Florida football 'could be a fringe CFP squad' per Sports Illustrated
In his 2025 SEC football preview, Sports Illustrated's Bryan Fischer lists the Florida Gators among the programs capable of making noise in the College Football Playoff race.
The Gators' hopes start with sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway. If he can stay healthy, then the Orange and Blue have the offensive firepower to compete with the league's heavyweights.
As detailed by Fischer, Lagway is the key to Florida's success.
Florida's 2025 schedule ranks among the most difficult in college football, featuring showdowns with Georgia, LSU and Texas.
With head coach Billy Napier facing a make-or-break season, Fischer believes the Gators have the potential to be a "fringe CFP squad" if they maximize their talent and steer clear of critical missteps.
Florida's positioned to emerge as a potential disruptor in the SEC's pecking order. For the Gators to contend, they'll need to combine resilience and good health with a few timely breaks along the way.
Here is everything Fischer wrote in his 2025 preview for the Florida Gators.
What SI said about Florida
"It's a big if, but if QB DJ Lagway can stay healthy, the Gators at least have a shot at making some noise despite playing one of the nation's toughest schedules. There are great linemen like tackle Austin Barber back, a tailback in Jadan Baugh who is just scratching the surface at what he can do and a defense that is low on big names but heavy on dependable play every down," Fischer offers.
"Billy Napier is firmly on the hot seat, but if Florida can catch a few breaks and play closer to its ceiling than its floor, this could be a fringe CFP squad."
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