Florida’s Mertz: Communication Between Quarterbacks Important

Ahead of the Gators matchup Saturday against the UCF Knights (3-1), quarterback Graham Mertz likes his role on the team.

Florida coach Billy Napier has been switching Mertz and freshman quarterback DJ Lagway between quarters the past several games. While there has been a lot speculation about the starting position and the employment status of Napier, Mertz has continued to stand by his team and coach.

While both quarterbacks have been interchanging series, the biggest thing they are learning from each other is communicating. When changes need to be made or one needs further directing, they are there for each other, Mertz said during Monday’s news conference.

Winning Feeling

A feeling the Gators (2-2) have been longing for most of the season is winning big-time games. While Florida is known to have the toughest college football schedule, the team confidently held a high standard until it was blown out in the first game against the Miami Hurricanes. Yet, the Gators made a comeback with their first Division 1 victory on the road against the Mississippi State Bulldogs.

What Does State Rivalry Mean?

The Gators face yet another state team Saturday, when the tensions tend to rise. Especially against a team which has proven to be aggressive on the field with a mobile quarterback.  Coming off a bye could either be good or bad for the Gators. It will all depend on their preparation and if the offense and defense are willing to find urgency when on the field.

For other guys it’s just another test to see what Florida can pull together. The Gators schedule only gets harder in next couple of weeks with Tennessee, Kentucky and Georgia.

The stakes are high for this team, even with two wins, can they pull it together against these other teams who curate an explosive offense?

Mental, Physical Preparation

While it can not be certain how fans should expect Florida to perform this weekend, the Gators may be on an upward trend.

Mertz expressed that the team had three great practices during bye week and that there was a level of intensity involved, but also some fun moments.

He also expressed that’s what they needed as a team during a bye. In many cases they started fast, which was the big takeaway that the team needs to do during the game, Mertz explained.

Game Time

The game is on Saturday starting at 7:45 p.m. at The Swamp. It will air on the SEC Network and on ESPN 98.1-FM/AM-850 WRUF.