Florida and Head Football Coach Jim McElwain Agree to Part Ways

The Florida Gators have parted ways with head football coach Jim McElwain.

McElwain, UAA Mutually Agree to Part Ways

Details: https://t.co/QsGUA7spfI

— Florida Gators Football (@GatorsFB) October 29, 2017

Florida’s decision to fire him comes on the heels of a 42-7 blowout loss to Georgia that pushed the Gators below .500 on the season.  The Gators currently hold a 3-4 record and went 22-12 in McElwain’s two and half seasons. Defensive coordinator Randy Shannon will serve as interim head coach.

Via Florida’s official statement:

“We want to thank Coach McElwain for his efforts in leading the Gator football program,” said Athletic Director Scott Stricklin. “We are confident Coach Shannon will provide the proper guidance to the players and rest of staff during this time and we will begin a national search for the next head coach.”

Why did it happen?

A combination of things fueled a growing tension between McElwain and the administration.

First, McElwain was never really able to improve the Gator offense, even though he was brought in with offense and quarterback development as his calling card. Including this season, Florida is or was ranked 100th or worse in each of the seasons under McElwain.

It wasn’t just an inability to improve the offense though. What really escalated the situation were his comments last Monday about receiving death threats. When pressed for further information, McElwain didn’t elaborate, and the athletic association was unable to substantiate his claims. They later released an official statement saying that he “offered no additional details.”

A press conference with Scott Stricklin is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sunday evening.