During the Southeastern Conference (SEC) media days held in Atlanta, discussions centered on evolving quarterback scenarios for the upcoming season. Notably, Florida’s DJ Lagway, who led the Gators to a 6-1 record after taking over as starter midway through the 2024 season, is generating excitement as the team enters year four under head coach Billy Napier. Meanwhile, Blake Shapen of Mississippi State, who missed significant playtime due to a shoulder injury last year, aims to turn the tide for the Bulldogs following a challenging season.
Tennessee’s Quarterback Competition Intensifies
The situation at Tennessee is particularly dynamic, as the Volunteers grapple with a three-way quarterback competition. This follows the departure of Nico Iamaleava, who started all 13 games for Tennessee in 2024 before transferring to UCLA just prior to spring practice. Head coach Josh Heupel, a former National Championship-winning quarterback, is optimistic about finding a capable successor.
“We’ve found a way to win with a lot of different quarterbacks throughout my career,” Heupel stated. “And we’re going to find a way to win with the guy that earns a starting spot as we go through training camp here in August.”
Among the contenders is Joey Aguilar, a transfer from Appalachian State who initially moved to UCLA before re-entering the transfer portal. During his time with the Mountaineers, Aguilar started 11 games, racking up 3,002 yards and throwing 23 touchdowns against 14 interceptions. Other candidates include Jake Merklinger, who appeared in two games last season, and incoming true freshman George MacIntyre.
Heupel emphasized the importance of competition in determining the starting role. “Now it’s about getting to training camp and going and competing,” he remarked. “Somebody is going to earn the opportunity to be our starting quarterback through that process.”
Florida’s Lagway Looks to Build Momentum
As Florida gears up for a new chapter, Lagway’s performance will be pivotal. He enters his second season as a starter, having achieved a noteworthy record that ties him with Chris Leak for the most wins by a true freshman quarterback in the program’s history. The Gators finished strong last year, winning their final four games after a rocky start.
Lagway’s success can be attributed in part to the support of Jake Slaughter, the only player who has participated in every game of Napier’s tenure, boasting a streak of 38 consecutive games. Slaughter, who was named an AP All-American, has taken on a leadership role, inspiring his teammates on and off the field.
“He was voted team captain by his teammates last year, and he very much lives it out,” Napier said regarding Slaughter. “He’s a guy that sets the tone every day.”
As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Lagway’s performance alongside Slaughter will be crucial in establishing a strong offensive front. “He treats everything like it’s the last thing he’s ever going to do,” Slaughter noted about Lagway, highlighting the quarterback’s infectious energy during games.
Mississippi State’s Recovery Efforts
For Mississippi State, the return of Shapen is a beacon of hope after a tumultuous season. The Bulldogs recorded a 2-10 overall record in 2024, with an unfortunate winless conference campaign. Shapen’s absence due to a fractured right scapula in week four significantly impacted the team’s performance, resulting in a 1-7 record during his recovery.
Now fully healthy, Shapen is eager to make his mark. “I am 100% healthy,” he asserted. “Obviously, it was tough not playing last year, but I’m back now and I feel better than ever.” In his limited appearances before the injury, Shapen threw for 974 yards, with eight touchdowns and only one interception, showcasing his potential.
Head coach Jeff Lebby expressed optimism about the upcoming season, emphasizing the team’s commitment to improvement. “Inside our walls right now we have great belief,” Lebby stated. “Our guys are incredibly intent on getting better and changing the outcome this fall.”
As the 2025 season approaches, the focus on quarterback battles across the SEC promises to provide thrilling narratives, with teams like Tennessee, Florida, and Mississippi State poised for significant developments. The outcomes of these competitions could play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of college football in the coming year.
