Despite overwhelming praise from many regarding their hire of Jon Sumrall, the Florida Gators still received strong criticism from a national media voice. The administration chose a coach they believed would be a great fit for the program, but that hasn’t prevented a member of the national media from airing his opinion.
Renowned provocateur Paul Finebaum joined ESPN host Matt Barrie on his self-titled show to discuss the Sumrall hire. Finebaum was blunt, strongly criticizing the selection.
“Jon Sumrall will only prove one thing for the University of Florida. They were able to beat Auburn for the guy who Auburn wanted. I don’t know what else it proves,” he said. “I don’t know how Jon Sumrall fits there. He fit Auburn very well. I’m not sure anybody fits Florida.”
At first glance, Finebaum offers a bold opinion without much supporting evidence. However, there’s more nuance to his statement.
Did Florida actually beat Auburn to acquire Sumrall, or were they simply acting shrewdly?
For weeks, it appeared the Gators were the projected favorite to land Lane Kiffin, who ultimately chose LSU. Despite competition between the two SEC teams, Sumrall made his own decision—something many seem to overlook.
“We had options. We had choices. My wife and I, we sat down and we chose Florida,” he said. “We made that decision. Florida had to choose us, but we chose it back.”
When negotiations between Kiffin and LSU intensified, Florida quickly shifted focus. They ensured they would not be left behind in the process.
Was Sumrall UF’s first option?
No, honestly. However, relying on a single candidate, especially with college football’s fast-moving finances, would be unwise. With signing day and the end of the season approaching, the administration made a move they believe will benefit them. Plus, for as legendary as Auburn’s overall history is, Florida is a larger school with far more resources.
Finebaum openly questioned Sumrall’s fit in Gainesville. Looking at his predecessor, there are some similarities worth examining since comparisons are being made between Sumrall and Billy Napier. Both coaches found success leading Group of Five programs, with Napier at Louisiana and Sumrall at Tulane after his time at Troy.
That is where the similarities end.
Napier is a stubborn, offense-focused coach who refuses to relinquish play-calling. In contrast, Sumrall is defensive-minded and will allow his offensive coordinator to fully design and implement the offense. Sumrall also brings fiery emotion, while Napier is known as relaxed and laid-back. This difference in demeanor may matter when motivating top-level players.
Ultimately, no one can predict how the Sumrall era will unfold. People can only hope the change brings a return to the Gators’ historically winning ways.
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