Gators (2-4) vs. Mississippi State (4-2), Saturday, 4:15 p.m., SEC Network
Latest line: Florida is favored by 9 1/2 points
Mike Bianchi, Sports Columnist: Mississippi State 24, Florida 21
Bye-bye Billy. We’ve been writing about Florida coach Billy Napier’s employment status for two years now, but this has the makings of being his final game. It’s homecoming in Gainesville, which means a loss would almost certainly seal Napier’s fate. Even though the Gators are favored by more than a touchdown, the Bulldogs are much-improved under coach Jeff Lebby. They beat defending Big 12 champion Arizona State earlier this season and nearly beat Tennessee. Plus, they are coming off of a bye week, while the Gators are coming off three straight games against top-5 opponents. Can the Gators continue to rise up in an effort to save their embattled coach? Sadly, I don’t think so.
Edgar Thompson, Florida Gators writer: Florida 27, Mississippi State 20
The reeling Gators will pull out a homecoming win against the much-improved Bulldogs as Billy Napier avoids an October ouster. While Florida has not met expectations in 2025, the Gators have a decided talent edge and the home-field advantage. Mississippi State coach Jeff Lebby’s up-tempo attack presents challenges, but Florida should be able to run the ball, control the clock and wear down the Dogs.
Keven Lerner, Assistant Sports Editor: Florida 27, Mississippi State 23
Mississippi State has talent, but Florida (9 1/2-point favorites) should win at home during homecoming weekend. If the Gators win on Saturday, coach Billy Napier should survive until at least the Georgia game in two weeks. UF, which has a bye next week, will be extra motivated with its coach’s job on the line. The Gators have not quit on Napier, who has shown the ability to rally his players, who are still playing hard for him. Three of UF’s four losses have come against top-five opponents and it beat No. 9 Texas two weeks ago. But DJ Lagway’s injuries are just as concerning as Napier’s predictable play-calling.
Adam Lichtenstein, Miami Hurricanes writer: Florida 28, Mississippi State 20
Although the Gators could not follow up their upset win over Texas with another upset on the road against Texas A&M, Florida looks much better than it did earlier in the season. The offense has gone from dreadful to competent, with Jadan Baugh getting more carries and DJ Lagway starting to round into form. While he’s battling injuries that have kept him from gaining yards with his legs, he’s throwing the ball with better accuracy. Backed by a strong defense and the home crowd, that should be enough to carry the Gators past a surprisingly solid Mississippi State.
