Mike Norvell evaluates Florida State's backup QB job behind Jordan Travis

Florida State returns veteran quarterback Jordan Travis for the 2023 season. He’ll be a huge part of the team’s success this year but head coach Mike Norvell also knows that one play could force a backup into action. So, it’s vital that the backup spot is secured.

With the 2023 season rapidly approaching, Norvell broke down the backup quarterback situation in Tallahassee.

“They all had their moments today,” Mike Norvell said. “And I think Tate [Rodemaker] has had a really good Fall Camp. You see AJ [Duffy], you see Brock [Glenn], I mean, Brock is progressing at a very high level and I really like the consistency he’s shown.”

Brock Glenn, who Norvell highlighted was a three-star recruit in the Class of 2023, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. For their parts, AJ Duffy was a four-star recruit in the 2022 cycle and Tate Rodemaker was a three-star in the 2020 cycle, respectively.

“He had a couple of plays today that he’s got to learn from and that’s part of being a true freshman, but ultimately, for where we are right now, I’m not always gonna stop a game just because a true freshman is putting himself in a position to step on the field. So, we all have to push.”

While Mike Norvell declined to name a second-string quarterback, he did also praise Tate Rodemaker and pointed out that he’s excited about the entire quarterback room.

“I think Tate has done — his overall understanding of the offense, what we want him to do, we’ve seen it live in action. But, all of those guys are continuing to compete and today’s film will be a great evaluation, but we grade everything. So, we have 15 practices, two scrimmages. As I mentioned, last week we had guys live we wanted to see them with the possibility of being hit. Just what it looks like,” Norvell said.

“So, we’ve got great evaluation in all those areas and you’re definitely excited about that quarterback room It’s a talented room and it’s one that I believe we’ve got one of the best quarterbacks in the country in Jordan Travis. Ultimately, we’ve got guys that we can win with that are in that room with him.”

Mike Norvell on the metamorphosis of Jordan Travis

Over the years, Jordan Travis has gone from a relatively overlooked quarterback to one of the best in the game. It’s a change that doesn’t surprise Mike Norvell at all.

“It truly came down to work. We had a great plan in helping Jordan develop to build confidence in what we were asking him to do. We’re a rhythm-based passing offense and I think that’s something that Jordan thrives in. He’s an extremely smart quarterback. He understands progressions. He understands protections and where the ball needs to go in a very quick process in his mind. As he’s worked through it, he’s had to go through the highs and lows of playing quarterback. He’s experienced it all, but he’s never backed off. He’s continued to push,” Norvell said.

“I’ve had the utmost confidence in where he would develop and what he would grow into. Nothing that he’s done has surprised me. I’ve set the highest expectations for him and I believe the sky’s the limit for what he can accomplish not only in his final year here at Florida State but for in his future because of the work he’s willing to put in.”