Destyn Hill waiting to experience first gameday atmosphere

It’s been a long time coming for Florida State receiver Destyn Hill. In exactly one week, he will make his Seminoles debut in a top 10 matchup against No. 5 LSU in Orlando.

That would be a special moment for any player, but it brings a bit of extra significance for Hill. He originally committed to the Seminoles as a member of the 2021 class but a personal matter kept him from joining the team until this spring.

Now set to enter his freshman season of college two years after completing his senior year of high school, Hill explained what his mindset is as game day approaches.

“I knew that the game is coming up, but I didn’t fully grasp the moment yet,” he said. “I’m waiting until I walk in the stadium and see 100,000 people and just seeing what kind of feeling I get. I don’t think I’m gonna be nervous, but my teammates told me I will be. But I’m ready for it. I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time and I’m ready to get at it.”

Destyn Hill was one of the top members of Florida State’s 2021 class, choosing the Seminoles over offers from other high-profile programs such as Alabama, Georgia, LSU and more. He ranked as the No. 112 overall player and No. 18 receiver in the class according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Florida State already has its top two receiving options locked in with last year’s leading receiver Johnny Wilson and Michigan State transfer Keon Coleman. Winston Wright also returns after missing the entire 2022 season due to injuries he suffered in a car accident following his transfer from West Virginia.

Even so, Hill has done enough throughout fall camp to make his coaches take notice. Offensive coordinator Alex Atkins recently praised the receiver’s mindset and desire to improve after sitting out the past two years. Similarly, receivers coach Ron Dugans said he’s seen Hill “pushing himself” to earn reps.

From the sound of it, Florida State expects Hill to contribute right away this season. And if he happens to be called upon early against the Tigers, he’ll be ready no matter how big the stage might seem.

“I’m just waiting for the moment to come,” he said “I’m just working, getting ready and waiting for the moment.”