Florida announced changes to their coaching staff on Monday as defensive coordinator Todd Grantham and offensive line coach John Hevesy were relieved of their duties, 2 days after a 40-17 loss at South Carolina. The loss was the Gators’ 3rd in a row; they have allowed 123 points in that time span.

While fans had plenty to say about the news, Dan Mullen and his players were able to address the media on Monday for the first time since the announcement. And by all accounts, the Gators shouldn’t have a difficult time on Saturday as they welcome FCS Samford to Gainesville as they look to secure their 5th win of the season and end their losing skid.

Dameon Pierce, who carried the ball just 6 times for 39 yards, was one of the players that spoke on Monday, comparing the firings of both Grantham and Hevesy to “losing a best friend”.

Mullen has taken more heat in his 4th season than he has at any point of his time at Florida. He’ll hope that with a shakeup of his staff, the Gators can salvage a positive ending to what’s been a disappointing campaign.