Gators name Wisconsin transfer Mertz beginning QB

Andrea Adelson, ESPN Elder WriterAug 11, 2023, 06:08 PM ET

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• ACC reporter.
• Signed up with ESPN.com in 2010.
• Graduate of the University of Florida.Florida coach Billy Napier announced Friday that Wisconsin transfer Graham Mertz has won the starting quarterback job.Mertz was competing with Jack Miller throughout the spring and early part of

  preseason camp, however had been expected to win the task based on his veteran experience.While at Wisconsin, Mertz began for three seasons. In 2015, he tossed for 2,136 yards and 19 goals. But he took a look at Florida as a fresh start after going 19-12 during his time with the Badgers.The Gators open the season Aug. 31 at Utah. Mertz changes Anthony Richardson, who was drafted No. 4 total by the Indianapolis Colts.

  Mertz is not a dual-threat quarterback, so the offense is anticipated to look different this season.Also Friday, Napier announced defensive end Justus Boone tore an ACL after commemorating a play in practice. Boone, who had actually been anticipated to begin, is set up to

  have surgery in two weeks.