EXCLUSIVE: Debate between DJ Lagway and Graham Mertz settled, Jesse Palmer solves Billy Napier's dilemma

Is the Florida quarterback dilemma finally solved? At least for one Gators alum, it is. Senior QB Graham Mertz started Florida's game opener with a tough 17:41 loss to No. 19 Miami. The following week, freshman QB DJ Lagway got the chance to make his first start against Samford, which he dominated in a 45-7 win. But HC Billy Napier's decision to start Mertz instead of Lagway in Week 3 sparked anger among fans, even going so far as to question his career at Florida after the loss to Texas A&M. As the season progresses, Mertz is still listed as the starter, but the Gators follow a two-quarterback system.

We were able to connect with former NFL quarterback Jesse Palmer for an exclusive interview where he gave us his thoughts on the QB battle in Florida. When asked who would be better suited as the main QB, the Canadian TV star and sports commentator replied: “Well, I think the plan right now is to play both guys. They're both really good.”

Jesse Palmer began by praising Mertz, who turned the game around with back-to-back wins against Mississippi and UCF: “Graham Mertz is proving to be a leader in this locker room. He has achieved great success in big games.” The 23-year-old just rushed for 179 yards and a touchdown in a 24-13 win over the Knights. Palmer didn't reject it 2023 Gatorade Football Player of the Year who received playing time in both Week 3 and Week 4. He explained: “DJ Lagway is no question the future of the program. It's important he takes snaps now to gain that crucial experience.”

DJ Lagway proved his hype back in Week 2 when he led the Gators to their biggest win of the season with 456 yards and three touchdowns. He also received more hype in the last UCF game when he went 4 of 4 for 50 yards. Palmer commented on the QB situation: “This is obviously something HC Billy Napier will have to juggle as he moves forward.” Hopefully this dual QB system will be beneficial for both the QBs and the program in the long run and in the next game against Tennessee.

Can Billy Napier Tennessee's Gators survive as underdogs?

Billy Napier and Florida travel to Tennessee for the SEC showdown on Oct. 13 at Neyland Stadium on the no drives of each half while Lagway starts the third and sixth drives. Tennessee suffered a shocking 19-14 singles loss in their last contest against Arkansas, with their QB Nico Iamaleava's completion percentage limited to just 57 percent.

Florida leads the all-time record against Tennessee with a record of 31-21. They went 29-16 against the Vols last season, but could this season turn the tide? But this year Florida isn't showing its dominance like it did last season, resulting in a Big loss for Billy Napier. Tennessee enters its Week 7 game against Florida as a 17-point favorite. But there is hope that the Gators can pull off an upset against their ranked SEC opponent.