Swamp Things: A podcast about the Florida Gators
A discussion of Florida Gators athletics with Orlando Sentinel senior writer Edgar Thompson and Mark Long of the Associated Press.
info_outline
Decisions, decisions … transfer portal madness arrives (Ep. 417)
12/30/2025
Decisions, decisions … transfer portal madness arrives (Ep. 417)
The transfer portal opens on Friday as new coach Jon Sumrall and his staff continue to construct the 2026 Gators. Attrition is already underway, highlighted by quarterback DJ Lagway’s departure. Many players reportedly intend to enter the portal, including receiver Tre Wilson. Others could follow, but continue to negotiate, led by tailback Jadan Baugh, receiver Dallas Wilson and edge rusher Jayden Woods. Meanwhile, rising stars, including linebacker Myles Graham and receiver Vernell Brown III, are back in the fold. The question then remains: Who’s headed to Gainesville? It’s a lot of moving parts, but during the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar try to piece it all together during the new age of college football. Cold reality of college football: NIL/portal (00:00) Player status: Goners (6:15) Player status: Still negotiating (13:08) Player status: Coming back (25:45) Announcing returners ripped (30:44) Finding new ways of thinking (36:30) Jon Sumrall’s hires (38:44) Who are the targets? (47:22) College Football Playoff picks (55:35) Men’s basketball (1:02:14) Women’s basketball (1:08:46)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/39568785
info_outline
DJ leaves Gators as Sumrall’s roster rebuild begins (Ep. 416)
12/16/2025
DJ leaves Gators as Sumrall’s roster rebuild begins (Ep. 416)
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway hits the transfer portal after a sophomore slump and slew of injuries left a new coaching staff wondering if the 20-year-old was worth the investment. Lagway’s exit is among many. But reinforcements are on the way as free agency in college football begins, even with the portal not set to open until Jan. 2. Meanwhile, Sumrall continues to build his staff even as he prepares Tulane for Saturday’s CFP matchup at Ole Miss. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss the Gators’ comings and goings. Gators dropping like flies (00:00) Where does DJ go? (8:30) New Gator QB? (17:28) Who does UF want to keep? (22:47) Roster will be unrecognizable (30:53) Phill Trautwein and other hires (32:00) Need continuity for team (40:43) Heisman voters slammed (43:24) College game picks (50:44) Jeremy Foley’’s Corner: Men’s basketball (56:52)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/39429075
info_outline
Jon Sumrall hits ground running, did CFP committee stumble? (Ep. 415)
12/09/2025
Jon Sumrall hits ground running, did CFP committee stumble? (Ep. 415)
New Florida football coach Jon Sumrall didn’t waste any time making his two biggest staff hires, culminating with Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner. Sumrall made the moves while also coaching Tulane to the AAC title to earn a CFP bid and overseeing two recruiting classes. Sumrall’s multi-tasking and expediency is a change of pace to Billy Napier’s measured approach. The CFP selection committee’s methods came under fire after it revealed a 12-team field without Notre Dame. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar praise Sumrall’s alacrity and discuss the CFP's methodology, while also touching on a busy stretch in Florida’s other sports. Home-run hires: White, Chapman (00:00) Miami, Notre Dame, Alabama (21:27) College playoff matchups (44:44) Lane train talk continues (55:03) Jon Sumrall endorsement (57:30) Men’s basketball (1:02:00) Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Volleyball, soccer (1:07:14)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/39341620
info_outline
Jon Sumrall wins press conference, sets sites on restoring championship success (Ep. 314)
12/02/2025
Jon Sumrall wins press conference, sets sites on restoring championship success (Ep. 314)
UF introduced Jon Sumrall Monday to conclude a robust six-week search that targeted Ole Miss’ Lane Kiffin before landing on Tulane’s up-and-coming coach. With Steve Spurrier, Urban Meyer and Danny Wuerffel in attendance, Sumrall vowed to deliver wins, exciting offenses, hard-nosed defenses and impactful special teams. Along the way, the 43-year-old mixed passion, humor and plenty of energy to surely convince some skeptics with their hearts set on Kiffin to give Sumrall a chance. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar are clearly sold on Sumrall’s potential and presentation, while they dug into the details of UF AD Scott Stricklin’s quest to make the most important hire of his career. Jon Sumrall to UF (00:00) Lane Kiffin ending (5:50) Kiffin/Sumrall timeline (10:27) Offensive coach position, DJ Lagway’s future (20:30) Sumrall: Not Billy Napier 2.0 (28:47) Defensive coach position (34:45) Scott Stricklin actions (38:02) New GM Dave Caldwell (45:51) Urban Meyer on Sumrall (49:40) Steve Spurrier on Sumrall (56:08) Sumrall leans in to challenge (58:17) UF vs. FSU (1:00:02) Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Mens basketball (1:05:28) Game picks (1:08:40)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/39239620
info_outline
Decision day for Lane Kiffin coming as Gators hope to get their man (Ep. 313)
11/25/2025
Decision day for Lane Kiffin coming as Gators hope to get their man (Ep. 313)
Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin has a decision to make. It can’t come soon enough for Florida fans, who hope the Gators’ top target to replace Billy Napier is heading to Gainesville. Kiffin will announce his decision Saturday, when Florida and Florida State will square off in the Swamp on Senior Day. A meeting of longtime rivals with plenty of bad blood between them will be overshadowed by Kiffin, who could decide to remain in Oxford or head to LSU to leave the Gators pivoting to their backup plan. As two fanbases brace to be left at the altar, Edgar and Mark discuss the dramatic days ahead during the latest Swamp Things. Does Lane Kiffin know where he’s going? (00:00) How does Kiffin make announcement? (6:45) If not Kiffin, then who? (10:42) Gators collapse under Vols (13:10) Lagway’s struggles continue (17:14) Least anticipated UF-FSU game (23:18) What are staffs’ next steps (30:27) Matchup offense: Jaden Baugh (32:10) Attention paid: DJ’s next steps (35:31) On the spot: Scott Stricklin (37:24) Final thought: Craziest coaching carousel (39:30) Game picks (45:48) Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Mens Basketball (51:20)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/39168955
info_outline
Pursuit of Lane Kiffin continues during Tennessee week (Ep. 312)
11/20/2025
Pursuit of Lane Kiffin continues during Tennessee week (Ep. 312)
The twist and turns of Florida’s coaching search continued as top target Lane Kiffin tried to stay the course at Ole Miss. The Rebels’ push for a CFP berth remained the focus for the 50-year-old amid the push for an answer about his coaching future. While Kiffin remains mum, Mark and Edgar have plenty to say during latest Swamp Things, including some thoughts on Saturday’s Tennessee game and Urban Meyer’s return to Gainesville. Fight for Lane Kiffin (00:00) College coaching search is flawed (8:12) Jon Sumerall (10:29) Kiffin shell game (12:30) Lincoln Riley (14:27) Eli Drinkwitz (16:00) Tennessee coming to the Swamp (18:34) Reason for pessimism (22:20) Matchup offense (23:20) Matchup defense (24:40) Urban Meyer being honored (28:48) Football game picks (33:55) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (36:57)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/39113380
info_outline
Florida fights, but falls at Ole Miss … against the Gators' future coach? (Ep. 311)
11/18/2025
Florida fights, but falls at Ole Miss … against the Gators' future coach? (Ep. 311)
Lane Kiffin Week ended in a loss, but Florida could have the last laugh and lure away the Ole Miss coach. Until then, the Gators’ season continues to spiral, despite their best efforts in Oxford. UF had the Rebels on the ropes, but another fourth-quarter collapse and DJ Lagway miscue ended in the Gators’ third consecutive defeat. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark discuss what went wrong, but more importantly whether the Gators will get their man and land Kiffin. Kiffin to Gainesville, Baton Rouge? (0:00) Turning point (10:53) Thumbs-up (15:32) Thumbs-down (17:20) Second-guess (20:30) Game ball (23:08) Kiffin’s banter (26:14) Billy G postgame (27:50) Locker room view (30:34) Final thought (35:54) Mens basketball (47:41)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/39072000
info_outline
Lane Trains picks up steam as Florida hits the road (Ep. 310)
11/13/2025
Lane Trains picks up steam as Florida hits the road (Ep. 310)
The Gators are bound for Ole Miss aiming to bounce back from a debacle at Kentucky as Lane Kiffin Week comes to a head. Fans would rather return from Oxford with a head coach than a win. UF might have to wait if Kiffin’s Rebels continue their push for a CFP berth. A Gators’ upset would accelerate the timetable as the 50-year-old decides whether he’ll stay or go. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark weigh the Gators’ chances as two-touchdown underdogs Saturday, but seeming favorites to land Kiffin. Gators playing for pride (00:00) Big audition for both sides of ball (3:23) Reason for optimism: Gators auditioning (5:11) Reason for pessimism: Kiffin to show no mercy (9:28) Matchup offense (13:25) Matchup defense Attention paid (18:15) On the spot: Scott Stricken (23:08) Final thought: Tough times in Gainesville (26:53) Game picks (34:10) Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Women’s soccer coach out (41:06) Mens basketball (44:30)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/39027040
info_outline
Florida collapses at Kentucky as Gators quit on season (Ep. 309)
11/10/2025
Florida collapses at Kentucky as Gators quit on season (Ep. 309)
There are bad performances and tough days, and then there is what happened at Kentucky. A week after putting up a fight to nearly upset Georgia, the Gators were beaten down and eventually gave up during a 38-7 loss to the Wildcats. UF’s two trips to Lexington since Billy Napier’s arrival ended in lopsided losses by a combined score of 71-21 - a sign of how far the Florida program has fallen. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar hold their noses, try to make sense of what happened and wonder what’s left to play for in 2025. Bad losses and then what happened in Kentucky (00:00) Turning point (6:50) Thumbs-up: DJ/Tramell (9:24) Thumbs-down: DJ/Tramell (12:50) Second-guess (20:57) Game ball (27:33) Lane Kiffin or bust (29:43) Billy G: Did team give up? (33:18) Locker room (34:55) Final thought (37:48) Ole Miss: Florida coming to poach their coach (39:55) Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Men’s basketball (41:29)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38985910
info_outline
Florida seeks rare win at Kentucky, Gators’ hoops bounces back with a vengeance (Ep. 308)
11/07/2025
Florida seeks rare win at Kentucky, Gators’ hoops bounces back with a vengeance (Ep. 308)
Florida heads to Kentucky looking for its first win since 2019 in the Bluegrass State. The Gators nearly upset Georgia under interim coach Billy Gonzales a week ago. UF now has to summon the focus and energy in chilly conditions and on the road in a game pitting two struggling programs playing out the string. Meanwhile, Todd Golden’s reigning national champions took out their frustration on North Florida after a season-opening loss to Arizona. The biggest news of a 40-point win was the long-awaited debut of 7-9 Olivier Rioux, who made history as college basketball's tallest player ever. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar face a tall order hyping a Gators-Wildcats clash where the first team to 14 points might win. Men’s basketball (00:00) Olivier Rioux takes the court (6:13) Struggles remain (12:14) Florida vs. Kentucky: A look back (18:58) Reason for optimism (22:49) Reason for pessimism (26:31) Matchup on offense (28:22) Matchup on defense (30:07) Attention paid (32:15) On the spot (35:33) Final thought (38:36) Game picks (41:52) Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Women’s basketball (45:17)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38951495
info_outline
Florida puts up a fight, falls to Georgia, national champs drop opener to Arizona (Ep. 307)
11/04/2025
Florida puts up a fight, falls to Georgia, national champs drop opener to Arizona (Ep. 307)
The Gators rallied behind interim coach Billy Gonzales to challenge No. 5 Georgia. But Florida fizzled in key moments during their fifth straight loss to the Bulldogs, leaving the Gators with four games to go and little at stake beyond pride and a lower-tier bowl game. Meanwhile, Todd Golden’s Gators kicked off the season with a 93-87 loss to Arizona in Las Vegas, where the Gators were unable to summon the late-game magic from the 2025 national title run. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark summon their best effort to find meaning in a lost football season while also sharing their takeaways on the reigning national champions’ debut. Men’s Basketball (0:00) Football: Coach Billy Gonzalez (17:17) Turning point (20:27) Thumbs-up (24:38) Second-guess (31:37) Game ball (34:37) Billy’s banter (36:34) Locker room view (42:32) Final thought (48:48) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (54:01)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38910995
info_outline
Gators aim to end Georgia stranglehold, Lane Kiffin Sweepstakes heats up (Ep. 306)
10/28/2025
Gators aim to end Georgia stranglehold, Lane Kiffin Sweepstakes heats up (Ep. 306)
Florida looks to snap a four-game losing streak to Georgia and get on a November run against all odds. Interim coach Billy Gonzales and his players’ resolve is sure to be tested. Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs are not the dominant force of recent seasons and have experienced some close-calls, but still find ways to win. All eyes, though, are on the winner of the Lane Kiffin Sweepstakes. The Ole Miss coach will have a decision to make. The Rebels and Gators could now find themselves in a battle with LSU for biggest name in the coaching carousel. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark lay out the Lane Train’s path to Gainesville and the Gators’ path to victory against Georgia. Battle for Lane Kiffin (0:00) Timetable for landing Kiffin (8:29) AD Scott Stricklin looking for GM (14:21) Florida vs. Georgia (20:14) Reason for pessimism (22:46) Matchup offense (25:58) Matchup defense (27:46) On the spot (33:09) Final thought (35:25) Game picks (40:28) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (47:02)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38813380
info_outline
Who’s next? Florida aims to finally get it right with next football hire (Ep. 305)
10/23/2025
Who’s next? Florida aims to finally get it right with next football hire (Ep. 305)
Hope springs eternal as the Gators prepare for the Florida-Georgia game. The Billy Napier era is over. Interim coach Billy Gonzales has made changes to ignite the SEC’s lowest-scoring offense, upset the Bulldogs and ultimately salvage the 2025 season. All eyes, though, are on who’ll become Florida’s next coach. Ole Miss’ Lane Kiffin tops the list by a country mile with the fan base. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar look under the hood of the Lane Train and discuss a host of intriguing candidates, some realistic options and others complete non-starters. Billy Gonzalez: Green dot helmet (0:00) Why would Lane Kiffin come to Gainesville? (7:52) How much will it cost to get Kiffin? (13:42) Kiffin: Good and bad (16:42) Jeff Brohm: Next in line (29:32) James Franklin: Turns floundering programs around (31:05) Eli Drinkwitz: Grown up in offensive world (33:25) Marcus Freeman: Unlikely to leave Notre Dame for UF (36:16) Jedd Fisch: Loves the Gators (39:22) Alex Golesh (41:56) Brent Key: Strong Florida ties (44:28) Kenny Dillingham: Not on Florida’s radar (46:28) Rhett Lashlee: A lot of moxie (48:33) Nonstarters (50:28) GM hire? (52:07) Game picks (55:35) Jeremy Foley’s Corner: UF baseball coach Kevin O'Sullivan takes leave (1:00:49)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38759030
info_outline
Billy Napier fired as Florida pushes to reestablish program’s prominence (Ep. 304)
10/20/2025
Billy Napier fired as Florida pushes to reestablish program’s prominence (Ep. 304)
Billy Napier was let go as the Gators turned the page on a failed four-year tenure ending with a 22-23 record and on track for a third losing season. UF is banking on longtime receivers coach Billy Gonzales to inspire a talented roster and ignite a lackluster offense during the remaining five regular-season games. All eyes, though, are on who will replace Napier at season’s end, with Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin atop everyone’s wish list. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar weigh in on a decision everyone could see coming, how the Gators got here and what direction AD Scott Stricklin should go to resurrect an iconic program and brand picking up the pieces once again. Billy Napier on brand until the end (0:00) What Billy has built: Legacy good for UF (5:00) Transactional coaching in 2025 (8:12) Napier: ‘I love the game of football’ (10:31) Behind the scenes: Napier had an edge (13:28) AD Scott Stricklin: Napier’s decisions brought us here (15:35) Napier issue or talent issue? (20:22) Stricklin: Next person is taking keys to real kingdom (25:36) Interim coach Billy Gonzalez (28:04) Players’ thoughts (36:30) Who is the next coach and how much will he make?(42:05) Lane Kiffin next UF coach? (45:12) If not Kiffin, who? (48:32) Next coach MUST energize fanbase and donors (50:19) Coaching long shots: Nick Sabin, Jon Gruden (53:03) Timeline for hiring coach (55:22) Keep Gonzalez to keep players (59:22)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38714820
info_outline
Homecoming arrives as Billy Napier's end nears (Ep. 303)
10/17/2025
Homecoming arrives as Billy Napier's end nears (Ep. 303)
Florida hosts Mississippi State during what some suspect and many hope is a homecoming send-off for Billy Napier. The Gators are 9.5-point favorites, but the Bulldogs are no pushovers, either. If UF athletic director Scott Stricklin’s alma mater pulls an upset, he’ll have an easy decision. A Gators’ win will make the timing of Napier’s inevitable ouster trickier. Either way, Napier’s time at UF is coming to a close. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss the drama in Gainesville, along with Saturday’s matchup. Gators host Mississippi State (0:00) The final chapters of the Billy Napier book (3 :35) Reason for optimism (5:07) Reason for pessimism (7:32) Matchup offense (10:13) Matchup defense (12:26) Attention paid: Scott Stricklin (14:38) On the spot (21:21) Unsubstantiated rumor (25:37) Final thought (30:11) Game picks (37:14) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (43:11)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38620660
info_outline
UF stumbles at A&M, doomed by dubious play calls, defensive no-show (Ep. 302)
10/13/2025
UF stumbles at A&M, doomed by dubious play calls, defensive no-show (Ep. 302)
The Gators could not sustain their fast start during a 34-17 loss at Texas A&M, but did have their chances against the No. 5 Aggies before faltering. The loss followed a familiar script, featuring predictable play calling and questionable decision-making, to drop Billy Napier’s team to 0-14 against ranked teams away from Gainesville. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark struggle to find many positives from UF’s latest performance as the end draws nearer for Napier. Gators run out of steam (0:58) Turning point (3:54) Thumbs-up (8:31) Thumbs-down (12:36) Second-guess (17:39) Game ball (24:56) Billy’s banter (28:44) Locker-room view (30:55) Final thought: Firing season (7:59) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (45 :28)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38571940
info_outline
Gators head to Texas A&M for Billy Napier’s latest must-win game (Ep. 301)
10/09/2025
Gators head to Texas A&M for Billy Napier’s latest must-win game (Ep. 301)
Coming off a home win against Texas, Florida looks to build on its best performance of the season with a visit to No. 5 Texas A&M. The Aggies are playing as well as any team in the SEC, highlighted by a last-second win at Notre Dame. A&M also has one of the nation’s best home-field advantages. Kyle Field will be nearly 110,000 strong as the Gators seek their first road win against a ranked team under Napier. Meanwhile, quarterback DJ Lagway looks to make a memorable return to the Lone Star State against a school located just 75 minutes from where he grew up. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark preview what shapes up to be Napier’s biggest game as a head coach. Heading into Texas A&M (0:00) Reason for optimism: Can Gators take this game? (3:24) Reason for pessimism: History best indicator of the future (5:46) Matchup offense (8:10) Matchup defense (12:07) Attention paid (15:53) On the spot: DJ Lagway (19:01) Final thought (22:48) Game picks (28:34) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (35:23)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38531190
info_outline
Gators top Texas during Billy Napier’s latest escape act (Ep. 300)
10/06/2025
Gators top Texas during Billy Napier’s latest escape act (Ep. 300)
Florida’s 29-21 win against Texas ended a three-game skid and gave the Gators something to build on. Billy Napier remains firmly on the hot seat, but the must-win gave the Gators a jolt of momentum heading to No. 5 Texas A&M and their coach a chance to save himself. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss an electric day in the Swamp and the Gators’ most complete performance of 2025. Gators end 3-game skid (0:00) Turning point (2:02) Thumbs-up (5:28) Thumbs-down (8:59) Second-guess (12:16) Game ball (18:22) Billy’s banter (21:13) DJ Lagway (26:14) Player takes (27:49) Final thoughts (30:45) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (35:42)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38489110
info_outline
Gators host Texas during must-win showdown in the Swamp (Ep. 299)
10/03/2025
Gators host Texas during must-win showdown in the Swamp (Ep. 299)
It’s only October, but time is running out on Florida coach Billy Napier and the 1-3 Gators. Things don’t get any easier, either. After consecutive losses to Top 5 teams, UF hosts No. 9 Texas, a 2024 CFB semifinalist and preseason No. 1. But the Longhorns have their own issues, beginning with quarterback Arch Manning. The preseason Heisman favorite has failed to live up to expectations so far, similar to DJ Lagway for the Gators. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar discuss an intriguing matchup featuring two young QBs searching for answers and a coach hanging on by a thread. Texas coming into Swamp: Iconic (0:00) Reason for optimism (4:24) Reason for pessimism (10:15) Matchup offense (14:09) Matchup defense (17:17) Attention paid (20:08) On the spot (27:15) Unsubstantiated rumor (31:46) Final thought (37:20) Pick games (41:23) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:00)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38457555
info_outline
DJ Lagway says Gators’ struggling attack about ‘to pop’ (Ep. 298)
09/29/2025
DJ Lagway says Gators’ struggling attack about ‘to pop’ (Ep. 298)
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway attacked the bye week following a forgettable September. He now aims to lead an October turnaround and save Billy Napier’s job. Lagway and Co. face a tall order: The Gators are last in scoring among Power Four teams against FBS foes. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark wonder whether Florida’s offensive woes can be fixed before Lagway’s sophomore season is lost. Getting to the root of DJ’s problems (0:00) “An itch to scratch on offense” (11:14) Play calling (12:16) Adapting your personnel (19:35) Texas expectations (25:59)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38401295
info_outline
Florida seeks a bye week miracle after Miami debacle (Ep. 297)
09/22/2025
Florida seeks a bye week miracle after Miami debacle (Ep. 297)
The Gators suffered an offensive collapse for the ages in South Florida to fall to 1-3 for the first time since 1986 and effectively sealed the fate of Billy Napier. The Gators will now need a bye week turnaround unlike any other to save their head coach and salvage what has become a lost season that began with such high hopes. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar try to make sense of DJ Lagway’s Sisyphean struggles, Scott Stricklin’s looming decision on Napier and how bad things could get for a program in free fall. Can it get any worse? (0:00) Billy Napier vs. Gator Nation (2:12) Turning point (5:24) Thumbs-up (10:34) Contracts (12:34) Thumbs-down (13:48) Second-guess: Field goal? (17:34) Game ball (23:32) Biggest concern (26:56) Reason for optimism: The countdown is on (30:12) Rumored opponents (33:16) On the spot: Lane train (35:50) Billy’s banter: Excuse-making at its finest (40:24) Locker room view (47:20) Final thought: Zook 2.0 (48:25) Jeremy Foley’s Corner: Basketball (52:26)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38317565
info_outline
UF bound for Miami as Gators’ season goes south (Ep. 296)
09/18/2025
UF bound for Miami as Gators’ season goes south (Ep. 296)
Florida heads to No. 4 Miami for the first time since 2013, with coach Billy Napier’s future and the Gators’ season on the line. Seeking its first win at Miami since 1985, UF aims to avoid the program’s first 1-3 start since 1986. If the Gators, a 7.5-point underdog, cannot upset the Hurricanes, Napier soon could be history himself. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar assess Gators’ chances against the unbeaten Hurricanes, the latest Top 5 opponent on Florida’s unrelenting schedule. Headed to Miami (0:00) Reason for optimism (3:12) Reason for pessimism (6:19) Matchup on offense (9:14) Matchup in defense (11:50) On the spot: DJ Lagway (16:52) Fine thought (21:03) Coaches fired already (24:11) Game picks (28:32) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (33:56)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38270685
info_outline
Gators are ‘close,’ yet so far away (Ep. 295)
09/15/2025
Gators are ‘close,’ yet so far away (Ep. 295)
Florida fell to 1-2 with a loss at LSU, yet coach Billy Napier insists the Gators ‘easily could be 3-0.’ In reality, UF is fast approaching 1-3 with a visit to No. 3 Miami up next. DJ Lagway is coming off a 5-interception night for an offense averaging 13 points against FBS competition. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark recap Florida’s recent road loss and Napier's rocky road ahead. Turning point (0:00) Thumbs-up (6:18) Thumbs-down (8:56) Second-guess (12:46) Game ball (18:40) Biggest concern (20:43) On the spot (25:22) Billy’s banter (27:33) Final thought (31:52)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38230420
info_outline
Gators visit LSU to begin toughest stretch in school history (Ep. 294)
09/10/2025
Gators visit LSU to begin toughest stretch in school history (Ep. 294)
Florida visits LSU looking to rebound from a devastating loss to USF and pick up the Gators’ first win at Tiger Stadium since 2016 — and just its third since 2003. Despite their lofty ranking, the No. 3 Tigers have plenty of room to improve. Meanwhile, UF needs quarterback DJ Lagway and the defense to rediscover their November 2024 form when the Gators upset LSU in the Swamp. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark preview Saturday night’s game as the Gators begin a four-game gauntlet against ranked opponents. Billy Napier with edge (2:47) Reason for optimism (10:31) Reason for pessimism (14:15) Matchup in offense (17:34) Matchup defense (21:30) Attention paid (12:59) On the spot (26:51) Unsubstantiated rumor (29:23) Final thought: Brutal stretch (32:55) Picks (35:11) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (40:27)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38169805
info_outline
What a difference a year doesn’t make for Billy Napier’s Gators (Ep. 293)
09/08/2025
What a difference a year doesn’t make for Billy Napier’s Gators (Ep. 293)
Florida’s flop against USF in the Swamp has coach Billy Napier and the Gators with their backs against the wall and searching for answers. Expected to be the final tune-up prior to SEC play, the Bulls’ stunning 18-16 win could be the beginning of a Florida freefall unless the Gators can turn it around before heading to No. 3 LSU, followed by a visit to No. 5 Miami. Napier took ownership and said all the right things, but his team’s sloppy, lackluster, disappointing performance Saturday looked all too familiar. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar sound all too familiar having been down this path one too many times during the Napier Era. The nightmare that unfolded in The Swamp (:00) Final nail in Billy Napier’s coffin (3:22) Turning point of game (7:15) Thumps-up (9:40) Hottest seat in college football (12:48) Thumbs-down (14:43) AD Scott Stricklin miscalculation (19:02) Second-guess: DJ Lagway doesn’t look right (23:05) Second-guess: Jadan Baugh is so good (26:41) Game ball (28:38) Biggest concern: The schedule (31:19) Reason for optimism (35:35) On the spot: Lagway (39:18) Billy’s banter (43:15) Coach Ron Zook summons Edgar (44:57) Heartbroken, sad & mad (47:50) Final thought: It’s over (52:24) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (57:34)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38134320
info_outline
Gators roll in opener, now begin demanding 2025 schedule (Ep. 292)
09/02/2025
Gators roll in opener, now begin demanding 2025 schedule (Ep. 292)
Florida dominated on both sides of the ball during a 55-0 season-opening win against Long Island University featured domination on both sides of the ball. The Gators got what they paid for against the Sharks, who received $525,000 to serve as a Week 1 appetizer. UF now turns its attention to one of the nation’s toughest schedules, perhaps a week earlier than expected. USF should be no pushover when the Bulls visit the Swamp. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar look back - briefly - to LIU and ahead to USF. Soft opening for DJ Lagway (:00) Young playmakers (3:49) Offensive line needs to get better (5:30) The Swamp was packed (7:07) Reason for optimism: UF vs. USF (9:15) Reason for pessimism: Lagway play (12:44) Matchup offense (7:14) Jaden Baugh (19:20) Matchup on D (20:30) Attention paid (23:27) On the spot (28:28) Final thought (31:51) Picks (35:30) AP rankings (42:14) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (43:40)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/38062025
info_outline
Gators season preview entering opener against LIU (Ep. 291)
08/27/2025
Gators season preview entering opener against LIU (Ep. 291)
Week 1 has finally arrived. After kicking off the season against ranked oppoents his first three seasons, Billy Napier can ease into a pivotal Year 4. So can quarterback DJ Lagway, who is expected to start after nursing injuries ever since the Gasparilla Bowl. But the No. 15 Gators are more than a two-man show. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark break down Florida from all angles ahead of the program’s biggest season in years. Setting the line on LIU (:00) DJ Lagway off limits (6:14) Bland media guide (10:21) Key storyline (not Napier or Lagway) (18:00) Breakout player (29:39) On the spot (25:28) X factor (28:22) Non-conference schedules (31:17) NFL corner (40:19) Gators selling something more (46:00) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (50:33) Picks: Week 1 (53:15)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/37980440
info_outline
DJ progresses, VBIII shines and Billy shuns outside opinions (Ep. 290)
08/20/2025
DJ progresses, VBIII shines and Billy shuns outside opinions (Ep. 290)
DJ Lagway’s recovery from a calf injury continues, with Florida’s quarterback participating in 11-on-11 for the first time in fall camp. A modest step could have massive implications, especially given the Gators’ uncertainty behind him. Meanwhile, injuries at receiver have given true freshman Vernell Brown III even more opportunity to establish a key role. UF’s talent, depth and direction have earned preseason praise, including a No. 15 ranking, for coach Billy Napier’s squad. The fourth-year coach is having none of it, dismissing outside opinions as irrelevant and insulting. Mark and Edgar keep the insults at a minimum and distribute their share of praise during the final Swamp Things before Week 1’s long-awaited arrival. Positive strides for DJ Lagway (:00) QB depth (2:29) Lagway must play first game (4:16) Playmakers surrounding QB (9:53) Billy Napier on praise (15:25) All-time AP All-America team (25:25) Season tickets sold out? (33:11) Anthony Richardson done? (37:20) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (41:21) Urban Meyer salute (46:38)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/37893130
info_outline
Clock is ticking on QB DJ Lagway as Gators’ star turns 20 (Ep. 289)
08/13/2025
Clock is ticking on QB DJ Lagway as Gators’ star turns 20 (Ep. 289)
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway’s health remains a concern as the Gators’ Aug. 30 season opener looms. Lagway’s workload will be modified for a while because of a left calf injury as he also continues to progress from an offseason shoulder issue. UF’s fortunes likely hinge on the availability of the sophomore, who turned 20 a day after the Gators checked in at No. 15 in the preseason AP Top 25 featuring 10 SEC teams - six of the Florida opponents. During the latest Swamp Things, Edgar and Mark run through the Gators’ lengthy injury report, their tenuous quarterback situation and a taxing 2025 schedule. DJ Lagway’s health (:00) ‘Modified for awhile’ (3:32) Other injured players (6:20) Expecting huge jumps (12:49) QBs generating buzz (15:05) DJ or bust season (18:21) Hayden Hansen (23:24) How will team perform? (28:59) Breaking down schedule (34:54) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (40:19)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/37805300
info_outline
DJ returns and Gators ranked as fall camp ramps up (Ep. 288)
08/05/2025
DJ returns and Gators ranked as fall camp ramps up (Ep. 288)
Florida quarterback DJ Lagway is throwing in front of reporters for the first time since the Gasparilla Bowl, a positive step as he returns from shoulder, core and calf injuries. Lagway’s health could be the key to Billy Napier’s fourth season, though the embattled coach now has a roster better equipped to handle setbacks and able to support whoever lines up at QB. Napier hopes he doesn’t have to put his team’s depth to the test against a schedule featuring seven teams ranked in the coaches’ poll, five of them ahead of the No. 17 Gators. During the latest Swamp Things, Mark and Edgar have a thorough, at times passionate, discussion about the most promising Florida squad in some time. Biggest playmakers not 100% (0:00) Backup QBs (7:30) Impactful players have a lot to prove (11:45) Coaches Poll (16:48) Schedules (19:02) Depth of talent (27:43) Justifying buyouts (51:20) Jeremy Foley’s Corner (56:00)
/episode/index/show/swamp-things/id/37690080