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Memphis football coach Ryan Silverfield has the attention of the Florida Gators fanbase. He won over their approval in the simplest way possible – by taking a shot at rival Georgia.
With the program potentially parting ways with Billy Napier in the near future, Silverfield might just be entering the Gators‘ good graces at the right time. He’s piqued the interest of the SEC!
Silverfield is in Year 6 with the Tigers after taking over for Mike Norvell, who left for Florida State. He’s posted back-to-back 10+ win seasons while ripping off three consecutive bowl victories.
Memphis has long been considered a top Group of Five school. Still, it’s been unable to secure acceptance from Power Four conferences.
The Tigers were turned away by the Big 12 earlier this year despite owning head-to-head victories over the league in their last two meetings. For now, they remain stuck in the American.
Ryan Silverfield made waves in the SEC.
The coach’s success stretches beyond the Big 12. He’s also held his own against the Southeastern Conference. His 2021 team took down Mississippi State. His 2023 squad fell narrowly to Missouri.
He’s shown an ability to compete with the big boys. Now, he’s taking shots.
Silverfield called out Georgia’s recent run of bad behavior under head coach Kirby Smart. He took a not-so-subtle jab at the Bulldogs‘ notorious string of driving related offenses.
Ryan Silverfield from the top rope: pic.twitter.com/K5uIq1IEJf
— Jonah Dylan (@TheJonahDylan) September 16, 2025
He called Georgia’s reckless driving a “weekly occurrence” while previewing an upcoming matchup with SEC foe Arkansas. Bulldog hate may be the quickest way to a Florida fan’s heart.
Was it a calculated move? Some believe there is motive.
“Jacksonville, FL native Ryan Silverfield (who likely grew up a Florida Gator fan in the 90s) is jockeying to be the next head coach at Florida,” one UGA supporter wrote on social media upon seeing the viral clip.
While the response was likely posted in jest, the insinuation might have legs.
Florida will fire Billy Napier.
It seems inevitable at this point. The coach’s tenure has been a disappointment since being hired in 2022. He’s gone 20-21 across 3+ seasons.
The Gators suffered an embarrassing loss to instate G5 program South Florida earlier this year. Calls for Napier’s firing have been loud in the days to follow.
Ryan Silverfield is familiar with the program having grown up in the Sunshine State. He’s also held assistant coaching jobs at Jacksonville and UCF.
Could Florida be the next stop? It’s still too early to tell.
The Gators are sticking with Napier for the time being despite the struggles. His large buyout might be playing a role. Speculation on his job security has swirled over the last two seasons. His seat is growing hotter amid a 1-2 start.
It seems only a matter of time before Billy Napier is fired. Silverfield might just be a name to watch given his history of success at Memphis.
With the Tigers stuck in G5 purgatory, the coach would likely jump at a P4 offer.
His predecessor has Florida State positioned as an ACC threat. Could he be the next to revive an instate power?
Silverfield might fall a bit down the list of Florida’s replacement candidates, but he’s already winning over some supporters in Gainesville.