Former Florida coach Urban Meyer will be recognized at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during the upcoming Florida vs. Tennessee game this fall. The event is part of the National Football Foundation’s On-Campus Salute, a tradition to honor those who have achieved College Football Hall of Fame status. Meyer, who led the Gators from 2005 to 2010 and won two national championships with the team, will receive a Hall of Fame plaque. The plaque will remain on permanent display at Florida.
Meyer becomes the fourteenth overall member from Florida and the fifth coach from the school to enter the College Football Hall of Fame. While some fans have expressed interest in seeing Meyer added to Florida’s exclusive Ring of Honor—an accolade currently held by only six individuals including Wilber Marshall, Emmitt Smith, Steve Spurrier, Danny Wuerffel, Jack Youngblood, and Tim Tebow—the current recognition comes from his national success as a head coach.
Criteria for selection into Florida’s Ring of Honor include winning the Heisman Trophy; being former University of Florida All-Americans inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for their achievements as players; leading major collegiate or NFL career categories; earning multiple consensus All-American honors while also being named National Offensive or Defensive Player of the Year; and coaches who have won national or Southeastern Conference championships with Florida. Additionally, candidates must have left UF at least five seasons prior and be in good standing with the institution.
During Meyer’s tenure at Florida, he compiled an overall record of 65-15 with a Southeastern Conference mark of 36-12. The team captured two national titles, two SEC Championships, three SEC Eastern Division crowns and secured six consecutive January bowl game appearances—including three Bowl Championship Series games. In 2008 Meyer was named All-American Football Foundation Coach of the Year. His .813 winning percentage is second highest in program history. Under his leadership, Gators athletes earned fifty-seven All-America honors and one hundred thirteen All-SEC accolades; Tim Tebow also won the Heisman Trophy during this time.
Jack Youngblood is among those currently recognized in both halls for his accomplishments at Florida.
