Billy Napier shares initial impressions of Florida’s Orange and Blue spring game

With 27 early enrollees on the field, Billy Napier got to see some new, younger Florida players in a game-like situation in Thursday’s Orange and Blue spring game. As the fourth quarter winded down, he shared his initial impressions with ESPN’s Pete Thamel.

The Orange team got the victory 10-7 thanks to a walk-off field goal, and Napier said there were many teachable moments. That might be expected with such a young group and so many newcomers, and that will be next week’s focus.

All in all, though, the second-year headman was happy with where his team’s at.

“Lot of young players getting an opportunity to play,” Napier said. “New players, right. Overall, the defense made a lot harder. Certainly, you’ve got to be pleased with that given where we were as a team. Unbelievable experience and opportunity for this group. Great film to teach and learn from and looking forward to that opportunity on Monday.”

The game also provided the first look at Graham Mertz, the former Wisconsin quarterback competing with Jack Miller for the starting job. He looked solid, throwing for 244 yards on 18-of-29 passing and a touchdown in his first action with the Gators. Miller, meanwhile, threw for 144 yards on 10-of-30 passing and a touchdown of his own.

Mertz’s touchdown came late in the first half during at two-minute drill, and Napier said he liked what he saw.

“[In the] two-minute before the half, he did a good job getting some completions early and then, took a calculated risk,” Napier said. “Then to manage the pressure and throw a touchdown, I thought it was a good sign.”

It wasn’t easy for Mertz throughout the night, and Napier previously pointed to the messy pocket he had to deal with in the first half. But he still handled himself alright, and Napier acknowledged it was a good test for the transfer QB.

“No doubt,” Napier said. “This group up front is creating issues on both sides. I think we’re gonna look back at this and see some miscommunication. Got some young players, a little bit different lineup on both fronts. … A little bit muddy in there in the middle tonight. But overall, I think he’s made some plays with his feet. He got outside the pocket, made a few plays on scramble or two. Did a lot of learning — not just for him, but a lot of players.”

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