Florida Gators Quarterback DJ Lagway Promises Change After Miami Loss

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The Florida Gators suffered a humiliating 26-7 loss to the Miami Hurricanes on Saturday, managing just 141 total yards, the team’s lowest output since 1999. Quarterback DJ Lagway struggled throughout the game, completing only 12 of 23 passes for a mere 61 yards, while the Gators went 0-for-13 on third downs, marking their worst performance since 1998.

After the game, Lagway addressed the media and expressed his frustration with the offensive performance. “This is not acceptable at all. I’m going to start with it,” he stated, vowing to take responsibility for the team’s struggles and lead by example moving forward.

Lagway’s current struggles follow a rough start to the season, including throwing five interceptions the previous week against LSU. He missed all of spring practice and was limited during fall camp due to injuries, which have affected his game. Excluding the season opener against Long Island University, Lagway has completed 68 of 105 passes for 507 yards, with just two touchdowns and six interceptions.

The Gators showed some potential in the third quarter with an 80-yard drive that cut Miami’s lead to 13-7. However, a short fourth-down attempt and a long drive by Miami eventually sealed their defeat. This loss marks the first time since 1989 that Florida has scored 10 points or fewer in consecutive games.

Head coach Billy Napier acknowledged the need for improvement, noting missing offensive rhythm and the importance of reevaluating strategies. Both Lagway and Napier see the upcoming open date as a critical opportunity to regroup before facing ranked opponents Texas and Texas A&M.

Lagway emphasized the team’s need to demand excellence from each other, stating, “I’m going to set the tempo. I know for a fact it’s going to change because it’s going to start with me.” The focus for the Gators is clear: improve the offense and restore confidence.