DJ Lagway is riding high after leading the Florida Gators to a 27-16 victory over LSU, and he’s optimistic about the future under Billy Napier. The freshman quarterback believes that the Gators are on the brink of something special, and he’s confident that Napier will be back at the helm next season to help steer the program back to its glory days.
Belief in Change and Development
Lagway’s confidence isn’t just about winning games; it’s about the culture and mindset within the locker room. “You know, just being the second year in the offense, you know, is huge,” Lagway expressed. “We’re gonna change this place, and we’re gonna make it what it used to be.” His enthusiasm is infectious, and it resonates with his teammates. They all share the same vision: to restore Florida football to its former glory.
Rebuilding a Legacy
Changing things to get Florida back to its heyday is no small task. It’s a challenge that Lagway and Napier are ready to tackle head-on. The Gators have a rich history filled with triumphs, and the pressure is on to revive that legacy. But with a shared commitment and a clear purpose, Lagway believes they can achieve it. “From a recruiting standpoint, I feel like that was huge as well,” he noted, referring to the positive momentum generated by their recent win. “A lot of guys hit me up after they saw that, texting me, trying to see what’s going on.”
Consistency Leads to Success
Consistency is key in college football, and it’s something that Lagway emphasizes. “It’s good news for Florida’s recruits too,” he said. “With consistency comes better play, usually anyway.” This belief in stability is crucial for attracting top talent, and it’s clear that Lagway is committed to being a part of that process. He sees the potential for greatness not just for himself, but for the entire program.
A Strong Fan Base and Coaching Staff
“My kind of response to that is just like we got the best fan base in the country,” Lagway stated passionately. “We got coaches that care, and they’re going to develop you, make sure you’re a better player and person on and off the field … I see it.” This sense of community and support is vital for any college program, and Lagway is proud to be a part of it. The Gators have a loyal following, and that energy fuels their drive to succeed.
Napier’s Vision and Leadership
After the game, Napier echoed Lagway’s sentiments about purpose and development. “Let me tell you something. As a coach, it’s always been about purpose. The players are the purpose, right,” he said. His focus on the players’ growth and experience is evident, and he recognizes the challenges they’ve faced. “These guys have been an incredible example of the intangibles that we want our team to be about. The way they’ve stuck together, obviously, a ton of adversity…”
Looking Ahead
While the victory over LSU is a step in the right direction, both Lagway and Napier acknowledge that there’s still work to be done. “A lot we can do better,” Napier admitted. “Hats off to the entire team. I thought we played complementary football. The defense was outstanding. And man, it was electric in here tonight.” This acknowledgment of room for improvement shows a commitment to growth and excellence.
Lagway’s Performance
In the game against LSU, Lagway showcased his skills, finishing 13-of-26 passing for 226 yards and one touchdown. His performance was a testament to his hard work and determination, but he knows that it’s just the beginning. “I think the (DJ Lagway) wanted to play last week. We felt like we were doing what was right by him,” Napier commented, highlighting Lagway’s dedication. “He didn’t miss a rep all week. The training staff did a great job. You know, he was probably 85 percent tonight, but played from within the pocket.”
Embracing the Journey
As the Gators move forward, the excitement is palpable. Lagway’s belief in Napier and the team’s potential is a driving force. They are ready to embrace the challenges ahead, knowing that with hard work, determination, and a supportive community, they can achieve great things. The journey to reclaiming Florida’s football legacy is underway, and with players like Lagway and coaches like Napier at the forefront, the future looks bright.
