The decision by the College Football Playoff (CFP) Selection Committee to exclude Florida State (FSU) from the playoffs remains a heated topic nine months later. The controversy erupted in early December when FSU, despite having a strong season, was not selected for a second CFP appearance. Many speculate that the decision was influenced by the season-ending injury to FSU’s star quarterback, Jordan Travis.
ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum criticized FSU for allegedly overreacting to their exclusion, suggesting that they were excessively emotional about not making it into the playoffs. Finebaum’s comments implied that the Seminoles were being overly dramatic about their situation.
However, Robert Griffin III, a former Heisman Trophy winner and ESPN commentator, defended FSU and argued that their season should be celebrated rather than ridiculed.
Griffin III, in a response to the criticism, emphasized that the Seminoles’ exclusion was not due to any failures on their part but rather because of an unfortunate injury to their starting quarterback. He criticized anyone who trivializes FSU’s situation, highlighting that the team’s exclusion was a direct consequence of Travis’s injury, which he believes should be treated with empathy rather than derision.
Further, Griffin III pointed out the tremendous effort and resilience shown by FSU, noting that they managed to finish the regular season undefeated despite the setback of losing their star quarterback. He argued that the team’s achievement under such challenging circumstances should be celebrated rather than mocked.
Griffin III’s defense of FSU is particularly poignant given his personal connection to the university; his wife, Grete Griffin, is an FSU graduate and former track and field athlete. His passionate support for the Seminoles underscores his deep connection to the school and highlights his commitment to defending its honor in the face of public criticism.
