3 reasons why Billy Napier's Florida lost to Georgia

Florida’s inconsistent start to the 2024 college football season continued as it suffered its fourth loss on Saturday. The Gators lost 32-20 to Georgia in the “World's largest cocktail party.”

The loss marks the Gators’ fourth consecutive loss to the Bulldogs as the program continues to find its footing in college football. It also complicates their season further with Billy Napier's job under significant threat.

Here's a look at three reasons why Florida lost to Georgia at the Everbank Stadium on Saturday.

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Three reasons why Florida lost to Georgia

#1 DJ Lagway’s injury

True freshman DJ Lagway took over as the starting quarterback after Graham Mertz suffered a season-ending injury with an ACL tear. The Gators lost Lagway to a hamstring injury in the second quarter of the game, which played a crucial role in their loss.

Florida was leading 10-3 when Lagway excited with 5:01 left in the second quarter. Third-string quarterback Aidan Warner entered to lead the Gators’ offense, but his performance wasn’t good enough to secure victory.

With Warner at quarterback, the Gators managed just 10 points the rest of the game. However, he struggled mightily, completing only 7-of-22 pass attempts for 66 yards while also tossing an interception.

#2 Special team mistake

A couple of special team mistakes played a role in Florida’s loss to Georgia. With the Gators keeping up with the stronger Bulldogs, the special team didn't do well to match the energy.

Rocco Underwood sent a low snap that Jeremy Crawshaw couldn’t handle, resulting in a fumble that rolled 31 yards back into the Gators' territory. Jalon Walker recovered the ball at the Gators’ 36-yard line. Carson Beck found Cash Jones for a 22-yard touchdown just two plays later.

Early on, Trey Smack, who had nailed a 53-yarder late in the first half, lined up for a 51-yard field goal attempt late in the third quarter. Smack aimed to give the Gators the lead with the field goal but never had the opportunity to make the kick.

#3 The Gators’ overall struggle

Coming into the game, Florida wasn't designed to win against Georgia. The Gators have struggled significantly this season, entering the game with a 4-3 record. Without a doubt, they were no match for the Bulldogs, who are considered a national title contender.

The Gators' struggles in all phases of the game pointed to their potential loss. Georgia entered as a 16-point favorite, offering a low chance of an upset. The way the game turned out proved why they had little to no chance of winning despite the rivalry spirit.