Former FSU, Georgia Coach Thinks Seminoles' CFP Snub Cause for Player Opt-Outs
Florida State is set to play the Georgia Bulldogs on December 30 in the 90th rendition of the Orange Bowl. It will be the first New Year's Six Bowl game the 'Noles have been to since 2014, but the celebrations around Tallahassee have been muddled. FSU was historically snubbed from the 2023 College Football Playoff despite going a perfect 13-0 and winning the ACC in favor of 12-1 Alabama and Texas, causing sports figures and politicians across the country to question the credibility of the committee and the sport itself.
Since the snub, star Florida State players like defensive end Jared Verse, running back Trey Benson, tight end Jaheim Bell, defensive tackle Fabien Lovett, and wide receivers Johnny Wilson and Keon Coleman have opted out of the Orange Bowl to pursue careers in the NFL.
Former Georgia head coach Mark Richt threw his hat in the ring on Wednesday on the ACC Network to weigh in on the situation in Tallahassee. He believes many players departing the roster would've stayed for a chance at a National Title.
"I understand why those Florida State kids decided not to play for a lot of reasons," Richt said. "If they’re playing for the National Championship, I don’t think any of them leave."
It is a bad look for college football, a game played on the field and between the white lines. The reasoning behind leaving the Seminoles out seemed veiled. The fact that a committee decided to leave an undefeated Power 5 champion out didn't sit well as Richt, like many others, was baffled.
"How is the league supposed to change the narrative? How is the team supposed to change the narrative if they can’t even get in the game, being undefeated as a Power-5 school? I think it was ridiculous."
While many talented players are still up for the challenge on December 30, controversy and widespread criticism continue to surround the situation.
READ MORE: Ex-Florida State Five-Star Cornerback Staying In Tallahassee To Continue College Career
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