As Florida take on a heavily favored Georgia in the World’s largest outdoor cocktail party, rumors suggest that the Gators have already decided to part ways with head coach Jim McElwain, and the only things stopping this from happening is the size of the buyout.
Darren Heitner has tweeted a few hours ago suggesting that Florida and McElwain’s agent are in discussions about the buyout, which is just under $13 million. Boosters have been contacted to start putting together funds for a new head coach, while Scott Stricklin is projected to make an announcement regarding McElwain, no matter what happens against Georgia.
Source: Agent Jimmy Sexton & UF have been trying to work out Coach Mac buyout, but are “miles apart.” Still working hard on it.
— Darren Heitner (@DarrenHeitner) October 28, 2017
Source: Boosters have been called to pool $ in anticipation that Gators will soon be hiring new head football coach
— Darren Heitner (@DarrenHeitner) October 28, 2017
Source: Gators AD has statement already drafted no matter the outcome of UGA game..
— Darren Heitner (@DarrenHeitner) October 28, 2017
For now, everyone close to McElwain and Florida are disputing the claims, saying there is no buyout discussion going on, and that no one is talking about firing McElwain. However, with Florida regressing and already with 3 losses this season (had four losses in each of his first two seasons) and unable to turn around their offense (123rd in total offense out of 130 FBS teams) including only 23.7 points per game, it’s not surprising to hear about McElwain being replaced.
McElwain was hired before the 2015 season after leading Colorado State to a 10-win season. He won 10 games in his first season in Gainesville, losing the SEC title game, along with getting blown out by Florida State and Michigan. In 2016 Florida finished 9-4 under McElwain, winning the Outback bowl and ranking #14 on the AP Poll. This season, they opened with a loss to Michigan, followed by close losses against LSU and Texas A&M, have left McElwain’s seat hotter than ever.
Who comes next is still very early to call, although Dan Mullen from Mississippi State seems to be the name everyone keeps throwing around. Maybe a win against Georgia, which often happens when things look dire for the Gators, could delay any statement about replacing the head coach.