Spurrier’s $2.14-Million Contract Includes Incentives for Academics

Steve Spurrier, the University of Florida’s new football coach, received a five-year deal worth $2.14 million, with bonuses for winning and improving the team’s graduation rate that could add another $70,000 per year.

Spurrier will earn $120,000 in base pay and $180,000 in television and radio money his first year. He will receive bonuses of $1,000 if 50% of a class graduates within six years of entering Florida; one month’s salary if 60% graduate; and 10% of his salary if 80% graduate.

Spurrier protected himself in case the NCAA puts the Gators on probation. If the NCAA invokes the so-called death penalty and prohibits Florida from competing, Spurrier’s contract is extended by two years for every year the Gators do not play.

If the NCAA puts the Gators on probation and gives them sanctions similar to what they had in 1984-85--no televised games, no bowl games, limited scholarships--Spurrier’s contract is extended by one year for every year of sanctions. For each year the contract is extended, Spurrier’s base salary will be at least $145,860.