Football

Florida State football practice back open to the media on Tuesday after a one-day absence because of Tropical Storm Fred. The Seminoles continued their prep for the season opener against No. 9 Notre Dame which is just 18 days away.

Coach Mike Norvell called this a critical week for the program after last weekend’s scrimmage didn’t have the execution he was hoping for.

From what the media could see on Tuesday, it was the defense that appears to be gelling, especially in the secondary. Defensive back Travis Jay had two picks on the day while his teammate Jarvis Brownlee Jr. had one.

Defensive backs coach Marcus Woodson says he likes where the group is at right now as they work to build depth with their younger players, but says they do have room to improve.

On offense, it was the skill guys who popped with some nice catches and runs for touchdowns. We’ve got our recap plus the full interviews with coach Woodson, wide receiver Malik McClain, and defensive backs Hunter Washington and Shyheim Brown posted right now.

And don’t forget you can watch the highlights from practice yourself on our website as well.

No throws from quarterbacks Jordan Travis and McKenzie Milton in those highlights. The two remain in a battle to start under center in the opener. The decision will likely also come with differing styles for the offense.

Milton is working his way back from a severe leg injury in 2018 so he figures to not be as mobile. Travis is among the best running quarterbacks in the country on designed plays.

Norvell says both guys performed well in last weekend’s scrimmage and we’ll likely have to wait until September to see who comes out on top.

The month could also be payday for any members of the Florida State football team who wants some extra cash in their pocket. A report from Ross Dellenger of Sports Illustrated says the company Yummy Crypto is offering anyone on the roster a one-time $500 NIL deal.

The offer is only good for September but could be extended. So far, SI reports 60 players including one of the potential starting quarterbacks has taken the deal.

Recruiting

That deal could also be a potential recruiting tool to get talent to Tallahassee, an area they’ve proven to be pretty good at this cycle. Two members of the Florida State staff find themselves in the top 20 recruiters in the country.

Director of Strength and Conditioning Josh Storms is not a recruiter but remains one of the most important members of the staff by ensuring the team is in shape for the year. So what keeps him motivated? Ron Simmons.

Basketball

With the focus on the football team as we head into the new season, Leonard Hamilton’s crew is taking shape for their upcoming year. After a few seasons of climbing to the top of the ACC, Florida State is earning their self-made moniker of the New Bloods.

With Coach K and Roy Williams both out of coaching, 2022 could be a chance for them to cement their spot atop the conference. Three Man Weave previewed what to expect from the Seminoles this year.

The program is also succeeding in sending guys to the NBA. Scottie Barnes was the big fish this year as the newest top-five pick from the program.

But don’t forget about RaiQuan Gray. Brooklyn took him with one of the last picks in this year’s draft but he’s already impressing his coaches with his thought process on the court.