Gainesville, Florida, November 11, 2025
The Florida Gators have confirmed that quarterback DJ Lagway will remain the starter for their upcoming game against No. 6 Ole Miss. Interim coach Billy Gonzales highlighted Lagway’s potential and the benefits of competition, despite the quarterback’s recent struggles. Lagway was benched during last week’s loss to Kentucky but has shown talent earlier in his career. Florida’s confidence in his future development is clear as they face Ole Miss with a 3-6 record.
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The Florida Gators have confirmed that quarterback DJ Lagway will remain the starter for their upcoming game against No. 6 Ole Miss. Interim coach Billy Gonzales stated that Lagway will continue to receive first-team repetitions in practice this week, emphasizing the benefits of competition within the team.
Lagway, a sophomore, has experienced difficulties this season, including a benching during last week’s 38-7 defeat to Kentucky. In that game, he completed 11 of 19 passes for 83 yards, managing one touchdown but throwing three interceptions. Freshman Tramell Jones replaced him at halftime, finishing with 9-of-17 passing for 60 yards.
Gonzales compared the situation to that of a struggling pitcher in Major League Baseball, indicating that while a player may face challenges, it is important for them to learn and grow. The decision for Lagway to remain as the starting quarterback reflects Florida’s confidence in his potential and commitment to his development as the season continues.
Despite his recent struggles, Lagway has demonstrated talent in his earlier career. In his freshman season in 2024, he led the Gators to a 6-1 record and achieved a passer rating of 154.9, the highest recorded for a Florida true freshman quarterback.
The Gators currently hold a 3-6 record, with a 2-4 record in the Southeastern Conference, and face a significant challenge against the 6-0 Rebels this Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET in Gainesville.
FAQ
Why is Florida sticking with quarterback DJ Lagway despite recent struggles?
Interim coach Billy Gonzales has expressed confidence in Lagway’s potential and believes that continued play will aid his development. Gonzales emphasized that “competition is great for everybody” and that the decision is part of a learning process for Lagway.
What were Lagway’s statistics in the game against Kentucky?
In the 38-7 loss to Kentucky, Lagway completed 11 of 19 passes for 83 yards, throwing one touchdown and three interceptions. Freshman Tramell Jones replaced him at halftime, finishing 9-of-17 for 60 yards.
How did Lagway perform during his freshman season in 2024?
As a freshman, Lagway led the Gators to a 6-1 record as a starter and finished the season with a passer rating of 154.9, the highest for a Florida true freshman quarterback.
What is Florida’s current season record and upcoming game schedule?
The Gators are currently 3-6 with a 2-4 record in the Southeastern Conference. They are scheduled to play against No. 6 Ole Miss on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET in Gainesville.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Quarterback | DJ Lagway |
| Interim Coach | Billy Gonzales |
| Upcoming Opponent | No. 6 Ole Miss |
| Game Date and Time | Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET |
| Game Location | Gainesville, Florida |
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