The former head coach of the Gators made it clear that the “ship has sailed” when it comes to returning to The Swamp during a recent episode of The Triple Option podcast. While talking to co-hosts Mark Ingram and Bob Stone, Meyer quashed any rumors, but he expressed that he continues to support the team’s success.
“I want that program to do well so bad,” he remarked. “I know so many people there, and we dedicated a significant part of our lives to that program. But that ship has sailed.”
In light of Florida’s 1-2 start to the 2024 season, discussions regarding Meyer’s potential return to Gainesville emerged amidst worries over the job security of the current head coach, Billy Napier. During a recent segment on The Matt Barrie Show, ESPN’s Paul Finebaum suggested the possibility of Meyer making a second appearance as the Gators’ head coach.
“Well, I mean, we know there were a lot of bad feelings,” Finebaum commented. “I don’t think those feelings are still there. It’s been a long time. And one thing you can’t deny about Urban Meyer is he came within a paper clip of winning three national championships in four years there, and that’s all that matters.”
Meyer’s Record Speaks Volumes
Meyer led the Gators from 2005 to 2010, earning national championships in 2006 and 2008. Following his time at Florida, he coached the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2012 to 2018, guiding them to a national title in 2014 as well. However, he has not returned to coaching since his unsuccessful NFL stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2021, which ended with his dismissal before the season concluded and a disappointing 2-11 record.
Image Source: Urban Meyer @ Instagram
