A renewed sense of hope has taken over the Florida Gators’ facilities, as they aim to leave last season’s performance behind and, somehow, improve upon it. DJ Lagway will once again be tasked with leading this program, which will need every player at 100% in order to achieve the goals set for the upcoming NCAAF season.
The talented quarterback is well aware of this, as he is one of his own toughest critics. He will need to improve on some key aspects of his game in order to support his teammates in the best possible way on the field.
In a recent conversation with the media during SEC Media Days, Lagway discussed the main areas he’ll need to work on during this time, specifically focusing on reading defensive movements.
“I’m definitely looking to improve on coverage recognition,” he said. “Knowing where the defense is gonna be and truly knowing their responsibilities and also knowing my teammates’ responsibilities better.”
DJ Lagway #2 of the Florida Gators gestures towards the crowd after scoring a touchdown late in the fourth quarter during their game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on October 12, 2024 in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Handling the pressure of being QB1
DJ Lagway stepped onto the field as the starter in the back half of last season after Graham Mertz went down with an injury. From then on, his spot was secured for the remainder of the season, and Billy Napier made the bold decision to name him the permanent starter moving forward.
The pressure of leading this historic program could affect the QB, but Lagway knows he has to handle it and will do his best to manage it.
“I always say pressure is a privilege,” the QB said. “Once you have pressure, that means people are counting on you to do big things. So I’m always excited when people say pressure. You know, that’s why I just love the game day atmosphere, because that feels like all eyes are on you. And you gotta put on a show, you know? So that’s what I’m excited for.”
Napier stands behind his QB
Improving on last NCAAF season’s performance won’t be an easy task for the Gainesville squad, but both Billy Napier and his staff have confidence in what their quarterback can bring to the team in pursuit of big results.
“Now, after the season and bowl game, you get a chance to regroup a little bit,” the coach Napier said. “So, obviously he’s very talented but to me we’re working on the skill level, fundamentals and techniques. We’re working on his knowledge and overall football IQ. I think one of the areas where he’s ahead of the game is as a competitor.”
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