UF is a "need to win" game for sure. It's a chance to make a statement and a hurdle that must be jumped to meet program goals for the season. A game doesn't impact anyone's job security, but a W checks a box that needs to be checked.
UT made a commitment to the entire staff, signed them to longer-term contracts and just extended them, as planned. This was structured at the outset to build a stable foundation and culture for the program. That said, UF is the first stepping stone toward beating our rivals and getting to the top of the division. If we want to be #2 in the SECE, we beat UF and UK. We give UGA a game. And we show recruits that we're legitimately on our way. We need this win, and we have the players, coaches, fans and venue to get it.