Graham Mertz transferred out of the Wisconsin Badgers football program following the disappointing season. This wasn’t a surprise as it seemed that both sides needed to go in a new direction. Mertz ended up at the University of Florida where he will get a chance to show what he can do against SEC opponents. He will wear the number 15, a legendary number in the state of Florida.
Graham Mertz Will Wear Tim Tebow’s Number At Florida
Mertz will rock the number 15 this year the same as legendary Florida quarterback Tim Tebow. Mertz comes to Gainesville after several disappointing seasons as a Badger. While Mertz was under center, Wisconsin never made a bowl game and he hopes to prove something in Florida this year. When asked if Mertz wearing 15 might be a message from head coach Billy Napier, Mertz responded with, “You could say that,” according to the Tampa Bay Times. Napier is trying to hype up his quarterback as the team gets ready to try and be players in the SEC again.
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Big Shoes To Fill
It is safe to say that trying to fill Tebow’s shoes as a Gator is a tall task. While at Florida, Tebow led the Gators to two national championships and also won a Heisman trophy. He was a fan favorite and ultimately no matter who wears 15, it will always be his. While Mertz may not be looking to try and surpass Tebow, he is definitely trying to show that he can lead a winning team. It is a chance for redemption after he fizzled out in Madison.
I think Badgers fans are happy with what they got. Mertz was a very polarizing player and Tanner Mordecai looks to bring explosiveness to the offense. Honestly, I hope the best for Mertz. The only way he could burn Wisconsin is if they were to meet in a bowl game or the College Football Playoff something that seems unlikely but still possible. Many Wisconsin fans will likely keep one eye on the Florida Gators season to see how Mertz does.
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