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Report: Ex-Florida coach Billy Napier linked to JMU opening
Billy Napier is set to replace Bob Chesney at James Madison after a 40-12 run at Louisiana, with a five-year deal nearing finalization, sources said.
- On Thursday, James Madison University is set to hire former Florida head coach Billy Napier, sources told ESPN, with Napier's agents finalizing a five-year deal and a formal announcement expected on Saturday.
- The Dukes' opening followed Bob Chesney agreeing to take the UCLA job after a 20-5 run, and JMU pursued Napier for his 40-12 record and back-to-back titles at Louisiana.
- At Florida, Napier finished 22-23 and was dismissed midway through the 2025 season after playcalling critics cited his refusal to relinquish the role; he became the first full-time Gators coach with a losing record since Raymond Wolf.
- Friday's Sun Belt championship against Troy carries CFP implications for James Madison University, as the 6 p.m. ET game on ESPN could impact whether the College Football Playoff selection committee includes Sun Belt teams.
- Despite his Florida firing, On3 reported that Billy Napier remains linked to the coaching carousel and outlets like the Dukes, owing to his 3 straight ten-win seasons at Louisiana, which bolster his G5 résumé.
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19 Articles
19 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources19
Leaning Left3Leaning Right4Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution37% Center, 36% Right
Bias Distribution
- 37% of the sources are Center, 36% of the sources lean Right
37% Center
L 27%
C 37%
R 36%
Factuality
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