Florida vs. Utah score, highlights: Graham Mertz struggles in mistake-filled loss to Utes

Florida’s long-awaited 2023 college football opener — and debut for Wisconsin transfer Graham Mertz — resulted in a frustrating, mistake-filled loss for the Gators at Utah.

The Utes scored a resounding 24-11 victory over Billy Napier’s Florida team, one that likely stings even worse for Gators fans considering Utah’s starting quarterback Cam Rising was out with a nagging ACL injury. Those feelings likely were exacerbated considering the number of self-inflicted mistakes that contributed to Florida’s loss, including nine committed penalties for a combined 45 yards.

Mertz’s first start as a Gator saw him complete 31 of 44 passes for 333 yards for one touchdown and one interception, a stat line that belies a tough debut for the Wisconsin transfer. Part of the reason for his struggles was his offensive line, which surrendered six sacks and contributed to a dismal 1-of-13 success rate on third down.

The rushing wasn’t much better, as Utah stymied the Gators’ rushing attack to just 21 yards on 13 attempts (good for a paltry 0.6 rushing yards per attempt). But perhaps the worst stat of the night for Florida was its red zone inefficiency: The Gators not only scored just one touchdown on four trips, but also had three second-half turnovers on downs.

Conversely, Utah got efficient play from backup quarterbacks Bryson Barnes (12 of 18 passing, 159 yards passing, one touchdown) and Nate Johnson (six rushes, 45 yards, one touchdown). The Utes also hounded Mertz all night, capitalizing on Florida’s mistakes to grind out the win.

Check out all the updates, scores and highlights from the Florida’s opening-season open loss to Utah: