UF’s Lagway could make first start if Mertz out

GAINESVILLE, Fla.– Florida might be without quarterback Graham Mertz versus lower-division Samford on Saturday night, raising the possibility of extremely promoted freshman DJ Lagway making his very first career start.Mertz was knocked

out of recently’s 41-17 home loss to No. 19 Miami in the 3rd quarter with a concussion. Coach Billy Napier stated Monday the Gators are “inspecting boxes in protocol “concerning Mertz and added that Lagway would take all the first-team repeatings in practice later on in the day.Mertz, a former Wisconsin starter, had his worst game in 2 seasons with the Gators. He completed 11 of 20 passes for 91 lawns and an interception. Lagway led the Gators to a goal and tossed an interception in three series of work. He likewise ran for 20 lawns.”We would play a brand name of football that shows his experience and his strengths,

no various than we do every week,”Napier said.”However I’ve got a ton of confidence in DJ. We have actually had him [on school] since January. He’s an entirely various individual and player than he was when he initially got here. “He’s got a truly excellent understanding of our system.”Lagway was a first-class prospect from Willis, Texas. The 2023 Gatorade Player of the Year was the agreement No. 1 QB in the country. He threw for 4,604 and 58 goals as a senior at Willis High. He likewise led the group in rushing with 957 lawns and 16 ratings.”You want to think that he just finished preparing as if he was one play away from being out there,”Napier said.”You got to begin your week as if you’re going to be the guy, understanding that the entire building is going to be depending on you when you get that opportunity. Really that uses to all backups. “I believe you want a culture where the backup is working consistently as if he might need to play because this is a game where players get harmed.

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