In a turn of events that may leave the Seminoles scrambling for a game plan, quarterback Tate Rodemaker has decided to step into the NCAA Transfer Portal, and consequently, he will be absent from the Orange Bowl lineup. According to reports from ESPN and Warchant.com, Redshirt junior Rodemaker made the announcement to Florida State's coaches that he would not participate in the upcoming game against Georgia, throwing the No. 4 ranked team in the AP poll a curveball. The Seminoles, despite notching an undefeated 13-0 season, have been snubbed by the College Football Playoff committee, sharing this fate with their bowl opponent Georgia.
Following the departure of Jordan Travis, who has played out his eligibility, and the redshirt freshman AJ Duffy who announced his transfer to San Diego State, Florida State will be left with one scholarship quarterback, freshman Brock Glenn. Glenn, who seems undeterred by the pressure, is noted for his maiden start during the Atlantic Coast Conference title game. Mike Norvell, who heads the Seminoles' coaching staff, expressed his unwavering confidence in Glenn, stating, "Life is full of choices and the opportunity that we have now, Brock (Glenn), who started the (ACC) championship game for us, is going to be the starter here for the Orange Bowl," as reported by WPTV.
While Rodemaker had been sidelined due to an injury sustained in the November 25 victory over Florida, his announcement to transfer comes as a surprise, especially considering that he was back in practice preparing for postseason play. During this season, the Georgia native quarterback completed 57.1% of his passes for 510 yards and five touchdowns, impressively without any interceptions. His contributions included a notable performance against Florida, where he completed 12 of 25 passes for 134 yards, helping to secure a Seminoles' victory, as noted by SI.
Florida State's trials don't end with Rodemaker's exit. The team has seen a slew of players enter the transfer portal, including quarterback AJ Duffy, running back Rodney Hill, and multiple offensive linemen and defensive players. Moreover, a few key players such as running back Trey Benson, and defensive end Jared Verse, have their eyes set on the NFL Draft, opting out of the Orange Bowl – though their focus on their pro careers is hardly a shock in the current collegiate athletic climate. With so many players on the move, Norvell's squad will have to muster all the resilience and adaptability it can, to face Georgia at the Orange Bowl stage.
In the midst of this shakeup, Florida State does not appear to be dwelling on the setbacks. Norvell's practical approach to the turnover speaks volumes as he places confidence in the players who remain committed to the team. "It's about the players that are here and the work that they put in," Norvell emphasized to reporters. Whatever the outcome at the Hard Rock Stadium, it will reflect the true spirit and cohesion of the Seminoles, as well as what could be a defining moment for young Glenn who carries on his shoulders, not just the hopes of a win but the proving of a point – Florida State can handle the heat, even when the fire seems to rage from within.
