In his first career start against Samford, Florida quarterback DJ Lagway showed why he was such a highly touted recruit coming out of high school. Lagway completed 18 of 25 passes for 456 yards -- the most in a single game for a freshman QB at Florida and 28 yards from the most all time -- and three touchdowns in the 45-7 win.
Filling in for Week 1 starter Graham Mertz, who exited the Miami game with a concussion, Lagway built upon the excitement he generated against the Hurricanes, even when the game was out of reach, against an FCS opponent.
On Florida's second offensive series, Lagway connected with Arizona State transfer Elijhah Badger for a 77-yard completion, which set up a short touchdown run by Montrell Johnson Jr. on the following play. Badger caught three passes for 123 yards, while Eugene Wilson III had a game-high six catches for 141 yards and a touchdown.
Lagway also showed prowess with his legs, both in the running game and creating space in the pocket.
DJ Lagway is putting on a show tonight🤩
— PFF College (@PFF_College) September 8, 2024
pic.twitter.com/9VVXfn2f4c
Lagway, the top-ranked quarterback and the No. 3 overall player in the 2024 recruiting cycle, according to 247Sports, entered this season as Mertz's backup. At 6-foot-3, 239 pounds, Lagway is a true dual-threat capable of offering a different look for Florida's offense and could see extended action depending on the severity of Mertz's injury -- if he doesn't surpass Mertz altogether.
The competition gets fiercer, however. Florida faces Texas A&M next at home in its first SEC game on Sept. 14.
