Mike Norvell Discusses Tate Rodemaker's Decision To Transfer From Florida State

The final couple of games on Florida State's schedule have been a whirlwind. From losing Jordan Travis in the home finale, to Brock Glenn taking over for Tate Rodemaker in the ACC Championship, and now the upcoming Orange Bowl where the roster will look like a shell of itself due to NFL declarations and opt-outs.

The Seminoles didn't get a break on Christmas Day as the team flew to South Florida to begin their final game week of the 2023 season. One player was noticeably absent from the trip as Tate Rodemaker departed from Florida State to enter the transfer portal and won't play against the Bulldogs.

Upon arriving in Fort Lauderdale, head coach Mike Norvell discussed Rodemaker's decision while highlighting true freshman Brock Glenn, who will make his second career start on Saturday.

“Life is full of choices and the opportunity that we have now, Brock [Glenn] who started the [ACC] championship game for us is going to be the starter here for the Orange Bowl," Norvell said on Monday night. "Definitely excited to see him take the step from his first start to his second start."

The Seminoles have had multiple starters on both sides of the ball decide not to suit up for the contest. Norvell says that hasn't deterred the remaining members of the team as Florida State pushes to close its season with an undefeated record for the first time in a decade.

“Well I mean the guys are excited about the opportunity to compete and that's what we what we have, and doing it against a great opponent, one that has been the benchmark of the best of college football the last three years and ultimately that's what we have in front of us," Norvell said. "We've had really good bowl practices leading up and I'm excited to see the guys prepare. There’s an opportunity there for Saturday to go and push to be our best."

In total, FSU has had seven players declare for the NFL Draft and 14 enter the transfer portal. The names out of the lineup against the Bulldogs include Rodemaker, Trey Benson, Rodney Hill, Keon Coleman, Johnny Wilson, Jaheim Bell, Markeston Douglas, Bless Harris, Jared Verse, Fabien Lovett, DJ Lundy, and Akeem Dent.

There's no doubt that the Seminoles are going through a significant roster transformation but they've still got to face off against the Bulldogs.

“It’s about the players that are here and the work that they put in. I’m grateful for every player that we have," Norvell said. "Life is full of choices and these guys, like I said the last month has been really challenging, you know coming off the championship game, a lot of emotion, guys having to make tough and challenging decisions, but the guys that are here I know were excited about it and looking forward to the week of preparation and the competition that’s ahead.”

Florida State and Georgia will conclude their seasons in the Orange Bowl on Saturday, December 30. The game is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. and will be televised on ESPN.