Sat Nov 01 21:00:00 UTC 2025: Lagway Seeks Redemption Against Georgia Amid Coaching Turmoil

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A year after a promising start against Georgia ended in injury and defeat, Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway is eager to face the Bulldogs again, this Saturday. The sophomore quarterback is extra motivated to take down No. 5 Georgia, despite the recent firing of head coach Billy Napier and the subsequent coaching shakeup.

Last year, Lagway’s performance sparked hope for a Florida upset, leading the team to a 10-3 lead before a hamstring injury sidelined him. The Gators ultimately lost 34-20. Now, under interim head coach Billy Gonzales, Lagway aims to rewrite the narrative.

“I’ve been waiting for this game for a long time,” Lagway said during a press conference. “I’m excited to get out there… and really fight with my guys.”

The road to this rematch hasn’t been easy for Lagway. Multiple injuries hampered his offseason, limiting his participation in spring and fall camps. Despite throwing for 1,513 yards, nine touchdowns, and nine interceptions this season, the Gators have struggled to a 3-4 record.

However, Gonzales believes Lagway is approaching this game with a renewed sense of determination. “There’s a burning desire,” Gonzales said. “A great player always wants to play, he said. They always want to compete consistently. They always want to. And, you know, he’s going to want to take the fight to anybody when he lines up against them.

Adding to the challenge, Lagway will be working with a revamped offensive structure. Ryan O’Hara, his quarterbacks coach, will now call plays from the booth, and Steve Spurrier Jr. will serve as the gameday quarterbacks coach. Despite the changes, Gonzales said Lagway is handling everything well.

“I’m excited. He’s had a really good week of practice,” Gonzales said.

With a tough schedule ahead, including games against No. 7 Ole Miss and No. 14 Tennessee, the Gators need a turnaround, starting with Lagway’s performance against Georgia.

“I just feel like this game is just gonna showcase him, and when he gets to play for the whole game, you’re gonna see,” junior safety Bryce Thornton said.

The Gators and Bulldogs will kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET, with television coverage on ABC.

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