Aidan Warner to Lead Florida Gators Against Texas Amid Quarterback and Receiver Injuries

In a challenging week for the Florida Gators, walk-on quarterback Aidan Warner is set to start against the No. 5 Texas Longhorns due to an injury to freshman quarterback DJ Lagway. Lagway, who suffered a hamstring injury in the second quarter of the Gators’ game against Georgia last weekend, will serve as the backup quarterback for this matchup.

Warner, a transfer from Yale, had a tough introduction to the SEC in his last outing, completing just seven of 22 passes for 66 yards and an interception against Georgia. Despite the struggles, the Gators remained competitive until the end of the game. With a week of taking first-team reps in practice, Warner is expected to perform better against Texas’s formidable defense.

The Texas Longhorns boast the No. 1-rated defense in the nation, allowing just 241.3 yards per game and 135.8 yards per game through the air. This defensive prowess will likely force Warner to face significant pressure, and the Longhorns may stack the line to dare him to pass. The Gators’ ground game, led by freshman running backs Jaden Baugh and Ja’Kobi Jackson, will be crucial in supporting Warner.

Adding to the Gators’ challenges, leading receiver Elijhah Badger has been ruled out against Texas, leaving the team without two of their top three receivers. Chimere Dike will now be the primary target for Warner, along with speedster Aidan Mizell and other receivers who will need to step up in this critical game.

Coach Billy Napier faces a significant task in Austin, not only due to the injuries but also the strength of the Texas team. The game will be a test of the Gators’ depth and resilience as they face one of the best defenses in college football.