We ask the three biggest ACC football question marks of that week. Here we go for Week 13
How will FSU look with Tate Rodemaker at QB against Florida?
You just don’t replace a legend like QB Jordan Travis. Travis was playing at such a high level, and as the heart and soul of FSU, I gave them a puncher’s chance of winning the national title. That doesn’t mean the Noles still can’t be very good with Tate Rodemaker at QB. Does anyone remember when Peyton Manning finished his career at Tennesee, they won the national championship with Tee Martin or how about more recently Nick Saban in 2020 replaced Jalen Hurts with freshman Tua Tagovailoa at halftime of the national title game, and beat the Georgia Bulldogs. It’s not without precedent a backup QB can do great things. Playing at Florida is a big test, but the Gators also lost their starting QB Graham Mertz and have the pressure of getting bowl-eligible. I believe that Rodemaker can still lead FSU to the playoffs.
Can Louisville finish off a magical regular season with a win over Kentucky?
Louisville has been outstanding in their home stadium, beating Notre Dame and Duke teams who were ranked at the time. The Cardinals showed a special toughness winning at Miami. The Canes played well, but the Cards responded which tells me this is a legitimate top-10 team. Kentucky comes in losers of 5 of their last 6 games including last week’s 17-14 loss to a bad South Carolina team. The Wildcats haven’t beaten a team that’s yet bowl-eligible the entire season. I feel like the Cardinals are on a mission, and I expect them to be 11-1 Saturday afternoon.
What’s at stake between NC State and UNC?
There are so many storylines going into this game. Both teams are 8-3 but headed in opposite directions. NC State has been one of the ACC’s best teams in the second half. UNC has been of one the most disappointing. Both are looking for that elusive 10-win season. There is of course the in-state bragging rights too. Carter-Finley is going to be a zoo for this night game. If there is a bit of an under-the-radar game nationally involving ACC teams during rivalry week, this is it. If you’re smart though you’ll try to catch this one.
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