Florida football head coach Billy Napier has plans to use a dual quarterback approach against the Texas A&M Aggies on Saturday.
Graham Mertz and DJ Lagway have both been practicing with the first and second team practice groups this week.
“Both players were able to get reps with both groups,” Napier said. “They’re both preparing at a high level in anticipation of both playing in the game.”
Napier talked about how Mertz and Lagway have been working together.
“It’s been awesome to see them work together as they prepare in practice. Encouraging each other, collaborating with each other.”
Mertz has been in concussion protocol for about a week and a half after suffering a concussion during the first game of the season against Miami.
Napier mentioned how Mertz has looked great in practice this week.
“(Mertz) had a great week,” Napier said. “(The) ball’s jumping out of his hand. I think he’s getting back into a rhythm.”
While Mertz has been taking first-team reps in practice, true freshman quarterback DJ Lagway has been doing the same.
So the Gators will be taking a dual quarterback approach, meaning that both Mertz and Lagway will be getting playing time.
What does Napier’s plan look like? Will both quarterbacks alternate offensive drives? Does Napier plan to play a quarterback based on the down and distance, or the field position?
Before getting hurt in Week 1, Mertz had 91 passing yards, completed 11 of his 20 throws and gave up an interception.
The redshirt senior is playing in his sixth season as a collegiate athlete and hopes to put his shaky performance from Week 1 behind him as his offense faces a tough Texas A&M defense.
Up next for the Gators
Florida will play at home in Ben Hill Griffin Stadium against Texas A&M on Saturday, Sept. 14. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ABC.
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