Yesterday’s Poll Results

Today’s Poll

🏹 Welcome to The Chief Brief! 🏹

Happy gameday, Seminole!

It’s all wins across the board in this one - and who knows maybe there’s some magic at Doak today to keep that trend going:

🏐 Volleyball Wraps Regular Season Strong 🏐
FSU Volleyball closed out with a thrilling four-set victory over Wake Forest. Can they carry this momentum into the NCAA Tournament?

🏀 Hoops Shine in Paradise Jam 🏀
Back-to-back wins for Women’s Basketball with Ta’Niya Latson making history and the team dominating the court. Will they sweep the tournament against Gonzaga?

🏈 Deuce Spann Enters Transfer Portal 🏈
After three seasons with the Seminoles, Spann is looking for a fresh start. His special teams legacy, however, won’t be forgotten.

🏈 Recruiting Blitz Before Signing Day 🏈
A loaded visitor list arrives for FSU’s rivalry game against Florida. Will the Seminoles turn the tide in the 2025 recruiting cycle?

🏈 FSU vs. Florida: Rivalry Finale Preview 🏈
The Seminoles face the Gators in a primetime clash at Doak Campbell Stadium. Can FSU end the season with an upset, or will Florida’s momentum prove too much?

🏐 FSU Volleyball Ends Regular Season with Victory Over Wake Forest 🏐

The No. 21 Florida State volleyball team (21-9, 13-7) wrapped up its regular season in style with a four-set win (25-22, 25-20, 23-25, 25-18) over Wake Forest (13-18, 5-15) on Friday afternoon in Winston Salem.

🌟 Match Highlights:

• Set One: A back-and-forth battle saw FSU close out the set with a 5-2 run to win 25-22.

• Set Two: The Seminoles regrouped after trailing 17-15, storming back with an 8-1 run to claim the set 25-20.

• Set Three: Despite tying the set at 20, a controversial rotation call helped Wake Forest secure a 25-23 win.

• Set Four: FSU dominated from start to finish, sealing the match with a 25-18 victory.

🌟 Standout Performances:

• Khori Louis: Led the Noles with 15 kills on 23 attempts, continuing her stellar form.

• Taylor Head: Recorded 14 kills, playing a crucial offensive role.

• Audrey Koenig and Kyleene Filimaua: Added 13 and 12 kills, showcasing the team’s offensive depth.

🏐 Postseason Outlook:
Florida State will learn its postseason fate during the NCAA Women’s Volleyball Selection Show on Sunday at 6 PM on ESPN. Currently ranked 26th in RPI, the Seminoles are projected as a sixth seed in the 64-team tournament. This would mark FSU’s 15th NCAA Tournament appearance in the last 16 seasons.

🔜 What’s Next:
With an 18-match winning streak against Wake Forest dating back to 2011 and a strong finish to the regular season, the Noles are poised for another deep postseason run. Stay tuned for the tournament announcement!

Read more here

🏀 FSU Women’s Basketball Shines in Back-to-Back Paradise Jam Wins 🏀

The Florida State women’s basketball team (7-1) showcased its dominance in the first two games of the Paradise Jam, defeating Texas Tech 70-62 on Thursday and following up with a commanding 97-66 victory over Missouri State on Friday.

🌟 Game 1: Resilient Victory Over Texas Tech

• Defense on Display: FSU forced 25 turnovers and tallied 15 steals, converting those into 24 fast-break points.

• Ta’Niya Latson’s Milestone: Latson dropped 30 points, surpassing 1,500 career points to become the 10th player in program history to achieve the milestone. She added 11 rebounds, 5 steals, and her second double-double of the season.

• O’Mariah Gordon’s Contributions: Gordon recorded 20 points and reached the 1,000-career-point mark, adding two steals.

• Clutch Moments: Makayla Timpson’s defensive stops in the fourth quarter and Sydney Bowles’ critical free throws helped seal the win.

🔜 Final Score: FSU 70, Texas Tech 62

🌟 Game 2: Offensive Explosion Against Missouri State

• Three-Point Barrage: The Seminoles went 14-of-30 from beyond the arc, with Mariana Valenzuela and Sydney Bowles each hitting four threes.

• Bench Boost: FSU’s bench scored 41 points, led by Bowles (16 points) and Valenzuela (14 points).

• Timpson’s Dominance: Timpson secured her fourth double-double of the season with 18 points, 12 rebounds, and four steals. She is now six double-doubles shy of tying the school record.

• Latson Leads Again: Latson added 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, continuing her stellar tournament performance.

• Closing Strong: The Noles ended the game with a 15-1 run, outscoring Missouri State 59-35 in the second half.

🔜 Final Score: FSU 97, Missouri State 66

🚨 What’s Next:
The Seminoles wrap up the Paradise Jam on Saturday at 8 PM against Gonzaga, aiming for a tournament sweep and to build on their impressive start to the season.

Read more here and here

🏈 FSU Wide Receiver Deuce Spann Enters Transfer Portal 🏈

Florida State wide receiver Deuce Spann has officially entered the transfer portal, marking the end of his three-season tenure with the Seminoles after transferring from Illinois.

🌟 Player Profile:

• Height/Weight: 6’4”, 208 pounds

• Position Transition: Began his college career at Illinois as a quarterback before converting to wide receiver.

• FSU Stats: Played 27 games over three seasons but recorded just 10 receptions for 92 yards and one touchdown during his time in Tallahassee.

🔑 Career Highlights:

• Kickoff Return Magic: Spann's standout moment at FSU was a critical kickoff return touchdown against Duke in 2023, helping secure a key victory for the Seminoles.

• Special Teams Impact: In two seasons as a kick returner, Spann averaged an impressive 26.77 yards per return on 13 attempts, totaling 348 yards.

🚨 What’s Next:
Spann, a redshirt senior, will seek a fresh start elsewhere to maximize his remaining eligibility. While his contributions on offense were limited, his special teams value could make him a significant asset for another program.

Read more here

🏈 FSU Extends Offer to Mississippi State Safety Commit Lo'Kavion Jackson 🏈

Florida State continues its late push in the 2025 recruiting cycle, extending an offer on Friday to Mississippi State three-star safety commit Lo'Kavion Jackson. The Lynn Haven (Fla.) standout could become a key addition to FSU’s defensive backfield.

🌟 Player Profile:

• Height/Weight: 6’2”, 195 pounds

• High School: A. Crawford Mosley High School (Lynn Haven, Fla.)

• Ranking: No. 92 safety nationally (247Sports)

• Athletic Prowess: Posted impressive track results as a junior, including an 11.27 in the 100m dash and a 23.97 in the 200m dash.

🔑 Recruitment Highlights:

• FSU’s Pitch: Defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr. extended the offer, highlighting Jackson’s fit in the Seminoles’ secondary. Jackson said, “It means everything. I worked for this for months.”

• Dream School Appeal: Jackson described FSU as a “dream school” in his announcement.

• Recruiting Visits: He has visited FSU twice this year and is expected to return this weekend for an unofficial visit.

🚨 The Competition:

• Mississippi State Commitment: Jackson has been pledged to the Bulldogs but remains open to building relationships with FSU's coaching staff.

• Louisville’s Push: The Cardinals hosted Jackson for an official visit last weekend and are actively in the mix.

Read more here

🏈 FSU Coaching Carousel and Roster Updates Post-Thanksgiving 🏈

As the holiday weekend continues, Florida State is navigating critical decisions on its coaching staff and roster as the offseason looms. Here’s the latest tea from the Seminole grapevine:

🚨 Coaching Updates

• Defensive Coordinator Search:

  • Chris Hampton (Oregon co-DC): Confirmed as a legitimate candidate for FSU’s DC job. There’s mutual interest, though it’s unclear where he ranks on Mike Norvell’s wishlist.

  • Tyler Santucci (Georgia Tech DC): Unlikely to leave GT as he’s reportedly content in his current role.

  • Timeline: A hire could be announced early next week, likely involving someone from a non-playoff team, a position coach, or even an NFL staffer.

• Offensive Coordinator Buzz:

  • Brennan Marion (UNLV OC): FSU remains confident he’ll join unless he lands a head coaching role. Marion has proven his loyalty in past opportunities, but rumors persist about his ties to the Wisconsin OC and Tulsa HC jobs.

  • Staff Adjustments: Expect potential coaching shifts, like David Johnson moving from RB to WR coach. Ron Dugans reportedly declined an offer to stay as an analyst at reduced pay.

🏈 Roster and Transfer News

• Quarterback Room:

  • Brock Glenn: Sources suggest Glenn is likely to stay and compete with Luke Kromenhoek for the starting job unless FSU brings in a high-profile QB transfer. His return would bolster depth and competition in the quarterback room.

• Defensive Line Departures:

  • Marvin Jones Jr.: Currently the only starting DL expected to return.

  • Joshua Farmer & Darrell Jackson: Both players are reportedly leaning toward the NFL, with mutual interest in Senior Bowl participation.

  • Patrick Payton: Likely to explore the transfer portal after a season that impacted his draft stock.

Read more here

🏈 Florida State Hosts Star-Studded Visitor List for Rivalry Showdown 🏈

With the Early Signing Period just days away, Florida State’s final regular-season game against the Florida Gators is shaping up to be a pivotal weekend for the program. The Seminoles are hosting a blockbuster lineup of recruits, marking their last opportunity to impress before Signing Day.

🌟 Headliners to Watch

• 5-star DL Justus Terry:
  The Georgia lean makes a crucial visit to Tallahassee this weekend. FSU’s chances are slim, but his presence on campus indicates serious interest.

• 4-star WR Tae'shaun Gelsey (Florida commit):
  One of FSU’s best flip opportunities. Gelsey appreciates FSU’s vision of him as a true wideout compared to Florida’s flex tight-end pitch.

• 5-star OL Solomon Thomas (FSU commit):
  The top-ranked commitment in FSU’s 2025 class, Thomas remains committed but is closely monitoring FSU’s offensive line coaching hire.

• 4-star RB Ousmane Kromah (Georgia commit):
  A priority target after FSU lost RB Byron Louis to a flip earlier this week. The Seminoles will use this visit to make a final push.

• 4-star DL Myron Charles (Texas commit):
  Once an FSU pledge, Charles’ recruitment is heating up as FSU and Florida work to flip him from the Longhorns.

🔑 Late-Breaking Developments

• 4-star Edge LaJesse Harrold:
  Fresh off his LSU decommitment, Harrold is trending toward FSU, with industry experts predicting he’ll choose the Seminoles after this weekend’s visit.

• 4-star Edge Tylon Lee (Ole Miss commit):
  Milton’s standout edge rusher takes an official visit to Tallahassee as FSU looks to solidify its defensive line class.

• 4-star LB Tavion Wallace (Arkansas commit):
  A second visit to FSU in as many weeks signals momentum in flipping the former Seminoles lean.

• 4-star LB Kellen Wiley:
  A late riser in the recruiting scene, Wiley’s visit could position FSU as a serious contender in his recruitment.

📊 What’s at Stake?

The Seminoles currently hold the No. 46-ranked 2025 recruiting class, but this weekend’s action has the potential to vault them into stronger contention. Hosting such a deep and talented group of visitors, including several five-star and four-star prospects, makes this a defining moment for FSU’s recruiting strategy.

Read more here and here

🏈 Florida State vs. Florida: Rivalry Showdown and Season Finale Preview 🏈

The Florida State Seminoles (2-9) close out a challenging 2024 season by hosting the Florida Gators (6-5) under the lights at Doak Campbell Stadium. With a season of struggles behind them, the Seminoles aim to derail Florida’s momentum as the Gators push for a strong finish to their regular season.

📅 Game Details:

• Date: Saturday, November 30

• Time: 7:00 PM ET

• Location: Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL

• Broadcast: ESPN2

• Spread: Florida -16.5

🌟 Key Matchups to Watch

1. Florida Passing vs. FSU Pass Defense

• Gators’ Strengths:
  Freshman quarterback DJ Lagway has ignited the Gators’ offense, averaging 8.9 yards per attempt and excelling with a 97.3 passing grade on deep throws. Key weapons include Elijhah Badger (778 yards, 4 TDs) and Chimere Dike (624 yards, 2 TDs), complemented by versatile tight ends Hayden Hansen and Arlis Boardingham.

• Seminoles’ Defense:
  FSU’s secondary has been hampered by injuries, forcing reliance on players like Quindarrius Jones and Edwin Joseph. While Azareye’h Thomas provides stability, the unit has struggled to create turnovers, recording just three interceptions all season.

EDGE: Florida

2. Florida Rushing vs. FSU Run Defense

• Gators’ Ground Game:
  Led by Jadan Baugh (522 yards, 7 TDs) and Montrell Johnson Jr. (494 yards, 5 TDs), Florida’s running attack is efficient and balanced. With one of the nation’s top run-blocking lines, the Gators can wear down defenses and dominate time of possession.

• Seminoles’ Challenges:
  FSU ranks 105th nationally in rushing defense, allowing 180.1 yards per game. Linebackers Blake Nichelson and Cam Riley must step up to contain the Gators’ rushing duo, but the Seminoles have struggled to hold up against strong ground attacks.

EDGE: Florida

3. FSU Passing vs. Florida Pass Defense

• Seminoles’ Outlook:
  Freshman quarterback Luke Kromenhoek showed promise last week, throwing three touchdowns in his debut. Key targets like Ja’Khi Douglas and Hykeem Williams need to capitalize on mismatches against an injury-depleted Florida secondary.

• Gators’ Weaknesses:
  Florida’s secondary, missing multiple starters, has allowed 244.7 passing yards per game. The pass rush, led by Tyreak Sapp (6 sacks), could disrupt FSU’s rhythm, especially with the Seminoles’ inconsistent offensive line play.

EDGE: Even

4. FSU Rushing vs. Florida Rush Defense

• Seminoles’ Ground Game:
  Lawrance Toafili leads a limited rushing attack averaging just 89.1 yards per game. While Kam Davis and Roydell Williams add depth, the offensive line struggles to open running lanes consistently.

• Gators’ Defense:
  Anchored by Tyreak Sapp and Caleb Banks, Florida’s front seven has been effective at limiting big runs. However, injuries at linebacker could create opportunities for the Seminoles to find success on the ground.

EDGE: Florida

5. Special Teams Battle

• FSU’s Standouts:
  Alex Mastromanno (49.1 yards per punt) and Ryan Fitzgerald (perfect on FGs, 12-for-12) give the Seminoles a significant edge. The unit has also blocked five kicks this season, tied for third nationally.

• Gators’ Strengths:
  Trey Smack (13-for-16 FGs) and punter Jeremy Crawshaw (46.3 yards per punt) provide consistency, while Chimere Dike and Jadan Baugh add explosiveness in the return game.

EDGE: Florida State

📝 Predictions

FSU Keys to Victory

1. Generate turnovers to disrupt DJ Lagway’s rhythm.

2. Capitalize on Florida’s secondary injuries with explosive plays.

3. Control field position through elite special teams play.

Florida Keys to Victory

1. Dominate the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.

2. Leverage DJ Lagway’s big-play ability and mobility.

3. Exploit FSU’s defensive struggles against the run.

Predicted Scores

• Gene Williams: UF 37, FSU 10

• Ira Schoffel: UF 28, FSU 24

• Corey Clark: UF 30, FSU 18

• Jeff Cameron: UF 24, FSU 21

• Tom Lang: UF 24, FSU 20

• Aslan Hajivandi: UF 31, FSU 14

• Matt LaSerre: UF 35, FSU 14

• Clay Fink: UF 31, FSU 13

• Brett Nevitt: UF 30, FSU 10

• Dane Draper: UF 27, FSU 11

• Trey Rowland: UF 42, FSU 6

• Coach Adam Brown: UF 34, FSU 13

• Brendan Sonnone: UF 31, FSU 10

• Kevin Little: UF 38, FSU 6

• Chris Nee: UF 31, FSU 17

• Zach Blostein: UF 31, FSU 14

🔑 What’s at Stake

• Florida: A win solidifies a 7-5 regular season and builds momentum heading into bowl season.

• Florida State: Beyond rivalry pride, this game offers a chance to leave a positive impression on recruits attending the game.

📊 Final Analysis

Florida’s offensive firepower, combined with FSU’s struggles at the line of scrimmage, makes the Gators heavy favorites. However, FSU’s elite special teams and home-field advantage could keep the game competitive, especially in the first half.

• Final Prediction: Florida 31, Florida State 13

• X-Factor: DJ Lagway’s dual-threat ability and Florida’s dominance in the trenches.

The rivalry atmosphere and potential for upset drama add intrigue, but the Gators’ balanced attack and recent momentum likely carry the day.

Read more here and here and here and here

And that’s a wrap!

With the season finale upon us, it’s a weekend of rivalries, recruiting drama, and redemption stories. Whether it’s on the court, field, or in the recruiting war room, there’s no shortage of action for Seminole Nation.

Enjoy the game, keep the faith, and as always—Go Noles! 🎯