Braden Fiske opens up on how special Florida State’s season was

Braden Fiske was only at Florida State for one season, but it was a special one. The defensive lineman spent five seasons at Western Michigan before transferring to FSU ahead of the 2023 campaign. In a conversation with On3’s Andy Staples, Fiske reflected on his lone season with the Seminoles.

“It was super special to finally because Florida State is a historic program. To be able to — I wouldn’t necessarily say bring them back — but to be a part of it,” Fiske said. “I think we should have been in that playoff but when we beat Clemson, to see the look of those guys’ faces of just like wow, just getting over that hump was huge.”

Before this past season, Florida State had not defeated Clemson since Sept. 20, 2014. Fiske played a significant role in the historic win, tallying six tackles. It wasn’t the only time Fiske stepped up when his team needed it most.

The 6-foot-5, 297-pound veteran exploded for a season-high nine tackles in FSU’s win over Louisville in the ACC Championship. He added three sacks in the victory, as well. Fisked finished Florida State’s record-breaking season with 43 tackles and six sacks.

For his efforts, Fiske was named to the AP All-America third team and the All-ACC second team. In December, Fiske raved about his short time in Tallahassee.

Braden Fiske shows gratitude to Florida State

“I think it’s been huge,” Fiske said. “Being in the same system that I was for five years at my last school and then having the same coaching there from scheme-wise, then technique-wise… think it’s been honestly the biggest growth of my career. 

“It’s going to set me up even better going to the next level because I had that transition period of getting into a new scheme, having to adapt and re-learn new terminology — I think that’s been the most enjoyable part.”

Fiske isn’t the only one who’s noticed his improvement. Florida State defensive coordinator Adam Fuller praised Fuller’s growth ahead of the Orange Bowl.

“When he made this step, part of the step was he wanted to compete against the best. He wanted to improve his technique,” Fuller said. “His hand placement, how he played with his hands, wasn’t where he needed to be in order for him to play against the top-level teams in the country. I think that’s why you’ve seen his production explode as the season went on.”

Now, Fiske will have an opportunity to show off his development. On Saturday, he will compete in the Reese’s Senior Bowl at 1 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on the NFL Network.