Billy Napier Reveals Major QB Decision Following DJ Lagway’s Impressive Debut

Florida head coach Billy Napier praised quarterback DJ Lagway after his impressive debut performance, a 45-6 win over FCS Samford. The former five-star recruit completed 18-of-25 passes for 456 yards and three touchdowns, shattering Chris Leak’s freshman record of 268 yards (set in 2003). Despite Lagway’s breakout game, Napier remained non-committal about whether the young QB would remain the starter when veteran Graham Mertz returns from a concussion sustained in Week 1 against Miami.

Florida QB DJ Lagway shines with record-setting day in first start as  Gators bounce back from rivalry loss - CBSSports.com
Billy Napier Reveals Major QB Decision Following DJ Lagway’s Impressive Debut

“That’s a hypothetical,” Napier said postgame. “We’re going to enjoy this win, review the tape, and evaluate. We’ve got a talented young quarterback and an experienced veteran. It’s a great situation for both our current team and the future of the program.”

Lagway’s standout performance sparked calls for him to be the Gators’ permanent starter, including praise from former Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III. “DJ Lagway threw for 465 yards and three touchdowns in his first start as a true freshman. He’s big, strong, mobile, and fearless. His arm is as explosive as the Gators’ offense. He should be QB1,” Griffin posted.

Lagway’s 456 passing yards lead the FBS this season and rank ninth in Florida’s history. He made five completions of 40-plus yards, including a 77-yard pass to Elijhah Badger, marking the first time during Napier’s tenure that a quarterback has thrown multiple 70-plus-yard passes in a single game.

Napier reaffirmed his confidence in Lagway, stating, “He’s everything we expected. The stage is never too big for him, and he raises his game.”

Mertz, who struggled in Week 1, went 11-of-20 for 91 yards with one interception before being sidelined. After Lagway’s breakout, Florida defensive lineman Tyreak Sapp suggested a two-quarterback system might be effective: “Pick your poison. Rattlesnake or king cobra—either way, you’re going to get hurt.”

Lagway, ranked the No. 3 overall prospect and No. 1 quarterback in the class of 2024, is the highest-rated QB recruit for Florida since Brock Berlin in 2000.

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