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Paul Finebaum Names College Football Team Poised for a Major Turnaround

In 2025, several college football teams are hoping to build on the momentum they gained at the end of the previous season for an impressive upcoming year.

Some of these schools have struggled for several years but are now showing a resurgence in their programs. One such team is the Florida Gators.

In the late 2000s and parts of the 2010s, the Gators were among the best programs in the country. However, they have faced tough times lately, suffering three consecutive losing seasons leading into 2024.

At one point during the season, Florida appeared to be heading toward another losing record, with a 4-5 record. But then, the team rallied off four straight wins, finishing the season with an 8-5 record.

That strong finish, combined with the performance of true freshman quarterback DJ Lagway, has fostered a sense of optimism for the team. Lagway ended the season with 1,915 passing yards, 12 touchdowns and nine interceptions, despite starting the year as a backup to Graham Mertz, who was injured early in the season.

Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (2) runs with the ball.

On "The Paul Finebaum Show," SEC Network analyst Paul Finebaum expressed optimism about the Gators, but mentioned there is a crucial stretch they must navigate first.

"The Gators have an amazing opportunity," Finebaum said. "I am a little bit concerned about them getting out of that first part of the schedule... I think as long as Billy Napier's bunch can get through there without too much bruising, they have a chance for a big season."

Finebaum believes that the Gators' first six games, which include road matchups against the LSU Tigers, Miami Hurricanes, Texas A&M Aggies and a home game against the Texas Longhorns, could determine the outcome of their season.

Following these challenging games, Finebaum thinks the schedule eases up. However, Florida will still face tough competition with a neutral-site game against the Georgia Bulldogs, a home game against the Tennessee Volunteers and an away game against the Ole Miss Rebels.

Finebaum believes that if Florida can successfully navigate its first six games, the team could end up with an impressive record and build on the strong finish to the 2024 season. This success could also provide them with additional momentum heading into the 2026 season.

The Gators will kick off their season on August 30 at 7:00 p.m. ET against Long Island.

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