FSU Football: Looking at how Tribe20 played against Jacksonville State

After FSU Football beat JSU last Saturday, Chop Chat’s Sam Tschida takes a look at how the newcomers played against the Gamecocks.

For the first time 322 days, the Noles are in the win column. Despite a sluggish start, FSU beat Jacksonville State in Doak after an early quarterback change and rally by the defense.

Much of the points scored on offense were made by the newcomers of Tribe20, who continue to be a massive bright spot for the program.

Offense

QB Tate Rodemaker (FR)

To the cheers of many, Rodemaker got the start against Jacksonville State on Saturday instead of long-time starter James Blackman.

After a subpar but encouraging performance against Miami’s backups and reports of a great week of practice from the Valdosta native, there was hope Rodemaker could show enough to take over full-time duties.

Instead, the true freshman looked a bit overmatched in his first start. He took two sacks, both of which were avoidable if he had stepped up in the pocket, and tossed a pick-six on the first drive of the game.

He was not helped by the offensive line in the running game at first, as they got almost zero-push, a ‘la 2018 Samford. He was also the victim of a few drops, including one by fellow freshman Kentron Portier.

Rodemaker was by no means awful; he played like most true freshman isn’t a five-star recruit would play. He did have a few good throws, like this one to Cam McDonald on the sideline.

This throw could’ve been picked off. Maybe it should’ve. But, the throw is accurate, in a spot where only his guy can catch it. There are things to build on with Rodemaker, he’s not ready yet.

TE Preston Daniel (FR)

Daniel once again saw a lot of snaps on offense as a tight end/fullback hybrid, primarily serving in a blocking role. Daniel got physically beat a few times against the Gamecocks, but generally looked like he was blocking the correct man.

TE Wyatt Rector (RS Soph)

Rector did not receive much attention on offense, getting in mainly at the end of the game. He was featured primarily on special teams and as a run blocker later in the game for the offense.

WR Kentron Portier (FR)

The true freshman received playing time for the second straight week and recorded no stats for the Noles. He had an opportunity for a big play late in the 1st quarter on a slant route but dropped the ball.

WR Darion Williamson (FR)

Williamson saw a bit of playing time towards the end of the game but recorded no stats.