Graham Mertz reacts to late hit on kneel down: ‘weirdest end to a game’

The Florida Gators had a two-score lead in the closing seconds against the Tennessee Volunteers. That’s when Tennessee coach Josh Heupel called a timeout to force another play, which ended with a late hit on Florida quarterback Graham Mertz.

The Gators came to Mertz’s defense and a scuffle started. After the game, Mertz explained that Florida’s actions in that moment showed how close they are as a team.

“I think that just shows what this locker room is about,” Graham Mertz said. “I can say, from my end, I love every single guy in that locker room and I’m gonna fight with them every single day. I think that’s across the board. So that definitely means a ton.”

A transfer from Wisconsin, this was Mertz’s first time playing in the Florida-Tennessee rivalry. It was a very successful introduction to the game for him, too. Florida won 29-16 in an upset win that propelled the Gators into the AP Top 25.

Mertz himself was 19 for 24 passing for 166 yards and a touchdown in the game. He also ran for another score. It was a night and day showing for both him and the offense as a whole compared to Week 1 against Utah.

“That was just the weirdest end to a game I’ve ever had, but I guess that’s Florida-Tennessee,” Mertz laughed. “That’s kind of how it goes, but I’m excited. I’m proud of this group.”

Florida will host Charlotte next week out of the AAC. After that, the Gators are going to return to SEC play with a potentially tricky game against Kentucky.

Josh Heupel reacted to the late hit on Graham Mertz

Immediately following the game, Josh Heupel explained what happened in the closing moments of the game and the hit on Graham Mertz from his point of view. Heupel explained that Tennessee needed to get the ball back to try and score twice given the game situation.

“That sequence right there, we’re trying to get the ball back, right. Trying to take a shot at the end zone. I don’t know if we’re gonna have enough time for an onside and maybe get it and get a shot back, but you’re trying to finish and compete the right way,” Heupel said.

“He’s dancing around. Do you want the targeting? Obviously not, but the guy’s dancing around, so you’ve got to go tackle the guy too. So, do we want to be composed in that situation and all situations? Absolutely.”