Florida Gators Welcome Back Legendary Coach Urban Meyer

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Aug 20, 2025 1:53 PM ET

Florida Gators fans received a jolt of nostalgia when the football program’s official Instagram account seemed to celebrate the return of Urban Meyer with a simple message: “Welcome Back Coach .”

The post confirmed the former college football coach will be honored inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during a National Football Foundation On-Campus Salute on Nov. 22 when the Gators host Tennessee.

Meyer, who led Florida to national championships in 2006 and 2008, is returning as part of the celebration marking his upcoming induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. It marks a ceremonial reuni on nearly 15 years after he stepped down from the program.

Urban Meyer Set To Receive Hall Of Fame Salute During Tennessee Game

The National Football Foundation On-Campus Salute is a longstanding tradition, giving inductees one more moment in front of their home crowd.

Meyer, entering the 2025 Hall of Fame class, spent six seasons in Gainesville and finished with a 65-15 record, the second-best winning percentage in school history.

Fans inside “The Swamp” will watch him receive a Hall of Fame plaque that will be permanently displayed at the school.

During his tenure, Florida went 36-5 at home and 11-4 against top-10 teams, posting a remarkable 22-game win streak between 2008 and 2009. Quarterback Tim Tebow also grabbed the 2007 Heisman Trophy under Meyer’s guidance.

The ceremony adds another chapter to a storied rivalry matchup against Tennessee, which dates back to 1916, with 54 meetings where Florida holds the series edge at 32-22. It serves as a celebration of Meyer’s enduring legacy.

Gators Hope Festivities Are Reminder of Past, Provide Hope For Future

Florida is one of six Southeastern Conference schools honoring Hall of Fame inductees this fall. Meyer becomes the 14th individual connected to the Gators to enter the Hall and the fifth former coach, highlighting the program’s continued relevance.

With the program attempting to regain national prominence, the timing of Meyer’s on-field return is viewed internally as a public relations boost.

His .813 winning percentage remains a high-water mark that current coach Billy Napier is still striving to reach. Against rivals Georgia, LSU and Florida State, Meyer posted a 13-5 record over six seasons. Those victories helped cement his reputation nationally and elevated expectations that Florida still chases today.

Celebrating one of the program’s most accomplished leaders in front of a packed stadium sets a tone of tradition and excellence that continues to define Florida football. A return that reminds the Gator faithful of what once was.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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