Florida State quarterback competition rages on as opener vs. Notre Dame looms

Mike Norvell still has some big decisions to make prior to the Florida State Seminoles first game against Notre Dame. Today, he revealed that the team’s quarterback competition between McKenzie Milton and Jordan Travis rages on.

“We’re going to continue to evaluate that,” stated Norvell, via Noles247.com. “As a staff, we’ll have a pretty good plan going into next week of what we want it to look like. At the end of the day, it’s always a constant competition. 

“If there was just one piece of it, it probably would be a little bit easier. We’ve got some talented guys. Guys that are competing at a high level. We’re going to continue to see that as we progress through. 

“If we make a decision early, then we’ll announce that.”

While Norvell isn’t in a hurry to make a decision, he’s mentioned being impressed with both his potential options. Last week, he detailed the duo’s explosiveness in the team’s scrimmage. 

“I thought both Jordan and McKenzie had some explosiveness.”

The Florida State scrimmage from earlier this month was a good one for both Travis and Milton, encouraging the Seminoles coaches. Both made mistakes, but the abilities of each player were on display.

“Offensively, had some mistakes early that we just can’t have,” Norvell said. “We’re in some long-yardage situations. Took a couple of negative plays I didn’t think we needed to take. But it’s going to be great film and opportunities to learn and grow from. 

“I thought the offense rebounded as the scrimmage went on and really finished up well. I mean there’s some explosive plays. I thought both Jordan and McKenzie had some explosiveness that definitely was great to see.”

Evidently, the decision on the team’s starting quarterback hasn’t been made any easier since. According to Norvell, both players have been extremely impressive while being embroiled in competition.

Florida State QBs in 2020

This season, Travis returns to the Seminoles after starting six games for the team in 2020. He completed 55 percent of his passes, accumulating 1,056 yards, six touchdowns and six interceptions. 

Additionally, Travis also ran for 559 yards and seven touchdowns. 

On the other hand, Milton is returning to the football field for the first time since the 2018 season, following a major leg injury. In three seasons at UCF, Milton threw for 8,683 yards, 72 touchdowns and 22 interceptions. Also, he added 1,078 yards and 20 rushing touchdowns.

While Mike Norvell may not be ready to name his starting quarterback, it’s obvious that Jordan Travis and McKenzie Milton are both capable options. As their competition rages on, one of them will receive the honor of starting for Florida State to open the season.