Wisconsin transfer QB Graham Mertz made his first start for the Florida Gators on Thursday night against Utah inside Rice-Eccles Stadium. Despite an ugly offensive performance that led to Florida’s 24-11 loss, Mertz completed 31 of his 44 passes (70.5%) for a career-high 333 yards, one touchdown, and one interception for a 139.8 passing efficiency in his first start in Orange & Blue.
Mertz’s lone interception came on a miscommunication with veteran WR Ricky Pearsall. Utah sent a beautifully designed blitz that broke through the Gators’ offensive line, forcing Mertz to get the ball out quickly on a 3rd and 6 from Florida’s 11-yard line.