The Florida Gators' 2024 season began disastrously with a 41-17 home loss to the Miami Hurricanes, marking the most points allowed by Florida in a home opener since 1906. Only a 71-yard touchdown run by Montrell Johnson Jr. provided a glimmer of hope, as quarterback Graham Mertz struggled with just 91 passing yards before leaving the game. Coach Billy Napier's defense was criticized for allowing over 500 yards, and his post-game comments reflected a lack of satisfactory explanations. Adding to the embarrassment, Napier fumbled with a water bottle during his press conference, symbolizing his team's struggles. The Gators face a daunting schedule ahead, raising questions about Napier's future if performance does not improve. As the pressure mounts, the Florida program's hopes for a turnaround seem increasingly bleak.