1970s-1980s

In 1971, Head Coach Doug Dickey insisted that artificial turf be installed, and his request was granted in April of that year. It was a big transition for the team, but the turf, “Doug’s Rug” as it was affectionately known, lasted until the 1990 season, for 19 years.

In the late 1970s, the Gators made three straight bowl appearances and garnered their highest ranking ever in the coaches poll at No. 12 in 1974, a year in which they went undefeated at Florida Field – this for the fifth time ever.

However, 1979 marked one of the worst seasons up until that point: an 0-10-1 record and numerous NCAA violations brought in by the new head coach, Charlie Pell. The team was able to turn its misfortunes around and made a bowl appearance in each of the next four years. In 1984, the Gators would have one of their best seasons ever, finishing with a 9-1-1 record and finished No. 3 in the AP Poll.

It was in 1982, though, that the South endzone was finally closed in. With the new additions, the capacity grew to about 72,000. Along with the extra seating, there was a training center for the athletes and a press box added to the stadium on the west side.

In 1989, Florida Field was dedicated to long-time supporter of the University of Florida and of Gator athletics, Ben Hill Griffin, Jr. In his honor, it was renamed Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at Florida Field.

Florida Field in the 1970s

Florida Field in the 1980s