It has been a rough week for the University of Florida, as the Gators part ways with their coach Jim McElwain after three seasons. It was Sunday afternoon, after the Gators lost their third straight game to the undefeated Georgia Bulldogs 42-7.
Earlier in the week on Monday, Coach mentioned that he and his family had received death threats because of the slow start of the season. Florida was 3-1 but last their last 3, to all SEC teams: LSU, Texas A&M and then Georgia.
McElwain not only led the Gators to consecutive SEC Championship Game appearances in his first two seasons but he became the first coach in the history’s league to advance to the SEC championship game in those seasons. Jim is leaving the Gator program with a record of 22-12 and a couple of SEC title game appearances.
According to GatorBait.net, the buyout for McElwain is around the $12.9 million range. However, ESPN reported that Florida was asking for a reduced buyout around $4 million. However he is still meeting with Florida officials.
@CoachMcElwain tweeted Sunday morning, “I want to thank the University of Florida, the fans and alumni for the opportunity to have been your head coach. My family and I will move forward with appreciation and good memories.” He wrote to the players individually writing, “Thank you for working hard and giving it your all. I love each and every one of you.”
Defensive coordinator, Randy Shannon, will take over as interim coach for the time being.
