2024 SEASON-IN-REVIEW

Record: 8-5, Win vs. Tulane in Gasparilla Bowl (33-8)

Florida navigated one of the most difficult schedules in the nation last year. The Gators found their next quarterback in DJ Lagway. He helped the team win back-to-back games against LSU and Ole Miss before dominating Florida State to end the season. Florida found a way to win eight games last season and that number could go up this year.

OFFENSE: Gators Found Their Next QB

Along with an incredibly difficult schedule in 2024, the Gators were able to find what they hope is their next great quarterback.

Lagway took over for Graham Mertz last season. While he was not perfect, he showed great ability as a true freshman, especially from the pocket. Lagway threw nine interceptions and this is something that will have to slow down but that could be expected in his second season.

Lagway, who is not much of a dual-threat, has a strong backfield to work with. Jadan Baugh finished with 673 yards and seven touchdowns during his freshman year. Ja’Kobi Jackson is also back after scoring seven times.

The wide receiver room improved with the addition of J Michael Sturdivant — a UCLA transfer. This was a much-needed addition to a thin room. Eugene Wilson and Aidan Mizell both finished with under 20 catches but have a chance to thrive in a bigger role.

The offensive line will be among the best in the SEC. Austin Barber is back at left tackle and is one of five returning starters.

DEFENSE: Can the Talent Live Up to Hype?

Florida has all of the potential in the world on the defensive side of the ball. Will it come together on the field?

The defensive line returns Tyreak Sapp, who finished with 13 tackles for loss and seven sacks last season. He will be joined by George Gumbs ad Kamran James. The depth is there in the front seven and it continues in the middle.

Myles Graham is part of a strong freshman class. He got his feet wet last season and will now be a major factor. Jaden Robinson made 52 tackles last season while being in the mix.

The secondary stepped up during the toughest part of the schedule last season. Florida began taking the ball away and that will be a priority once again. Bryce Thornton came away with three interceptions while Jordan Castell showed off his multi-faceted skillset at safety. He can play anywhere, finishing with 55 tackles and nine passes defended.

2025 FLORIDA FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

• Saturday, Aug. 30: vs. LIU
• Saturday, Sept. 6: vs. South Florida
• Saturday, Sept. 13: at LSU
• Saturday, Sept. 20: at Miami
• Saturday, Oct. 4: vs. Texas
• Saturday, Oct. 11: at Texas A&M
• Saturday, Oct. 18: vs. Mississippi State
• Saturday, Nov. 1: vs. Georgia
• Saturday, Nov. 8: at Kentucky
• Saturday, Nov. 15: at Ole Miss
• Saturday, Nov. 22: vs. Tennessee
• Saturday, Nov. 29: vs. Florida State