Florida Coach Urban Meyer Says "Later" To Gators

This time of year often has folks expressing gratitude for their health and well-being.

But instead of returning an ill-fitting sweater on Saturday, Urban Meyer spent the day after Christmas exchanging his job as Florida football coach for a renewed "focus on my health and family," according to a report on ESPN.com .

The university issued a statement Saturday afternoon in which Meyer cited his health as the primary reason for his decision to quit after five years as coach of the Gators. He's expected to speak further about his decision at a news conference on Sunday.

"I have ignored my health for years, but recent developments have forced me to reevaluate my priorities of faith and family," Meyer said in the statement, according to the ESPN report.

Meyer didn't specify any particular health issue, but his boss, Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley, said he supports the coach's decision.

"I have never seen anyone more committed to his players, his family and his program," Foley said in the statement cited by ESPN. "Above all, I appreciate our friendship."

Meyer, who led the Gators to the 2006 and 2008 national championships, will coach Florida in the Sugar Bowl against Cincinnati on Jan. 1.

Only 45, Meyer is a three-time national coach of the year who also was named the Best Coach in College Football in a One Great Season poll in November.

He compiled a 56-10 record at Florida, and is 95-18 in nine seasons as a head coach in a career that includes stops at Utah and Bowling Green.