3 things learned after FSU turns to backup QB Tate Rodemaker

TALLAHASSEE — Florida State and North Alabama players gathered at midfield, some taking a knee. They all wanted to be around Jordan Travis and show their support.

Travis suffered what appeared to be a major leg injury, which was placed in an air cast and he was carted off the field. The star quarterback, who is the program’s all-time leader in offensive yards, wore an FSU hat as he recorded a short Instagram video.

“Just wanted to let you know I’m doing good, feeling good. Got a smile on my face,” Travis said. “Just going to follow God’s plan. God has a journey for me, and I’m going to trust him every step of the way. I appreciate y’all for all the messages. Go ’Noles.”

CFP No. 4 Florida State (11-0) won for the 17th straight game, but Travis’ injury is a gut punch. Simply put: Travis is the heart and soul of FSU.

Here are three we learned and big-picture topics as FSU turns its focus to Florida (5-6) on Saturday in Gainesville:

Tate Rodemaker looked composed but bigger moments ahead

Rodemaker knew he would play against an FCS opponent. But the way he was called into action, one charged with emotion and with the Seminoles trailing 13-0 late in the first quarter, is tough for any quarterback. But the fourth-year junior guided FSU on 60 yards in 10 plays on his first drive, resulting in a field goal.

Following a punt, he led FSU to three consecutive touchdowns, benefitting from a pair of short fields as the defense did its job to give the offense the ball on UNA’s 7-yard line and FSU’s 48. In two-plus quarters of work, Rodemaker completed 13 of 23 passes for 217 yards and a pair of TDs (Caziah Holmes for 26 yards and Keon Coleman for 24) in a 58-13 win.

“A few weeks ago in my office we had a one-on-one just talking about being prepared in case the moment ever calls for you,” FSU coach Mike Norvell said. “Tate does a great job in his preparation.”

Four years on the practice field helped Rodemaker. And now this: A difficult road environment at night in The Swamp and an ACC championship game against Louisville on Dec. 2.

FSU’s defense responded but must level up

The Seminoles on offense need to play well around Rodemaker (improved blocking up front and fewer drops). The defense also was in a good position to deliver some short fields after UNA took the early lead. The Lions accumulated 172 yards on their first three drives but finished the game with 226.

Jarrian Jones had a pair of turnovers and FSU racked up 11 tackles for loss. The pass rush will be pivotal, as will the need to force more takeaways.

All eyes will be on Rodemaker and the offense, but the defense can take control and help the Seminoles remain unbeaten.

Now we wait on CFP standings

There was already concern about FSU’s resume, which includes wins over No. 15 LSU, Clemson, Miami and Duke. CFP No. 5 Washington has wins over No. 6 Oregon, No. 22 Utah and No. 11 Oregon State. The Huskies face Washington State next and a potential rematch with the Ducks on Dec. 1.

It’s plausible Washington jumps FSU on Tuesday night. But with a Michigan-Ohio State matchup ahead, the Seminoles need to focus on winning games and let the optics question be diminished by on-field results.