Florida College Football Teams: A Complete List

Alright, football fans! If you're like me, you know there's something special about college football, especially here in the Sunshine State. From the roaring crowds to the nail-biting finishes, Florida is a hotbed for some seriously exciting gridiron action. So, let’s dive into a comprehensive list of all the college football teams that call Florida home. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or just curious about the local teams, this guide has got you covered!

NCAA Division I FBS Programs

When you think of Florida college football, the big names in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) are probably the first to come to mind. These teams compete at the highest level and are the ones you see battling it out on national television every Saturday. Let's break them down:

University of Florida Gators

Based in Gainesville, the Florida Gators are a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). With a rich history and a passionate fan base, the Gators have won three national championships and eight SEC titles. The Swamp, their home stadium, is one of the most intimidating venues in college football. Key traditions include the Gator chomp and the singing of "We Are the Boys from Old Florida." Over the years, the Gators have produced numerous NFL stars, solidifying their place as a top-tier program. Under the guidance of legendary coaches like Steve Spurrier and Urban Meyer, the Gators have consistently been in the national spotlight. The team's iconic blue and orange colors are recognized nationwide, and their rivalry games against teams like Georgia and Florida State are always must-watch events. Academically, the University of Florida is also highly regarded, attracting top student-athletes from across the country. The combination of athletic and academic excellence makes the Gators a premier destination for aspiring football players. Furthermore, the university's commitment to athletic facilities and resources ensures that the football program remains competitive for years to come. The Gators' impact extends beyond the football field, with numerous community outreach programs and charitable initiatives. Their contributions to the local economy and culture are significant, making them an integral part of the Gainesville community. As the Gators continue to evolve, they remain dedicated to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing the state of Florida with pride.

Florida State University Seminoles

Located in Tallahassee, the Florida State Seminoles are another giant in the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference). The Seminoles have won three national championships and 16 ACC titles. Doak Campbell Stadium, affectionately known as "Doak," is a sea of garnet and gold on game days. Chief Osceola riding Renegade onto the field before each game is one of the most iconic traditions in college football. The Seminoles have a storied history, producing numerous NFL legends and Heisman Trophy winners. Under the leadership of coaches like Bobby Bowden, the Seminoles dominated college football for decades. Their rivalry with the Florida Gators is one of the fiercest in the sport, drawing national attention every year. The Seminoles' commitment to athletic excellence is matched by their dedication to academic achievement, attracting top student-athletes from around the world. The university's state-of-the-art facilities and resources ensure that the football program remains competitive at the highest level. Beyond the football field, the Seminoles are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Tallahassee community. The team's garnet and gold colors are synonymous with pride and tradition, representing the spirit of Florida State University. As the Seminoles continue to build on their legacy, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing the state of Florida with unwavering passion.

University of Miami Hurricanes

Representing Coral Gables, the Miami Hurricanes have a reputation for swagger and success. Competing in the ACC, the Hurricanes have won five national championships and nine conference titles. The "U" is known for its fast-paced offense and aggressive defense. The team's iconic orange and green colors are instantly recognizable, and their games are always filled with excitement. The Hurricanes have produced a long list of NFL stars, solidifying their place as a breeding ground for talent. Under coaches like Howard Schnellenberger and Jimmy Johnson, the Hurricanes dominated college football in the 1980s and 1990s. Their rivalry with Florida State is one of the most heated in the sport, drawing national attention every year. The Hurricanes' commitment to athletic excellence is matched by their dedication to academic achievement, attracting top student-athletes from around the world. The university's state-of-the-art facilities and resources ensure that the football program remains competitive at the highest level. Beyond the football field, the Hurricanes are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Miami community. The team's legacy of success and tradition of excellence continue to inspire future generations of players. As the Hurricanes continue to build on their storied history, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing the University of Miami with pride.

University of Central Florida Knights

Based in Orlando, the UCF Knights have risen to prominence in recent years. As a member of the Big 12 Conference, the Knights have showcased their talent on a national stage. The Bounce House, their home stadium, is known for its lively atmosphere. The Knights have a relatively young football program but have quickly made a name for themselves. Their undefeated season in 2017 brought national attention to the program. The team's black and gold colors are a symbol of pride for the university and the city of Orlando. The Knights' commitment to athletic excellence is matched by their dedication to academic achievement, attracting top student-athletes from around the world. The university's state-of-the-art facilities and resources ensure that the football program remains competitive at the highest level. Beyond the football field, the Knights are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Orlando community. The team's rise to prominence has energized the university and the city, creating a strong sense of community and pride. As the Knights continue to build on their success, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing the University of Central Florida with passion.

University of South Florida Bulls

Located in Tampa, the USF Bulls are working to establish themselves in the college football landscape. As a member of the American Athletic Conference (AAC), the Bulls are striving to compete at a high level. The team's green and gold colors represent the spirit of the university and the city of Tampa. The Bulls are committed to building a strong football program that represents the university well. The team's dedication to athletic excellence is matched by their commitment to academic achievement, attracting student-athletes from around the country. The university's facilities and resources are continually improving, providing the football program with the support it needs to succeed. Beyond the football field, the Bulls are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Tampa community. The team's efforts to build a strong football program have energized the university and the city, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future. As the Bulls continue to develop, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing the University of South Florida with pride.

NCAA Division I FCS Programs

Moving down a level, we have the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) programs. These teams may not get as much national attention, but they still offer competitive and exciting football.

Florida A&M University Rattlers

Based in Tallahassee, the Florida A&M Rattlers are a historically black university (HBCU) with a proud football tradition. Competing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), the Rattlers have a passionate fan base and a rich history. Bragg Memorial Stadium is known for its lively atmosphere and enthusiastic supporters. The Rattlers have produced numerous NFL players and have a strong legacy in HBCU football. The team's orange and green colors are a symbol of pride for the university and its alumni. The Rattlers' commitment to athletic excellence is matched by their dedication to academic achievement, attracting student-athletes from around the country. The university's facilities and resources are continually improving, providing the football program with the support it needs to succeed. Beyond the football field, the Rattlers are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Tallahassee community. The team's tradition of excellence and commitment to HBCU football continue to inspire future generations of players. As the Rattlers continue to build on their legacy, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing Florida A&M University with pride.

Stetson University Hatters

Located in DeLand, the Stetson Hatters have a relatively new football program, having restarted it in 2013 after a long hiatus. Competing in the Pioneer Football League, the Hatters are focused on building a competitive program. Spec Martin Stadium provides a great atmosphere for college football in a historic setting. The team's green and white colors represent the spirit of the university and the DeLand community. The Hatters are committed to building a strong football program that represents the university well. The team's dedication to athletic excellence is matched by their commitment to academic achievement, attracting student-athletes from around the country. The university's facilities and resources are continually improving, providing the football program with the support it needs to succeed. Beyond the football field, the Hatters are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the DeLand community. The team's efforts to build a strong football program have energized the university and the city, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future. As the Hatters continue to develop, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing Stetson University with pride.

NCAA Division II Programs

Division II offers a different kind of college football experience, often with a strong emphasis on regional competition and community involvement.

University of West Florida Argonauts

Based in Pensacola, the University of West Florida Argonauts have quickly become a force in Division II football. Competing in the Gulf South Conference, the Argonauts won a national championship in just their second season. The team's blue and green colors represent the spirit of the university and the Pensacola community. The Argonauts are committed to building a strong football program that represents the university well. The team's dedication to athletic excellence is matched by their commitment to academic achievement, attracting student-athletes from around the country. The university's facilities and resources are continually improving, providing the football program with the support it needs to succeed. Beyond the football field, the Argonauts are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Pensacola community. The team's success has energized the university and the city, creating a strong sense of community and pride. As the Argonauts continue to build on their success, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing the University of West Florida with passion.

Valdosta State University Blazers

While Valdosta State University is technically located in Georgia, it's close enough to the Florida border and has a significant following in North Florida, so we'll include them here. The Valdosta State Blazers have a strong tradition in Division II football, with multiple national championships to their name. Competing in the Gulf South Conference, the Blazers are known for their competitive spirit and passionate fan base. The team's red and black colors represent the spirit of the university and the Valdosta community. The Blazers are committed to building a strong football program that represents the university well. The team's dedication to athletic excellence is matched by their commitment to academic achievement, attracting student-athletes from around the country. The university's facilities and resources are continually improving, providing the football program with the support it needs to succeed. Beyond the football field, the Blazers are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Valdosta community. The team's success has energized the university and the city, creating a strong sense of community and pride. As the Blazers continue to build on their success, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing Valdosta State University with passion.

NCAA Division III Programs

Division III football is characterized by its emphasis on academics and the overall student-athlete experience.

Ave Maria University Gyrenes

Located in Ave Maria, the Ave Maria Gyrenes compete in the Mid-South Conference. The Gyrenes are committed to developing well-rounded student-athletes who excel both on and off the field. The team's blue and white colors represent the spirit of the university and the Ave Maria community. The Gyrenes are committed to building a strong football program that represents the university well. The team's dedication to athletic excellence is matched by their commitment to academic achievement, attracting student-athletes from around the country. The university's facilities and resources are continually improving, providing the football program with the support it needs to succeed. Beyond the football field, the Gyrenes are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Ave Maria community. The team's efforts to build a strong football program have energized the university and the city, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future. As the Gyrenes continue to develop, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing Ave Maria University with pride.

Warner University Royals

Based in Lake Wales, the Warner University Royals also compete in the Mid-South Conference. The Royals are focused on providing a positive and enriching experience for their student-athletes. The team's royal blue and white colors represent the spirit of the university and the Lake Wales community. The Royals are committed to building a strong football program that represents the university well. The team's dedication to athletic excellence is matched by their commitment to academic achievement, attracting student-athletes from around the country. The university's facilities and resources are continually improving, providing the football program with the support it needs to succeed. Beyond the football field, the Royals are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Lake Wales community. The team's efforts to build a strong football program have energized the university and the city, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future. As the Royals continue to develop, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing Warner University with pride.

NAIA Programs

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is another avenue for college football in Florida, offering opportunities for smaller institutions.

Southeastern University Fire

Located in Lakeland, the Southeastern University Fire compete in the Mid-South Conference. The Fire have quickly established themselves as a competitive program in the NAIA. The team's red and black colors represent the spirit of the university and the Lakeland community. The Fire are committed to building a strong football program that represents the university well. The team's dedication to athletic excellence is matched by their commitment to academic achievement, attracting student-athletes from around the country. The university's facilities and resources are continually improving, providing the football program with the support it needs to succeed. Beyond the football field, the Fire are actively involved in community service and charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on the Lakeland community. The team's success has energized the university and the city, creating a strong sense of community and pride. As the Fire continue to build on their success, they remain committed to upholding their tradition of excellence and representing Southeastern University with passion.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive look at all the college football teams in Florida. From the powerhouses in FBS to the smaller programs in NAIA, there's a lot of football to enjoy in the Sunshine State. Whether you're cheering on the Gators, Seminoles, Hurricanes, or any other team, get ready for another exciting season of college football! Go team!