Florida State’s Meltdown Highlights Week 3 Winners and Losers in Football

Florida State University is currently facing one of the most disappointing seasons in recent Bowl Subdivision history. The Seminoles, once ranked No. 10 in the US LBM Coaches Poll, have plummeted to a 0-3 record following a 20-12 loss at home to No. 25 Memphis. This marks a significant fall from grace, especially given the high expectations following their ACC championship and unbeaten regular season last year. Florida State now joins the ranks of teams in the past 35 years that started the season in the top 10 and lost their first three games, a select group that includes only the 2020 Penn State team.

The Memphis Tigers, on the other hand, are currently the frontrunners in the Group of Five, positioning themselves as a strong candidate for a 12-team College Football Playoff spot. In contrast, the Seminoles find themselves on the outside looking in, with hopes of playoff contention seemingly dashed, as they will need to watch from the sidelines like the rest of the country.

In the game against Memphis, Florida State’s offensive performance was lackluster, echoing the disappointment from their previous week’s defeat against Boston College. The Seminoles managed to convert only two of their 12 third-down attempts and accumulated a mere 37 yards on 24 carries when factoring in sacks. This resulted in an average of just 1.5 yards per carry. To make matters worse, the team turned the ball over three times and did not score a touchdown until the third quarter.

Florida State’s struggles this year can largely be attributed to issues related to the transfer portal. Coach Mike Norvell had previously gained success in recruiting transfers, including standout defensive end Jared Verse. However, this year’s influx of transfers has not filled essential positions or helped maintain the program’s trajectory. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei personifies these struggles; after a promising season at Oregon State, he has reverted to his inconsistent Clemson form, completing only 16 of 30 passes for 201 yards and throwing an interception against Memphis. Uiagalelei’s performance this season has resulted in more picks—two—than touchdowns—one—across three games.

Conversely, Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan demonstrated effective leadership, completing 65.7% of his passes for 272 yards and two touchdowns. In college football today, a team’s fortunes often hinge on the quarterback’s performance, and while Henigan has the Tigers targeting the playoffs, Uiagalelei’s struggles have relegated Florida State to the bottom of the college football landscape.

The 2024 season has revealed both glaring winners and losers in college football following Week 3. Memphis solidified its place as a legitimate Group of Five powerhouse, building on its previous season’s success with strong performances that could very well lead to a playoff opportunity. Meanwhile, Alabama showcased its offensive prowess in a dominant 42-10 victory over Wisconsin, with quarterback Jalen Milroe leading the charge. The Crimson Tide’s systematic offense and stingy defense have made them a team to watch as the season progresses.

Missouri, too, had a notable victory against Boston College, which could prove beneficial during playoff considerations. The Tigers exhibited resilience and effective gameplay that could enhance their standing in an increasingly competitive landscape.

In stark contrast, Florida’s situation has deteriorated, with the Gators set to embark on yet another coaching search following their 33-20 loss to Texas A&M. Given their poor start to the season, expectations are low and hope appears to be fading fast among fans and stakeholders alike.

Michigan and Washington also faced challenges. The Wolverines managed a win but had significant struggles on offense that raise concerns about their playoff aspirations. The Huskies, while trying to establish themselves after a national title game appearance, suffered a tough loss, leaving them in a rebuilding phase with new leadership and expectations.

As the season continues, the drama surrounding teams like Florida State, Florida, and Michigan suggests a tumultuous time for various programs attempting to regain their footing. Meanwhile, Memphis, Alabama, and Missouri aim to capitalize on opportunities and strengthen their chances for playoff positions as they forge ahead into the heart of the football season.

Source: USA TODAY