Florida Freshman Wide Receiver Pulls Off Spectacular One-Handed Catch in Dominant Win Over LIU
GAINESVILLE,FL – florida Gators freshman wide receiver Vernell Brown III electrified the crowd Saturday with a highlight-reel,one-handed catch against LIU Brooklyn,drawing comparisons to Odell Beckham Jr.’s iconic 2014 grab. The spectacular play came late in the second quarter and set up a Florida touchdown, contributing to a dominant 38-0 halftime lead.
brown stretched fully to haul in a 41-yard pass from quarterback DJ Lagway, securing the reception despite challenging coverage and landing Florida inside the red zone. While not a touchdown itself, the play ignited the Gators’ offense and led to a three-play, 79-yard drive capped by a touchdown pass from Lagway to J. Michael Sturdivant.
The 6-foot-2 receiver, a five-star recruit and Gainesville native, is ranked as the sixth-best receiver in the Class of 2025 and the 30th overall player by Rivals. Brown finished the first half with three receptions for 79 yards, showcasing his potential as a key weapon for the Gators. Florida ultimately overwhelmed LIU, demonstrating their offensive firepower in a decisive Week 1 victory.