The 2020 COVID pandemic still has lingering effects on college football after the NCAA granted student-athletes an extra year of eligibility following the pandemic-shortened season. Among the ramifications of the decision is the extension of college careers for some football field warriors.
The Florida Gators are one of the programs that benefited from this extension, entering the 2024 campaign with two former transfer portal acquisitions looking to make a mark in the twilight of their amateur eligibility.
Quarterback Graham Mertzex- Wisconsin BadgersAnd security Asa Turnerex- Washington Huskiesare the two players Atlético Stewart Mandel and Max Olson were highlighted on his All-“Wait, they’re still playing college football?!” Team – both began their collegiate careers in 2019.
QB Graham Mertz
“This October will mark seven years since the top 100 recruit filled Wisconsin fans with euphoria by becoming the program’s highest-rated QB commitment since… ever?
“Unfortunately, his four-year career in Madison was filled with more mediocrity than glory, but with a fresh start in Gainesville, he improved dramatically last year (72.9% pass rate, 20 TDs, 3 INTs). Mertz is back for what will likely be his fifth consecutive season as a college starter.”
Asa Turner
“Turner was a true freshman at Washington during Chris Petersen’s final season and started 28 of 43 games during his five seasons with the Huskies.
“He’s back for another one, this time in the SEC with the Alligatorsthanks to an interesting technicality: Turner played in four regular-season games in 2023 and was able to count it as a redshirt season — even though he returned from injury in time to play in the Pac-12 title game and both games of the CFP.
“Yes, that’s right, a seven-game redshirt. I don’t think we’ve seen that before.”
Florida’s 2024 season opener
Florida opens its 2024 regular season schedule at the Swamp against the Miami Hurricanes on August 31. Kickoff time is set for 3:30 pm ET and the game will be broadcast on ABC Sports.
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