The rivalry between the Florida State Seminoles and the Florida Gators is always intense, and recent history has seen the Gators come out on top. However, a recent podcast appearance by Gators quarterback DJ Lagway has provided some bulletin board material for the Seminoles. Lagway’s comments may have been perceived as dismissive of the Seminoles, but a closer look at the facts reveals a more nuanced story.
While Lagway did have a solid freshman season, leading the Gators to a better-than-expected record, his statistics don’t quite live up to the hype. In fact, former FSU quarterback James Blackman had a more impressive freshman season statistically, despite not being an early enrollee. Lagway’s numbers, while respectable, don’t necessarily justify the level of praise he’s received.
Furthermore, the Seminoles team that the Gators faced in November was a shadow of its former self, struggling with turnovers and inconsistent play. The 2025 season promises to be a different story, with FSU adding 31 new players and hiring two new coordinators. The Seminoles are poised to make a significant turnaround, and the Gators would do well to be cautious in their expectations.
Lagway’s comments may have been seen as confident or even arrogant, but they also betray a lack of understanding of the complexities of the FSU-Gators rivalry. The Seminoles have a rich history of success, and their struggles in 2024 were an anomaly rather than the norm. As the 2025 season approaches, the Gators would do well to focus on their own preparations rather than engaging in trash talk.
In conclusion, while DJ Lagway and the Florida Gators may have had the upper hand in recent years, the FSU Seminoles are poised to make a comeback in 2025. Lagway’s comments may have provided some motivation for the Seminoles, but they also highlight the need for caution and humility in the world of college football. As the rivalry between the Gators and Seminoles continues to simmer, one thing is certain: the 2025 season promises to be an exciting and unpredictable ride.