Billy Napier was all smiles after Florida scored an incredible late win to knock off South Carolina in improbable fashion.

During an interview with SEC Network after the game, Napier was giddy.

“This group of players is special,” Napier said. “We had our best week of practice. We’re growing up. A lot of young players out there making plays. Look, we played together, they never gave up on each other. Throughout the entire game. Can you believe we get paid to do this?”

Napier and the Gators shook off some road struggles after they lost at Utah and at Kentucky earlier this season.

“I’m proud of our staff, you know we’ve been through a lot,” Napier said. “To go on the road and win a game like this. The intangibles of this team, the character of this team. We’ve got good people. We’re building something. Better days are ahead, and it’s always good to go into that open date with a win like that right there.”

Napier also said he was especially proud of QB Graham Mertz.

“The amount of work to start 32 games at Wisconsin, to show up at Florida, to start over, the work ethic, applying all the things he learned at Wisconsin,” Napier said. “The leadership he’s shown, and man, what a competitor. Are you kidding me? That was incredible. Kid’s got grit, man. He’s fun to coach. Show up every day excited about being around the guy. He’s what the University of Florida football should be.”