Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier announced plans to continue rotating freshman quarterback DJ Lagway and senior Graham Mertz following the Gators’ dominant 45-7 victory over Samford in Week 2.
In the game, Lagway impressed with 456 passing yards and three touchdowns on 18-of-25 completions, marking a strong debut in his first career start for Florida. This performance followed Mertz’s injury in the Gators’ season-opening loss to Miami, where he sustained a concussion in the third quarter.
Despite the win being against a lesser opponent in Samford, Lagway showcased the talent that made him a highly touted five-star recruit, leaving fans optimistic about his future. With Mertz’s injury status uncertain ahead of their Week 3 matchup against Texas A&M on September 14, Napier confirmed the program’s plan to alternate between the two quarterbacks moving forward, depending on the situation.
Napier expressed confidence in both quarterbacks, acknowledging the benefits of having an experienced veteran in Mertz and a rising star in Lagway. He emphasized that Lagway’s readiness and poise give the Gators flexibility in their offensive strategy.
Florida’s Week 3 game against Texas A&M will take place at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at 3:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ABC.
