Florida Gators Address QB Depth Concerns After Strong Season Opener

The Florida Gators opened their 2025 football season with a dominant 55-0 victory over FCS Long Island University, showcasing strong performances from sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway and true freshman backup Tramell Jones Jr. Lagway, despite offseason injuries, completed 15 of 18 passes for 120 yards and three touchdowns while demonstrating effective mobility in the pocket. Jones, unexpectedly named the backup quarterback, impressed with 12 completions on 18 attempts for 131 yards and two touchdowns, earning praise from head coach Billy Napier and Lagway himself. The Gators' running game also excelled, producing 200 yards, and their defense held Long Island to just 86 yards and two first downs. However, kicker Trey Smack struggled, missing three field goals, though Napier expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back. Looking ahead, Florida faces an 18.5-point underdog challenge against the No. 15 USF Bulls, who themselves started strong with a 34-7 win over No. 25 Boise State, but the Gators hold a 3-0 all-time series lead against USF.