WATCH: Billy Napier fires up Florida locker room after sheer domination against state rivals UCF in Week 6

Coach Billy Napier fired up the Florida Gators (3-2, 1-1) locker room after their commanding Week 6, 24-13 victory over state rivals, UCF Knights (3-2). What could have been a tough day turned into a dream afternoon for Florida and Napier at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

After two challenging seasons of defensive struggles, the Gators showed real progress. Their performance against the Knights was a breakthrough moment.

“It’s evident we took a step in the right direction on defense,” Napier said [H/t Yahoo].

A video of Napier’s high-energy pep talk surfaced online, and the Florida Gators Football team posted on X:

“FIRE US UP.”

While his record at Florida (14-16) remains shaky, Napier's passion is undeniable. According to the Gators HC, they needed this spark:

“This group — let’s call it like it is — they’ve been beat up a little bit,” Napier said [H/t On3].

Although the Gators have made strides, the challenges ahead are steep. Five of their next six opponents are ranked in the top 13. Winning even half of those games would feel like a miracle.

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Summary of Billy Napier's Florida Gators' victory over the Knights

Billy Napier and company secured a solid win over UCF, taking control early and holding strong throughout the game. Here's how it all played out:

First Quarter:

Florida struck first with a 13-yard touchdown pass from Graham Mertz to Elijah Badger, putting the Gators up 7-0 with just over seven minutes remaining.

UCF responded with a 27-yard field goal by Grant Reddick, cutting the lead to 7-3.

Second Quarter:

Florida's ground game kicked into gear as Ja’Kobi Jackson punched in a 1-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 14-3.

Just before halftime, Montrell Johnson added a 3-yard rushing touchdown, putting the Gators comfortably ahead at 21-3.

As the clock wound down, Trey Smack nailed a 28-yard field goal, making it 24-3 heading into the break.

Third Quarter:

UCF added a 37-yard field goal from Reddick, trimming the deficit to 24-6.

Fourth Quarter:

UCF showed some late fight with a 13-yard rushing touchdown by RJ Harvey, narrowing Florida's lead to 24-13, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Gators' early dominance.

The Gators' balanced attack and timely defense helped them secure a well-earned victory, keeping the momentum on their side throughout the game.