Lagway Hopes to Wrangle Texas Defense in Upcoming Game
Florida’s quarterback DJ Lagway steps into another big test Saturday when the Gators face No.9 (3-1)Texas, whose defense is ranked No. 2 in the nation and first in the SEC.
The Longhorns defense is allowing just 7.75 points per game and only 23% of third-down conversions. They are also second in the nation on first down defense.
Texas star defensive back Jelani McDonald is tied for first with two interceptions in the SEC. The Longhorns also have Anthony Hill Jr., who is ranked the best linebacker in the nation with 114 total tackles and 16.5 for loss, eight sacks, and four forced fumbles in the 2024 season. It makes him an undisputed leader for the Longhorns defense, and a top prospect for the 2026 NFL draft.
Meanwhile, the Gators have stumbled through games. They are putting up 22 points per match, last in the SEC. Notably, this includes the points they racked up in their opening game against the LIU Sharks, with a 55-0 shutout. Without that, Florida would be averaging just 11 points per game, ranking them 100th in scoring offenses in the nation.
The Gators offense needs to pivot if they plan to make this match-up the turning point of their season. Florida has not scored more than one touchdown against an FBS team this season. Florida has also struggled in third-down conversions; this has been the worst August and September for the team in nearly a decade, converting just 30.91%.
Quarterback DJ Lagway has struggled particularly with passing. In the previous game against Miami, Lagway passed for minus-three air yards. He averages less than six yards per pass thrown this season and tallied five interceptions against LSU, the first time this has happened since 1992.
Lagway also said he’s been improving during the bye week, including in a practice scrimmage.
“I’ve been working on my pocket movement, keeping my base position through throws. I feel like every single day I’m getting more comfortable in it and getting better,” he said.
It’s not all bad for the Gators, however. They have some help coming in on offense. Freshman receiver Dallas Wilson will be debuting in the Texas matchup. He showed promise in the spring game, catching 10 passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns, but he was out due to a leg injury. He is now ready to go out and play.
“His ability to go deep, his ability to make plays underneath and be able to make miraculous plays with the ball in his hands, it’s going to be great to have him back,” Lagway said
Florida’s defense has been strong overall and is ranked 31st in the nation in total defense, allowing 28.2 yards per game.
Longhorns have not been to the swamp since 2024, and last time the match-up ended in a 49-17 loss for the Gators. Florida will need to rely on its strong defense and execution from its offense if it hopes to come out with an upset this week and switch the momentum of its season in a positive direction.
Category: College Football, Football, Gators Football, Uncategorized
