Redshirt freshman Graham Mertz was pressed into duty Friday night for his first career start, and it’s so far gone better than anyone could have imagined.
Mertz, a four-star recruit from Kansas, started against the Illinois Fighting Illini after regular starter Jack Coan underwent foot surgery earlier in October. Mertz promptly went 14/14 in the first half, throwing for 190 yards and four touchdowns.
They weren’t easy touchdowns, either. Mertz’s fourth score was a perfectly floated pass to wide receiver Danny Davis to beat the secondary.
WELCOME TO THE @GrahamMertz SHOW pic.twitter.com/BGSlY7E0iN
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 24, 2020
Mertz’s performance even gained the attention of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
That man @GrahamMertz5 going crazy tonight!
— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) October 24, 2020
Mertz was recruited by the likes of Ohio State, Clemson, and Alabama, but ultimately decided to join the Badgers. He came with a pedigree, having gained attention after throwing five touchdown passes and winning MVP honors at the 2019 All-American Bowl. If this is a sign of things to come, they’ll be very happy about that. It also means that, at this rate, Coan might not have a starting job once he’s healthy again.
