Billy Napier speaks about Hurricane Ian impact, praises Justin Shorter’s improvement
By Keith Farner
Published:
Billy Napier and Florida are making changes ahead of the impact from Hurricane Ian, and he explained what it means to him on Wednesday on the SEC coaches media teleconference.
Napier said the Gators are moving things up on the schedule in order to get home earlier.
“Moving the game to Sunday, a lot of people in our thoughts and prayers as we prepare for the hurricane,” Napier said. “… We look forward to the opportunity to get in The Swamp and compete on Sunday and are thankful for all the people who are helping to make that happen.”
Napier also deflected a question about the crowd on Sunday for the rescheduled game with Eastern Washington.
“I think probably most important here is that we get through the next couple of days safely,” he said. “When we get through this storm, we can start having conversations about what game day will look like.”
One of the veteran playmakers for Florida is Justin Shorter, and Napier praised how he’s improved.
“Justin has developed nicely,” Napier said. “He’s a really good practice player, very consistent in terms of his effort, attitude and approach. … The guy’s got tools. He can be a matchup issue. His ball skills have developed. … Good to see Shorter and his hard work pay off.”
A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.
