“DJ Lagway, DJ Lagway, DJ Lagway” echoed loudly through Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during Florida’s commanding 45-7 victory over Samford in week two.
“I joined in on the chants,” said sophomore receiver Eugene Wilson after the game.
DJ Lagway, the highly anticipated freshman quarterback, was the center of attention in Gainesville this week. As the top-ranked QB in the 2023 class, Lagway made his debut as a starter on Saturday night against Samford and delivered an impressive performance.
Lagway completed 18 of 25 passes for 456 yards and three touchdowns, setting a new record for the most passing yards in a single game by a Florida freshman quarterback. He surpassed Chris Leak’s previous record of 268 yards set against Kentucky.
“I stayed focused on the task,” Lagway said postgame. “My coach advised me to take it one play at a time. That’s what I did—executed each play and got my teammates involved, which was crucial.”
The 6’3”, 239-pound quarterback from Willis, Texas, showcased his arm strength and accuracy with six passes over 30 yards. He completed 6 of 9 deep passes, demonstrating his precision on long throws. Notably, on Florida’s second drive, Lagway connected with Elijhah Badger for a 77-yard gain, the longest Gators pass since Anthony Richardson’s 78-yard touchdown to Xzaiver Henderson in 2021.
“That throw was impressive,” said Billy Napier about Lagway’s 77-yard completion to Badger. “He set his feet, read the progression, and delivered a great throw.”
However, Lagway’s most remarkable throw may have been a 41-yard touchdown pass to Aidan Mizell in the third quarter. Despite pressure, Lagway stepped up in the pocket and made a perfect throw to Mizell, showcasing advanced skills for a freshman.
“That play was about trusting my receiver,” Lagway said. “I know my receivers are capable, and we’ve been working together since January.”
Though Lagway’s memorable moments included the deep passes, his favorite was his first career touchdown—a 36-yard throw to his close friend, freshman WR Tank Hawkins.
“That touchdown to Tank Hawkins was special,” Lagway said. “It was great to share that moment with one of my best friends.”
With 456 passing yards, Lagway leads the FBS this season and ranks ninth all-time at Florida, just 27 yards short of the school’s single-game record.
“I learned I can adapt to any situation,” Lagway reflected. “I’m ready for any opportunity, and this experience has been a blessing.”
Lagway’s performance energized Gator fans, who eagerly anticipate his future games. While it’s uncertain if Lagway will be Florida’s starting quarterback going forward, Billy Napier indicated that he will play a significant role in their plans each week.
“He brings a unique element to our team,” Napier said. “He will definitely be a part of our plans moving forward.”
Florida’s offense amassed 632 total yards, surpassing 600 yards for the first time since October 2, 2022, against Eastern Washington (666).
The Gators improved to 1-1 as they head into a crucial week three matchup against Texas A&M.
Leave a Reply