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Welcome to The Chief Brief!

Happy humpday, Seminole!

Here’s the docket we’ve got for you today:

🔥 Recruitment Battle Heats Up for Jeramiah McCloud 🔥 Jeramiah McCloud, the talented 6-foot-3, 280-pound defensive lineman, is still open to offers despite his commitment to Florida. With top programs like Georgia, Florida State, LSU, and Auburn vying for his attention, McCloud’s recruitment remains highly competitive.

🏀 Puma Pro16 Finals: Rising Stars and FSU Prospects Shine 🏀 The first-ever Puma Pro16 Finals showcased both top-30 players and emerging talents. Florida State targets like Kelvin Odih stood out, demonstrating impressive skills and catching the eye of scouts and coaches. Odih's performance highlighted his potential as a key future player for FSU.

🏀 UAA Finals Recap: Emerging Stars and FSU Targets Shine 🏀 The Under Armour Finals concluded with standout performances from top prospects, including several FSU targets. Adrien Stevens and Shon Abaev, among others, showcased their talent, making significant impressions and highlighting the depth of potential future Seminoles.

🔥 Seminole Showcase: FSU's Next Generation of Quarterbacks 🔥 Florida State’s Seminole Showcase on July 27 will spotlight future quarterback talents. With commitments from Tramell Jones (2025) and Brady Smigiel (2026), and rising prospects like Trent Seaborn and Mason Holtzclaw (2027), this event offers a glimpse into FSU’s quarterback future.

🌟 ACC Media Days: Florida State Poised for Another Championship Run 🌟 As the ACC Media Days unfold, Florida State is in a strong position to defend their ACC Championship title in 2024. With the addition of new teams and an influx of transfer talent, the Seminoles are gearing up for another competitive season. The ACC Championship Game returns to Charlotte, promising an exciting conclusion to the season.

🔥 Recruitment Battle Heats Up for Jeramiah McCloud 🔥

Jeramiah McCloud, a 6-foot-3, 280-pound defensive lineman, has been committed to Florida since May after flipping from Mississippi State.

However, several top programs, including Georgia, Florida State, LSU, and Auburn, continue to pursue him.

🏈 Georgia's Push Georgia remains a strong contender in McCloud's recruitment. Having recently transferred back to Lee County (Ga.), McCloud has a deep connection with the state.

He visited Georgia earlier this spring and plans to return before Signing Day. "Georgia, that's a big factor in my recruitment. Me being from Georgia, knowing a top school in the country is recruiting me, it means a lot," McCloud said.

🏟️ Upcoming Visits McCloud has planned an official visit to Florida State for the Clemson game this fall and is likely to schedule visits with Georgia, LSU, and Auburn. His hometown connection to Georgia and the influence of Coach Kirby Smart are significant factors in his decision-making process.

🤝 Commitment Status While committed to Florida, McCloud remains open to other options. "I'm committed to Florida, but I want to make sure that's the right fit for me, so I'm still keeping my options open," he explained. McCloud's relationship with Florida's coaching staff and his experiences in Gainesville have made a strong impression, but the competition remains fierce.

McCloud ranks as the nation's 45th-ranked defensive lineman in the 247Sports composite and is projected to play as an interior defensive lineman at the next level.

Read more here

🏀 Puma Pro16 Finals: Rising Stars and FSU Prospects Shine 🏀

The first-ever Puma Pro16 Finals concluded with BTI United winning the 17U division, led by top-30 players Xavion Staton and Nikolas Khamenia.

Beyond the well-known names, several under-the-radar talents caught the eye of college coaches and scouts. Here's an overview and a focus on the Florida State components.

Overview of the Event

Kelvin Odih (Rhode Island Elite)

• Status: Four-star, No. 119 in 2025

• Offers: Florida State, Colorado, Creighton, Iowa, LSU, Marquette, Missouri, Penn State, Rutgers, SMU, Texas A&M, Xavier

• Performance: Showcased athleticism and defensive potential; hit mid-range jumpers and executed big dunks

• Visits: Scheduled for Creighton (Sept. 13), Colorado (Sept. 20), and Rutgers (Sept. 27)

Quentin Rhymes (Las Vegas Knicks)

• Recruitment: Recently added offers from Boise State, Loyola Marymount, Nebraska, New Mexico, Pepperdine, TCU, UC Santa Barbara, Wichita State, Wisconsin-Green Bay

• Performance: Scored 40 points in a standout game, demonstrating shooting, athleticism, and confidence

• Visits: Planned to visit Nebraska (Sept. 20), New Mexico, and UCSB

Tyrus Rathan-Mayes (Cooz Elite)

• Status: No. 150 in 2025

• Skills: Versatile, can handle the ball, shoot, slash to the rim, and defend multiple positions

• Recruitment: Considering offers from Boston College, Nevada, Rice, UT Arlington; visits to New Mexico and Wichita State likely

Peyton White (BTI United)

• Attributes: Tough, tenacious, 6-foot-6, 220 pounds; known for energy and versatility

• Offers: Rice, San Jose State; interested in Cal State Fullerton, UC Irvine, Washington State

Isaiah Johnson (BTI United)

• Performance: Quick with the ball, able to hit gaps in defense as a passer and driver, unafraid of contact

• Recruitment: Interest from multiple mid-major programs

Jaylen Fenner (FAM Elite)

• Performance: Solidly built, does a little bit of everything, and contributes within the team flow

• Recruitment: Offers from Louisiana Tech, Stephen F. Austin, UTSA, and other mid-majors

Jacorey Robinson (MPJ Elite)

• Performance: Showed athleticism and intense defense, played harder than others on the floor

• Recruitment: Holds offers from Austin Peay and Murray State

Chris Birden (Louisiana Elite)

• Attributes: Young for his class, 6-foot-8, good physical tools, needs to harness potential

• Recruitment: Set to reclassify to 2026 and attend prep school

Adama Tambedou (Rhode Island Elite)

• Attributes: Chiseled physique, monster athlete, plays with a non-stop motor, needs polish

• Recruitment: Will be prepping in the Northeast, level of prospect yet to be determined

Florida State Components

Kelvin Odih: A Key Target

• Profile: Ranked No. 119 in the class of 2025, Odih is a highly sought-after four-star prospect with a reputation for his defensive prowess and athleticism.

• Performance Highlights: Odih demonstrated his ability to be physically imposing on the court, scoring with mid-range jumpers and powerful dunks. His play style is reminiscent of Tony Allen and Luguentz Dort, providing a mix of defense and offensive capability.

• Recruitment Status: While Odih hasn't finalized his college choice, he is set to visit Creighton, Colorado, and Rutgers in September. Florida State remains a significant contender among his many offers.

The Puma Pro16 Finals showcased numerous talents who could potentially impact college basketball, with Florida State keeping a close eye on key prospects like Kelvin Odih.

Read more here

🏀 UAA Finals Recap: Emerging Stars and FSU Targets Shine 🏀

The grassroots circuit season has officially come to an end, and the Under Armour Finals concluded with Seattle Select, Team Thrill, and KC Run GMC hoisting trophies on Championship Sunday.

The top national names in attendance shined throughout the weekend, but several standout performances deserve special attention.

Davis Fogle's Dominant Performance

Davis Fogle, a 6-foot-6 swingman committed to Gonzaga, led Seattle Select to victory in the UA Rise Championship with an impressive 43-point outing.

Fogle demonstrated his scoring ability, playmaking skills, and defensive prowess, solidifying his status as one of the top prospects in the Under Armour Association.

Marcus Jackson Steps Up for Team Thrill

Despite the absence of top-75 rising senior Chance Mallory, Team Thrill won their second Under Armour title in three years.

Four-star recruit Marcus Jackson, a 6-foot-8 big man, showcased his athleticism and defensive capabilities, earning praise for his performance throughout the weekend.

Focus on Florida State Prospects

Adrien Stevens: A Defensive Powerhouse

• Profile: Ranked No. 93 in the national 2025 class, Stevens is a 6-foot-4 guard from Potomac (Md.) Bullis School.

• Performance: Stevens displayed his defensive skills and physicality, making life difficult for ball handlers and forcing turnovers. Offensively, he drove the ball with clever moves and let the game come to him, positively impacting his team's performance.

• Recruitment: Stevens is considering Florida State, Georgetown, Marquette, Notre Dame, Tennessee, and Villanova. His physical prowess and game sense should earn him early playing time at any of these schools.

Shon Abaev: A Versatile Big Wing

• Profile: Ranked within the top 50 of the national 2025 class, Abaev is known for his shot-making ability and size at 6-foot-8.

• Performance: Abaev demonstrated his value as a contested shooter and a versatile player capable of operating as a second or third option. His shot-making ability makes him a valuable prospect.

• Recruitment: Florida State, Arizona State, Auburn, Oregon, and West Virginia have shown interest, with coaches closely watching his performance.

Treyvon Maddox: An Underrated Prospect

• Profile: Ranked No. 117, Maddox is a 6-foot-6 wing from Columbia (S.C.).

• Performance: Maddox impressed with his defensive talent and potential for growth. His length and frame make him a formidable defender, and he showed comfort operating in the high post.

• Recruitment: Florida State, Georgia Tech, and Virginia Tech are pushing the hardest for Maddox, recognizing his growth potential.

Additional Standout Performances

Ryder Frost: Shooting Sensation

• Profile: A 6-foot-6 wing from Phillips Exeter Academy (N.H.).

• Performance: Frost showcased his exceptional shooting ability, drawing large crowds and demonstrating his offensive output.

• Recruitment: Iowa, Michigan, Penn State, Notre Dame, Syracuse, and Wisconsin are all interested, with Frost planning fall official visits.

Jarvis Hayes Jr.: Rising Star

• Profile: A 6-foot-4 shooting guard and son of former NBA player Jarvis Hayes.

• Performance: Hayes impressed with his shooting stroke and athleticism, playing up an age level and standing out among older players.

• Recruitment: Already holds offers from Georgia State and Tulane, with potential high major interest down the line.

The UAA Finals highlighted numerous rising stars, with several Florida State targets making significant impressions. As the grassroots circuit wraps up, these prospects will continue to be closely watched as they progress in their recruitment journeys.

Read more here

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🔥 Seminole Showcase: FSU's Next Generation of Quarterbacks 🔥

Florida State is set to host its annual end-of-summer recruiting event, Seminole Showcase, on Saturday, July 27. This camp, similar to FSU's Elite Camp in June, invites select prospects from the 2025, 2026, and 2027 classes to compete on campus.

While not as intense as a traditional summer camp, Seminole Showcase focuses on skill development, coaching interactions, and bonding throughout the day.

A Focus on Quarterbacks

This year's event will spotlight the future of FSU's quarterback position. Expected attendees include:

2025 and 2026 Commits:

• Tramell Jones (2025): A long-time FSU commit, Jones solidified his commitment in June despite interest from Florida. Known for his advanced passing mechanics and strong arm, Jones is anticipated to be a high-floor option for the Seminoles.

• Brady Smigiel (2026): Recently committed in late June, Smigiel is a top-ranked quarterback in his class. At 6-foot-5 and 205 pounds, he's recognized for his strong arm, accuracy, and leadership qualities.

2027 Prospects:

• Trent Seaborn: Impressive at FSU's Elite Camp, Seaborn is noted for his precise ball placement and confidence under pressure.

• Mason Holtzclaw: With an impressive frame at 6-foot-3 and 185 pounds, Holtzclaw is adept at making accurate throws across the field.

• Elijah Haven: A dual-threat quarterback with a large frame (6-foot-4, 180 pounds), Haven is a long-striding runner with significant athletic upside.

Event Highlights

• Jones vs. Smigiel: Seeing these two top prospects side by side will provide valuable insights into their skillsets and how they complement each other as they arrive in Tallahassee a year apart.

• Upcoming Stars: The 2027 quarterbacks, already showing promise, will offer a glimpse into the future of FSU's quarterback room.

Read more here

🌟 ACC Media Days: Florida State Poised for Another Championship Run 🌟

As conversations swirl around the future of the ACC at Media Days, much of the focus remains on the 2024 season with newcomers California, SMU, and Stanford joining the league.

This expansion introduces a West Coast influence, challenging the traditional regionality of the conference and adding travel complexities for cross-country games.

Florida State's Dominance and Outlook

Florida State is in a strong position to repeat as ACC Champions in 2024. The Seminoles boast a 12-game winning streak against ACC opponents, dating back to the 2022 season.

With an influx of transfer portal talent, FSU is well-equipped to extend this streak. However, the journey won't be easy, facing tough matchups against other top contenders, including one of the newcomers viewed as a dark horse in the title race.

The 2024 ACC Championship Game will return to Bank of America Stadium on December 7 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

2024 ACC Championship Odds and Team Previews (according to FanDuel)

Stanford Cardinal (+50000)

• Projected Record: 3-9, 1-7 ACC

• Overview: Stanford faces a challenging season with extensive travel, including games at Clemson, NC State, and Syracuse.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons (+32000)

• Projected Record: 5-7, 3-6 ACC

• Overview: Wake Forest looks to rebound with new quarterback Hank Bachmeier leading the charge.

Virginia Cavaliers (+17000)

• Projected Record: 2-10, 0-8 ACC

• Overview: Despite returning 14 starters, Virginia struggles to find progress under head coach Tony Elliott.

Boston College Eagles (+17000)

• Projected Record: 3-9, 1-7 ACC

• Overview: Boston College rebuilds with new head coach Bill O'Brien aiming to stabilize the program.

Duke Blue Devils (+15000)

• Projected Record: 4-8, 1-7 ACC

• Overview: Manny Diaz steps in to lead Duke, hoping to maintain momentum with key additions like quarterback Maalik Murphy.

Pittsburgh Panthers (+12000)

• Projected Record: 5-7, 2-6 ACC

• Overview: Pittsburgh looks to improve after a disappointing 2023 season, returning nine starters on offense.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (+10000)

• Projected Record: 7-5, 5-3 ACC

• Overview: Georgia Tech aims to build on last season's momentum but faces a tough schedule.

California Golden Bears (+8500)

• Projected Record: 6-6, 3-5 ACC

• Overview: Cal faces significant travel challenges, relying on star running back Jaydn Ott for success.

Syracuse Orange (+5000)

• Projected Record: 8-4, 4-4 ACC

• Overview: New head coach Fran Brown hopes to capitalize on a favorable schedule and strong defensive lineup.

North Carolina Tar Heels (+3300)

• Projected Record: 9-3, 5-3 ACC

• Overview: Led by star running back Omarion Hampton, UNC faces a tough test at FSU in November.

SMU Mustangs (+1500)

• Projected Record: 9-3, 6-2 ACC

• Overview: SMU, coming off an 11-win season, looks to make an immediate impact with a high-octane offense.

Virginia Tech Hokies (+1000)

• Projected Record: 8-4, 5-3 ACC

• Overview: Virginia Tech returns the most starters in the power conference, aiming for a strong 2024 campaign.

Louisville Cardinals (+750)

• Projected Record: 7-5, 5-3 ACC

• Overview: Under Jeff Brohm, Louisville seeks another ACC Championship Game appearance with a solid defense.

NC State Wolfpack (+600)

• Projected Record: 10-2, 7-1 ACC

• Overview: NC State eyes its first ACC Championship Game appearance with a potent offense and solid defense.

Miami Hurricanes (+440)

• Projected Record: 11-1, 7-1 ACC

• Overview: Miami bolsters its roster with top transfers, aiming for a critical bounce-back season under Mario Cristobal.

Clemson Tigers (+390)

• Projected Record: 10-2, 7-1 ACC

• Overview: Clemson relies on development and a returning five-star quarterback Cade Klubnik to reclaim the ACC title.

Florida State Seminoles (+270)

• Projected Record: 11-1, 8-0 ACC

• Overview: FSU enters the season as favorites to win back-to-back ACC Championships, powered by transfer talent and a strong roster led by quarterback DJ Uiagalelei.

Read more here

And that’s a wrap!

That's all for today’s edition of The Chief Brief!

Stay tuned for more updates on FSU's recruiting battles, player performances, and upcoming events.

Go Seminoles!