Mike Norvell reveals how Florida State overcame Jordan Travis, Jared Verse injuries in Week 3

Florida State had its most challenging game of the 2022 season in Week 3 against the Louisville Cardinals. Not only was Louisville a formidable opponent, but the Seminoles had to deal with a series of significant injuries to key players. Arguably their two most impactful players, quarterback Jordan Travis and defensive standout Jared Verse were knocked out of the game early. But despite that, Florida State pulled off the win 35-31. During a recent appearance on Always College Football, head coach Mike Norvell talked about how the team overcame those two injuries.

“Well, they’re two great players and guys that, just the way that they approach the game, the emotion that they put into it; it’s a challenge,” said Norvell. “But I thought our guys, they went into halftime, and we were able to regroup. And just hearing the energy, excitement, and the way guys rallied behind each other, they believed.”

“To be able to go out and play the way they did in the second half, it took great performances from everybody involved; offense, defense, and special teams. Our guys showed up and really had each other’s back. I thought Tate Rodemaker did a wonderful job coming in and leading that in the second half. I’m just proud of that young man for being prepared when his number was called.”

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Tate Rodemaker had to shake off the early jitters after abruptly jumping in for Travis, who was playing well on Friday night before the injury. In the first half, Rodemaker slipped up late in the second quarter, throwing an interception when the Seminoles threatened to score. After halftime, the sophomore quarterback found his nerves leading Florida State on three scoring drives in the second half, with two ending via a touchdown pass.

Mike Norvell: Florida State must guard against the desire to exhale after 3-0 start

With a 3-0 start, the Seminoles will now continue on with conference play with their ACC home opener against Boston College. A start like this might lead some to be more complacent heading into this weekend’s game against the Eagles. However, Norvell isn’t ready to pat anyone on the back just yet.

Norvell spoke about Florida State avoiding any early satisfaction during media after Tuesday’s practice. He says it’s a value of his that he has instilled in this program to keep a level head, regardless of the outcomes. He wants to keep his players uncomfortable in order for them to reach their real ambitions this season.

“I mean you guard against (complacency) daily, whether it’s good or bad. It goes back to the objective. Today we’ve got to be better,” said Norvell. “I know it’s repetitive but it’s what I believe. It’s what we believe as a program so you have to guard against it every day because human nature wants to exhale. Whether you’re 0-3 or 3-0, the human mind wants to be comfortable. You’ve got to be willing to make yourself uncomfortable ultimately for what you want. And I want to see this team play our best game.”