The University of Florida Gators open their 2025-26 season this weekend at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, hosting the Long Island University Sharks in a non-conference matchup. The Gators look to compete in a stacked SEC this year as hopes are higher than ever entering year four of the Billy Napier era. Florida closed last season on a four game winning streak, fueling optimism in Gainesville that hasn’t been seen in years. On the other side, the Sharks aim to rebound from last year’s 4-8 finish as they enter into their fourth year with head coach Ron Cooper at the helm.
Florida Gators
For Head Coach Billy Napier, the scalding hot seat from last year has cooled to just warm, but expectations for this Gators team are high. Former five-star quarterback DJ Lagway leads the way, with fellow Sophomore running back Jaden Baugh giving the Gators one of the most dangerous backfields in the nation. Add in an elite receiver corps led by incoming Freshman Dallas Wilson and an elite offensive line and the sky is the limit for this Florida offense.
Long Island Sharks
Head Coach Ron Cooper’s group is looking to establish themselves in the NEC, but after a 4-8 finish to last season they are hoping that Junior Quarterback Ethan Greenwood can help lead the way. Greenwood saw some success towards the end of the season completing 8 of 12 passes for 129 yards against Wagner University. In addition to his 921 passing yards, Greenwood also led the team in rushing with 912 yards. The Sharks will also be returning their sack leader, DQ Watkins who registered 4.5 sacks last season.
Matchup Breakdown
Florida’s high-powered offense will have a major size advantage that fits right into the play-calling style of coach Billy Napier. His run first approach should allow for Florida’s offensive line to set the tone early on the ground and open up the pass game later on for Lagway and company. On the other side of the ball, it is more of the same problems for the Sharks as the Gators touts a top defensive line in the country that will hope to pressure quarterback Greenwood all night.
X Factors
The Swamp: The Gators have one of the best home field advantages in all of sports with few venues being more intimidating. The crowd noise is enough to shake even the toughest of SEC schools so look for the fans to have an impact on LIU’s offensive operations throughout the night
Depth: Florida is a well built team poised to compete in the tough SEC, while Long Island might be able to keep up with starters as the game goes on they’ll need to rely on their depth that just isn’t built to matchup with a premier program like Florida.
Ethan Greenwood: For the Sharks to go into the Swamp and do virtually the impossible Ethan Greenwood will need to be at his best. The dual-threat style of quarterback has given Florida problems it recent years so he will need to use his legs to try to get Florida uncomfortable early
Prediction
Florida’s talent and depth behind the arm of DJ Lagway and the high-powered offense should overwhelm LIU from the opening kick. Expect the Gators to strike early and often and potentially pave the way for the second half to provide reps for the depth pieces. LIU will compete hard, but the mountain that is the Florida Gators backed by 90,000 fans will prove to much.
Final Score Prediction: Florida 45, LIU 10
The University of Florida Gators take on the Long Island University Sharks on Saturday Aug.30 at 7:00 p.m. EST at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. The game can be watched on SEC Network+.
