Florida Football: Potential blackout game announced for 2024 season
The University of Florida football program has unveiled a series of home game themes and a special military appreciation uniform for the 2024 season, and with it comes a potential return for the black uniforms the Gators unveiled last season.
Billy Napier, entering his third year, has led several initiatives to enhance the gameday experience, including the introduction of black jerseys for the first time in program history. The idea, initially proposed by Napier in May of 2022, aims to pay tribute to the United States Military.
"We're going to wear black uniforms for the first time in school history. I know everybody is excited about the uniform. I do think it's important, I don't want to lose sight of the intent here relative to what we're trying to do," Napier said. "Each player on the team's jersey will display one of the five core values on the back of the nameplate."
The five core values – honor, courage, commitment, excellence, and integrity – were chosen in collaboration with various military branches, the state, and local organizations, each selecting a value to be displayed on the players' jerseys.
Last year, the Gators wore the black uniforms against Arkansas during their "Saluting Those Who Serve" game. This year, the game honoring the military, which would be when Florida would wear the black uniforms, is against LSU.
The season opener against Miami on August 31 will set the tone as "The Swamp Opener," celebrating the return to one of college football's most intimidating atmospheres. On September 7, the Gators will host "352 Community Day" against Samford.
The Texas A&M game on September 14 will be a double celebration, honoring past championship teams during "Championship Reunion Weekend" and coinciding with "UF Family Weekend," inviting the entire Gator family to campus.
October 5 will see the Gators recognize the contributions of UF faculty and staff with "UF Faculty & Staff Appreciation Day" against UCF, offering discounted tickets to these vital members of the university community.
The annual Homecoming game against Kentucky on October 19 will be a true Gator extravaganza, featuring the induction of eight Gator Greats and one Honorary Letterwinner into the UF Athletic Hall of Fame, as well as the celebration of "GatorMade Week," which promotes initiatives empowering student-athletes.
Finally, the Gators will celebrate their seniors on November 23 against Ole Miss, honoring their dedication and contributions to the program during "Senior Day" festivities.
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