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Spurrier Dismisses NFL Rumors, Focuses on Fiesta Bowl

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

University of Florida coach Steve Spurrier and his players arrived in Phoenix on Tuesday, and the coach was quick to quash rumors of potential NFL vacancies. Despite the Arizona Cardinals' recent sacking of Buddy Ryan, Spurrier emphasized his commitment to the Gators, stating he's "proud to be football coach at the University of Florida" and hopes to remain there for "many, many years." The team was greeted with festive hospitality, including mariachi bands and volunteers, as they prepare to face Nebraska in the Fiesta Bowl. Spurrier plans to maintain a normal practice schedule, with workouts beginning on Wednesday morning, despite the team arriving later than Nebraska.

Key Takeaways:

  • Steve Spurrier denied rumors of leaving the University of Florida to coach in the NFL, stating he's committed to the Gators for the long term.
  • The Arizona Cardinals' recent dismissal of Buddy Ryan didn't prompt Spurrier to consider the job, citing an unsuccessful attempt to hire him in 1989.
  • The University of Florida team was greeted with warm hospitality in Phoenix, including mariachi bands and volunteers, ahead of the Fiesta Bowl.
  • Spurrier plans to maintain a normal practice schedule despite the team's late arrival, with workouts beginning on Wednesday morning at a local high school.
  • The team will have a curfew a little later than usual, but will start backing it up to 11 p.m. as the week progresses.
  • Spurrier believes the team's break in Florida before arriving in Phoenix was beneficial, allowing players to spend time with their families.
  • The coach emphasized the importance of the Fiesta Bowl, stating it's "the opportunity of a lifetime" for the players and coaches.

Statistics:

  • 90 players accompanied Spurrier on the flight from Gainesville.
  • An additional 30 players are expected to join the team later.
  • The team already has four days of preparation under their belt, including a 140-play scrimmage on Sunday.
  • Nebraska has three days of workouts behind them, including a 140-play scrimmage on Sunday.
  • Spurrier plans to keep a close eye on the team's curfew schedule, starting with a later-than-usual 12 a.m. curfew.

Sources:

  • UPI Sports Writer JEFF SHAIN's article, dated Dec. 26.

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