Graham Mertz disputes idea of tension with DJ Lagway: ‘We want to win’
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Graham Mertz and DJ Lagway are in a unique situation at Florida, operating in a two-quarterback system for the Gators since Mertz returned from an early-season injury. Sometimes those situations can result in chemistry issues, but Mertz says that is not the case for Florida.
During an appearance on “SEC This Morning” with Chris Doering, Mertz said he and Lagway are truly friends at heart. They also share a synonymous goal of winning every game.
“It goes back to we care about this place and we want to win, so we’re going to do whatever we can to go do that,” said Mertz about the dual-QB system.
As for his impressions of Lagway, Mertz praised the true freshman for a humble approach, something that is already influencing other young players within the program.
“Ever since he came in here, just his humility and approach and just going about it day by day and just trying to grow a little every day. It’s been awesome,” Mertz described. “I think the young guys see that and want to be like that, so they’re trying to push themselves to get that level of consistency in their prep.”
Most recently, Florida’s offense found its groove with a 45-28 win over Mississippi State, and both players were featured at various points of the game.
Mertz led the way with a 19-for-21 passing effort for 201 yards and 4 total touchdowns. Lagway was also efficient, completing all 7 of his passes for 76 yards and 22 rushing yard when in the game.
Now back at .500, we’ll see how the system works when Florida resumes play vs. UCF on Oct. 5.
“We care about this place and we want to win.”@GrahamMertz5 told @ChrisDoering & @PeterBurnsESPN that he and fellow QB @DerekLagway are on the same page. @GatorsFB | #GoGators | #SECThisMorning pic.twitter.com/E3CExJevT8
— College Sports on SiriusXM (@SXMCollege) September 24, 2024
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
