Florida interim coach Billy Gonzales gives update on benched QB DJ Lagway ahead of Ole Miss game: “He understands”

DJ Lagway, the true freshman quarterback for the Florida Gators, had a tough outing in the team’s recent loss to the Kentucky Wildcats in Week 11. Lagway struggled on the field, leading interim coach Billy Gonzales to bench him in favor of backup Tramell Jones.

After the game, there was speculation about who would be the starting quarterback moving forward. Gonzales seems to have made his decision clear ahead of the upcoming matchup against Ole Miss. According to On3 Sports, Gonzales praised Lagway’s recent performances, stating, “He’s been fantastic. He was awesome. He’s done a great job.”

Gonzales emphasized the importance of communication with Lagway, mentioning that they have discussed ways to support and improve the young quarterback. With the Gators currently standing at a 3-6 record, Gonzales is focused on helping Lagway reach his full potential to aid the team in their pursuit of bowl game eligibility.

Despite his struggles this season, Lagway has shown promise as a quarterback. ESPN has ranked him as the 55th out of 68 Power 4 quarterbacks, taking into account his 1,762 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in nine games. Lagway will have three more opportunities to showcase his skills against Ole Miss, Tennessee, and Florida State.

As the season nears its end, the Gators will need to make decisions about their quarterback position. They may choose to stick with Lagway as the starter or explore options in the transfer portal for a new signal-caller. The future of the quarterback position at Florida remains uncertain, but Lagway’s development and performance in the final games will play a significant role in shaping the team’s direction.

In conclusion, Lagway’s journey as a true freshman quarterback has been filled with challenges and learning experiences. The Gators and their fans will be eagerly watching to see how Lagway continues to grow and contribute to the team’s success on the field. With Gonzales’ guidance and support, Lagway has the potential to emerge as a key player for the Florida Gators in the seasons to come.

This article was edited by Nick Igbokwe.