much improved. I think end of this upcoming year we will be having a different discussions.
I'm re-watching the season this summer, as I do each summer. It's amazing how many 4th down calls actually turned into TDs or at least points. I think there were 2 bad decisions vs UK on 4th down. And in that game our D was great- so IMO he should have punted. But usually we played better on 4th down and it arguably was a big factor in the win vs TAMU and other games too.
I like this view of Napier's circumstances in these situations. I forgot several scenarios, but for the most part he did what he could with the teams that he had last year. This is one situation that he should spend time making a few pages or on how to deal with... if this situation arises. That should be practiced too. This is a good place to make plays with say... an Emory and Henry play-set. Especially if we have no time-outs and we need to force the opposing team to call one for us...
