Blew up on the Twitterwebs and was later confirmed by Florida's AD. A presser is scheduled for 6pm ET, but Meyer did release the following statement:
“I have been a Division I football coach for the last 25 years and, during that time, my primary focus has been helping my teams win titles,” Meyer said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it, and I am a fierce competitor to my core. At this time in my life, however, I appreciate the sacrifices my 24/7 profession has demanded of me, and I know it is time to put my focus on my family and life away from the field. The decision to step down was a difficult one.
“But after spending more than two decades motivating and celebrating the young men I’ve been so proud to coach, I relish the opportunity to cheer for my three terrific kids as they compete in their own respective sports. I know how fortunate I am to be in a position to make this choice and to have a family that is as loving and supportive as my amazing wife and children have always been.”
Quick thoughts:
- Mississippi State's Dan Mullen would figure to be at the top of the list for Meyer's replacement. Some thought there'd be an interim coach in the Gator Bowl, but not many figured it would be on Mississippi State's side.
- Bob Stoops also has some ties, but the job is good enough to get just about anyone they want (talent base, AD budget and all). Anyone but OC Addazio (and the ever shopping Ron Prince) seems to be the sentiment coming from Gator fans.
- When Joe Paterno squares off against Urban in the Outback Bowl, it will be the 46 year old, not the 84 year old, coaching in his last game.
- OSU is battling Florida for at least three recruits: Curtis Grant, Ryan Shazier, and Jabari Gorman.
- Spencer seems to be holding up pretty well.
