Spencer spent two seasons as the co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach for the Gators.
Before joining the Florida staff in 2022, Spencer spent two seasons as defensive line coach for the New
York Giants. He also previously coached at Penn State, Vanderbilt, Bowling Green and UMass.
However, the Gators defense encountered many issues this season. Florida’s defense ranked 69th overall
in the 2023 FBS rankings. The Gators allowed their opponent to average 382 total yards per game.
Stopping the run came as a major struggle for the Gators defensive line. Florida’s run defense finished
the 2023 season ranked 11th in the SEC.
The Gators were 5-2 at the beginning of the season, but following their victory against South Carolina in
Week 7, Florida was winless in their next game. Georgia, Arkansas, LSU, Missouri, and Florida State
were the teams the Gators lost their final five games against. The longest scoring run in school history
was witnessed by the Gators defense during the season when they gave up 39 points in four straight
games to their opponent.
In Week 11, Florida’s defense allowed 701 yards to the LSU Tigers during their 52-35 defeat.
In the Gators’ last SEC game against Missouri, the Florida defense was unable to halt the Tigers’
offensive, leading to disappointment. With one minute remaining, the Gators held a 31-30 lead and let
Missouri score on a fourth-and-17 to win the game. Only at Missouri and LSU The defense gave up 1,200
yards in total yards during the game.
All season long, the Florida defense was under scrutiny, but following that match, something had to give.
Staff Changes
Spencer was effective in recruiting even though he was unable to alter the Gators defense as much as was
necessary. Top defensive line prospects for 2023, Kelby Collins and TJ Searcy, were acquired by Florida
thanks to his assistance.
Napier has now played for Florida for two seasons, going 11–14. The Gators staff is anticipated to
undergo numerous changes during the offseason. In addition to deciding to split from Sean Spencer,
Napier fired backup coach Corey Raymond. Raymond was a crucial recruiter for Florida and joined the
Gators in 2022 alongside Spencer.
Be the first to comment