Sep 20, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (2) passes the football against the Miami Hurricanes during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to turn around their disappointing 2025 college football season, despite a challenging start that has left Florida with a 1-3 record. Under head coach Billy Napier, the Gators have faced significant challenges, raising doubts about their potential for a second-half resurgence similar to last year’s performance.
In a recent statement, Lagway acknowledged the team’s struggles but emphasized his commitment to improvement. “It’s been hard, but let me tell y’all something, we’re going to get things changed, for sure. I can guarantee that,” he said, as reported by Andrea Adelson of ESPN. He further added, “This is not acceptable at all. I’m not going to sit here and lie to y’all and make this seem like this is OK. This isn’t OK. We’ve got to play better football, and it starts with me.”
Florida’s Challenging Schedule Ahead
The complexity of Florida’s situation is compounded by a particularly demanding schedule. The Gators have already suffered defeats against No. 3 LSU and No. 4 Miami and still face tough opponents including No. 10 Texas, No. 9 Texas A&M, No. 5 Georgia, No. 13 Ole Miss, No. 15 Tennessee, and No. 8 Florida State. Even if they manage to secure victories against the unranked teams on their remaining schedule, which includes Mississippi State and Kentucky, the Gators could realistically finish with a record of 3-9.
The upcoming games are not guaranteed wins, especially considering Florida’s recent loss to an unranked USF team at home. Presently, Mississippi State holds a strong 4-0 record, bolstered by a victory over then-No. 12 Arizona State.
Lagway’s Performance Under Scrutiny
Despite Lagway’s optimistic rhetoric, his individual performance has been less than stellar. Aside from a strong opening game against Long Island, he has completed just 68-of-105 passes for 507 yards, with two touchdowns and six interceptions. Lagway, who was anticipated to be a standout player for Florida, now finds himself at the center of the team’s struggles.
Questions arise regarding whether both Lagway and Napier can rise to the occasion as the season progresses. As the pressure mounts, Lagway remains determined to lead by example. “I’m going to demand greatness from everybody,” he declared. “We’re done with the playing around stuff. It’s time to get serious. It starts with me. I’ve got to set the tempo. I’ve got to set the tone in practice and in meetings around the building. I know for a fact it’s going to change because it’s going to start with me.”
As the Gators prepare to face the remainder of their challenging schedule, the spotlight remains on Lagway and the team’s ability to overcome early setbacks. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Florida can indeed turn their season around.
