Desmond Howard claims Florida needs ‘more consistent play’ at quarterback

Desmond Howard didn’t hold back. On Thursday, the ESPN analyst discussed the improvements Florida needs to make to defeat Utah in its season opener. Like a bloodthirsty linebacker, Howard attacked the man behind center.

“This is gonna sound kind of crazy because they had Anthony Richardson at the quarterback position a year ago and he was a first-round draft pick and actually he’s been picked to start the first game, but I think they need more consistent play at the quarterback position,” Howard said. “We talked about Graham Mertz, the transfer, they need to get him comfortable. In order to get Graham Mertz comfortable, you want to have a balanced attack.”

It’s difficult to ask a transfer quarterback to outplay Richardson. The 6-foot-4 QB started in all 12 games last season, tallying 2,549 passing yards and 17 touchdowns for an average of 212.42 yards per game. Additionally, Richardson was second on the team in rushing touchdowns and third in rushing yards.

Nonetheless, he wasn’t perfect. Richardson tossed nine interceptions last season, including four picks through the first three games. If Mertz can boast a bit more accuracy, he’ll exceed Richardson in one area on the field.

Mertz will make his debut for Florida at 8 p.m. ET when the Gators square off against Utah. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.

This story will be updated.

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