Just saw ESPN's top 100 newcomers list and no Florida Gators on it. That's a problem when you look at what actually cost them games last season. The Gators ranked 113th in punt return defense allowing 14.8 yards per return and 98th in kickoff coverage giving up 23.4 yards per return. Those hidden yardage numbers directly contributed to four one-score losses.
Special teams analytics get ignored because they are boring but Florida gave up three return touchdowns in 2025. That is inexcusable for a program with the resources the Gators have. The new staff brought in a dedicated special teams coordinator for the first time since 2022 and that alone should improve the 127th ranked net punting average of 36.1 yards.
The portal additions at kicker and punter are fine but the coverage units need a total rebuild. Florida allowed opponents to start drives at their own 34 yard line on average after kickoffs which is bottom 25 nationally. If the Gators can just get to average in special teams ...