Florida State Moves To Largest Underdog of Bowl Season

The Seminoles are projected to come up short by nearly three touchdowns in the Orange Bowl.

The No. 5 Florida State Seminoles (13-0, 8-0 ACC) are set to take on the No. 6 Georgia Bulldogs (12-1, 8-0 SEC) in the Orange Bowl on December 30. There has been a wave of controversy surrounding the College Football Playoff Committee's historic snub of FSU.

FSU Quarterback Brock Glenn Reacts To Tate Rodemaker's Decision, Taking Over As Starter

Vegas betting lines sway as the bets come in and kickoff time approaches and the line for FSU vs. UGA is a staggering 19 points, marking the highest expected point deficit left in bowl season. According to DraftKings, the next highest margin is 16 points in favor of Oregon over Liberty.

#FSU is now considered as a 19-point underdog to Georgia in the Orange Bowl after more opt-outs over the last 24 hours, according to BetOnline.

That's the largest spread of any bowl game this postseason. #Noles

— Dustin Lewis (@DustinLewisNG) December 27, 2023

The reason for such a high probability of a Bulldog victory comes from roster attrition, with players like linebacker DJ Lundy, quarterback Tate Rodemaker, and running back Rodney Hill entering the transfer portal. Star talent like wide receiver Keon Coleman, defensive end Jared Verse, wide receiver Johnny Wilson, and running back Trey Benson, among others, are headed to the 2024 NFL Draft and will not be available for the game.

Injuries have also plagued the roster, causing oddsmakers to leave such a wide margin for the game. Heisman Trophy Finalist Jordan Travis and running back Lawrance Toafili suffered season-ending injuries and will not participate. The departures, injuries, and players opting out numbers well into the double digits on the three-deep rotation.

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

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