Penn State University's James Franklin is gaining attention for a possible opening in Florida

It appears to be not a question of if, but when Florida football head coach Billy Napier will be relieved of his duties. A tough performance at home against UCF this Saturday night could spell the end of his tumultuous tenure in Gainesville. If he is indeed released midway or at the end of the 2024 season, there could be a big name in his place. Everyone is aware of the buzz surrounding Lane Kiffin, but fans can't overlook James Franklin.

Penn State HC is emerging as a popular candidate to potentially land with the Gators, according to Matt Zenitz and John Talty of CBS Sports. Despite his poor record in high-profile games, Franklin has led the Nittany Lions to 10 or more wins five times in the last eight years. He could potentially stabilize Florida and catapult the program back into national relevance. Considering how the last few seasons have gone, that's nothing to scoff at for fans.

Will James Franklin be available for Florida football?

Of course, there may still be a few more dominoes to fall before the 2016 Big Ten champion can fill that hypothetical spot. It's unlikely Florida will wait until after January to make a head coaching decision, which could sideline Franklin if Penn State advances to the College Football Playoff. The 4-0 squad sits at No. 7 and is in good shape for now, but upcoming matchups against USC and Ohio State could ultimately push them out of the 12-team list.

Whether it's Lane Kiffin, James Franklin or someone else, Florida football wants to make a big splash. But maybe, just maybe, Billy Napier can pull off the unexpected and save his job in 2024. The 2-2 Gators can dramatically change the optics surrounding them and their HC if they soundly defeat UCF and push Tennessee, Georgia or Texas to the brink in the next few weeks.

Fans want to see a sign of life. Napier must provide it or his time in the swamp will soon run out.