Today’s Noles News begins on a somber note as former Florida State quarterback Marcus Outzen passed away.
Known as “Rooster” due to his red hair, Outzen took over as starter after Chris Weinke suffered a season-ending injury during the 1998 season. Just a week after his first start, a win against Wake Forest, Outzen led the Seminoles to victory against Florida. Despite the Gators’ formidable defense, Outzen managed the game skillfully, completing 13 of 22 passes for 167 yards and a touchdown, including a memorable connection with Peter Warrick. This victory remains one of the highlights in the FSU-UF rivalry.
During his time at Florida State, Outzen completed 72 of 121 passes for 1,074 yards and five touchdowns, with six interceptions.
Former FSU teammate Bobby Rhodes reflected on Outzen’s character, describing him as a good friend both on and off the field. Brad Dempton, Outzen’s college roommate, emphasized his integrity and love for his family.
Outzen, an avid golfer, often played with friends such as Dempton and former FSU and Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Barry Smith. Smith expressed his devastation for Outzen’s wife and children, highlighting Outzen’s passion for Florida State.
Recruiting
For the latest updates on Florida State recruiting, check out our official recruiting thread.
Showing @Coach_Norvell some love. Sending these to his office. There is a piece from everywhere he’s played and coach plus Texas where he was born. #keepclimbing #GoNoles pic.twitter.com/pN7IZarrBi
— Coach Levi (@Levi545454) April 30, 2024
New looks for all 10 of our 2024 #NFLDraft picks#NoleFamily | #NFLNoles pic.twitter.com/9IRMSPYag8
— FSU Football (@FSUFootball) May 1, 2024
"That's my right-hand man, so it's pretty cool."
Braden Fiske and Jared Verse are teammates once again wreaking havoc on offensive lines 😤@RamsNFL | @FSUFootball pic.twitter.com/xHt2pigYb1
— ACC Network (@accnetwork) May 1, 2024
Aye check it I don’t really care how the #georgia fans feeling… we all know the truth 😂 if y’all win that game yall definitely would have seen us in the the championship simple as that #gonoles
— 𝓚𝓔𝓞𝓝 𝓒𝓞𝓛𝓔𝓜𝓐𝓝 (@keoncoleman6) May 2, 2024
Oh how time flies 🕰️✈️@ii_jermaine reflects on his first moments with the @nyjets pic.twitter.com/OlWqTAtdV1
— NFL Total Access (@NFLTotalAccess) May 1, 2024
Bowl Season director Nick Carparelli told @YahooSports in Phoenix that he expects NIL to soon come “in-house” and for athletes to sign binding compensation contracts with schools that will require them to play in bowls and CFP games, eliminating or greatly reducing opt-outs.
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) May 1, 2024
Two @RamsNFL rookies and former @FSUFootball teammates join Path to the Draft to discuss the excitement of getting to play together once again 🔊@JaredVerse1 | @bradenfiske55 pic.twitter.com/gd9AYkoR96
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) May 1, 2024
I’m gonna become proof of what happens when you don’t give up
— Jared Verse (@JaredVerse1) May 1, 2024
Football
The last time NC State came to Howser:
1⃣7⃣ innings
5⃣ hours, 4⃣5⃣ minutes
1⃣ memorable walk-off HR from a freshman to clinch the series 👇@Ferrer1227 | #noles🎟 https://t.co/cbapr7Qllv pic.twitter.com/lnypvgQm8t
— FSU Baseball (@FSUBaseball) May 1, 2024
Florida’s attorney general, Ashley Moody, has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA over penalties imposed on FSU and UF regarding NIL infractions. Moody argues that the NCAA’s actions violate antitrust laws and hinder student-athletes’ ability to negotiate fair NIL agreements.
ESPN highlighted the most impactful transfer for each top 25 team, with quarterback DJ Uiagalelei chosen for the Seminoles. Uiagalelei’s experience and skill make him a key addition to the team.
Baseball
Several former FSU baseball players are making their mark in the MLB, including Cole Sands, Luke Weaver, Cal Raleigh, DJ Stewart, Tyler Holton, and Taylor Walls.
Softball
FSU softball fell short against the Gators but continues to showcase impressive performances. Freshman Jaysoni Beachum has been named a Top 25 Finalist for the 2024 USA Softball National Player of the Year.
All Sports
FSU men’s basketball adds transfers Justin Thomas and Bostyn Holt. The men’s and women’s tennis teams are gearing up for NCAA Tournament action, while men’s golf secures the No. 1 seed in the NCAA Stanford Regional. Golfer Luke Clanton continues to shine, earning ACC Golfer of the Month honors for the second consecutive month.
