It’s been up-and-down from Florida and quarterback Graham Mertz to start the season, opening with a loss at No. 14 Utah, an upset defeat of No. 11 Tennessee, and more recently a thrashing by Kentucky.
However, this past weekend, the Gators and Mertz finally put all the pieces together with a 38-14 win over SEC rivals Vanderbilt that saw Florida run and pass the ball with an effectiveness they’ve been lacking all season.
The win was led by Mertz who managed season-best in almost every category with a completion percentage of 83%, throwing for 254 yards, and finding three touchdowns without a single interception.
Mertz 36 passing attempts on the night also marked a season-high as the Wisconsin transfer found receivers Arlis Boardingham and Tre Wilson for his three TD’s against the Commodores.
Along with that, Mertz has quietly come on this season currently sitting top-35 in passing yards, top-20 in passing efficiency, and second nationally in completion percentage, all while limiting himself to just two interceptions.
Next on the docket though, the Gators will have to face a much tougher SEC foe in South Carolina who’ve already beaten Mississippi State and gave No. 1 Georgia a battle three weeks back.
He’s already helped to create some big time wins for this Gators program but as Mertz’ continues to progress and get comfortable in this offensive system, watch for Florida to prove competitive down the stretch in the SEC.
