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Florida Coach Sumrall Addresses Future of In-State Rivalries
Gators head coach discusses plans to maintain annual matchup with Florida State amid SEC's move to 9-game schedule.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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Florida head coach Jon Sumrall spoke about the future of the Gators' in-state rivalry games, particularly against Florida State, as the SEC transitions to a 9-game conference schedule starting in 2026. Sumrall emphasized that the annual Florida-Florida State matchup will remain, but other less frequent in-state rivalries like with Miami may be cut from the schedule to accommodate the new SEC format and focus on positioning the team for the College Football Playoff.
Why it matters
The SEC's move to a 9-game conference schedule will force many schools to reevaluate their non-conference schedules, potentially impacting long-standing in-state rivalry games. As a prominent program, Florida's decisions on which rivalries to preserve will be closely watched by fans and the college football community.
The details
Sumrall revealed that the annual Florida-Florida State matchup will remain a fixture on the Gators' schedule, regardless of the SEC's new 9-game format. However, he acknowledged that other less frequent in-state rivalries, like the matchup with Miami, may need to be cut in order to focus on positioning the team for the College Football Playoff. Sumrall pointed out that the SEC's requirement for teams to play at least one Power 5 non-conference opponent will help maintain some uniformity in scheduling across the major conferences.
- The SEC will transition to a 9-game regular season schedule beginning in 2026.
The players
Jon Sumrall
The new head coach of the Florida Gators football team, hired this offseason to replace Billy Napier.
Billy Napier
The former head coach of the Florida Gators, who was replaced by Jon Sumrall this offseason.
Urban Meyer
The host of the Triple Option Podcast, where Sumrall discussed the Gators' scheduling plans.
What they’re saying
“I think Florida State stays forever. That one, I don't know that it moves regards to how many (conference) games we go to. I do think if your ultimate goal is to play in the CFP, it's smart of you to evaluate what's worked in the past.”
— Jon Sumrall, Head Coach, Florida Gators (Triple Option Podcast)
What’s next
In 2026, Florida will play Florida State, Florida Atlantic and Campbell in their non-conference slate, and open SEC play on Sept. 19 against Auburn.
The takeaway
As the SEC moves to a 9-game conference schedule, Florida is committed to preserving its annual rivalry with Florida State, but may need to sacrifice less frequent in-state matchups like with Miami in order to focus on positioning the team for the College Football Playoff.
