
The NoleSports Podcast
92 episodes — Page 2 of 2

Reacting to Florida State softball's shocking early NCAA Tournament exit
The way that the Tallahassee Regional played out left no other choice than a quick reaction episode of the NoleSports Podcast. FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Carter Karels discuss all aspects of the Florida State softball team's shocking NCAA Tournament exit in its home regional. They discuss all that went wrong Sunday that led to Mississippi State's doubleheader sweep, replay review, umpires and a sad end to the road for a few Seminoles. They also look at the big picture, examining how the best FSU softball teams haven't been the ones that went on the best runs and the type of motivation this could be for what should be an extremely talented team next season in Tallahassee. Carter and Curt will be back with another episode later this week on the FSU baseball team and some FSU football topics.

Kathryn Sandercock on Florida State softball's postseason
The games that really matter are about to begin for the Florida State softball team. Beat writers Curt Weiler and Carter Karels talked about the Seminoles as they begin postseason play this weekend. Then, pitcher Kathryn Sandercock joined the podcast and offered her perspective on the Tallahassee Regional, this season, NIL and more. Carter and Curt wrapped things up by discussing the FSU baseball team before weighing in on the Jimbo Fisher vs. Nick Saban controversy.

Jermaine Johnson is a Jet, FSU soccer has its new coach
The first round of the 2022 NFL Draft is in the books and for the first time since 2019, Florida State had a player taken in the first round. Curt Weiler and Carter Karels are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast to discuss this and so much more. Jermaine Johnson became FSU's latest first-round pick Thursday, albeit a bit later than expected. He was taken 26th overall by the New York Jets after he was mocked as high as fourth overall. What were the reasons behind this and how good a fit are the Jets for Johnson? Additionally, Carter and Curt talk about the other players who could hear their name called in this year's draft and some guys who could be draft prospects over the years to come. The guys also discuss the hire of Tennessee head coach Brian Pensky as the new FSU soccer coach, the FSU softball team's continued dominance against ranked opponents, the FSU baseball team's rough trip to Clemson and some trolling of Miami in the wake of the NIL drama that broke last night out of Coral Gables. You can follow Curt on Twitter at @CurtMWeiler and Carter at @CarterKarels.

FSU loses Amarius Mims to Georgia, interview with recruiting analyst Tom Lemming
The NoleSports Podcast returned to cover a variety of topics Tuesday. FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Carter Karels discussed Amarius Mims' strange recruitment and the Garnet & Gold Spring Game before drafting the position groups that make them the most confident heading into the summer. Then, the guys were joined by CBS Sports Network recruiting analyst Tom Lemming to talk about Mims, FSU recruiting, NIL, the transfer portal and more. Lastly, Curt and Carter offered their thoughts on the Seminole baseball and softball programs. Follow Curt on Twitter at @CurtMWeiler and Carter at @CarterKarels.

FSU spring game preview, interview with Rising Spear NIL collective
A day ahead of the Florida State Garnet & Gold Spring Game, the NoleSports Podcast is back to preview the game. FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Carter Karels discuss the position groups they're excited to see, who they think could have a good game and some areas that may be a concern in the short term entering Saturday's game. Then, the guys are joined by Bob Davis and Matthew Quigley with Rising Spear to talk about the first NIL collective launched around FSU athletics, the importance of launching when they did and how they hope to help FSU's athletic department without being affiliated. Finally, Curt and Carter break down the latest chapter in Mark Krikorian's shocking FSU soccer departure and talk about key midweek wins for the FSU baseball and softball teams entering tough weekend series. Follow Curt on Twitter at @CurtMWeiler and Carter at @Carter Karels.

Recapping FSU's first spring scrimmage, top-five FSU baseball and softball
Florida State football's first spring scrimmage is in the books. FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Carter Karels are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast to break down what they heard from the first scrimmage as well as the position groups and players that have impressed at the midway point of spring camp. Additionally, the guys share their thoughts on the success that the top-five FSU baseball and softball teams have been having, discuss Sue Semrau's incredible impact with the FSU women's basketball program in the wake of her retirement and also briefly talk about the Oscars, specifically THAT moment.

Assessing the Florida State football team through four spring practices
Four Florida State spring football practices down, 11 to go. The Seminoles held their first four practices of spring before separating for the school's spring break. This gave FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Carter Karels plenty to break down about the state of the team on the latest episode of the NoleSports Podcast. The guys discuss the players that have impressed them, the most surprising position units and the areas of the team that they could see holding the team back during the 2022 season. After this all-football episode, the guys will be back next week with a more well-rounded episode across FSU athletics.

Spring football hype, catching up with the other Florida State sports
The NoleSports Podcast is back! Florida State beat writer Curt Weiler and new FSU beat writer Carter Karels are back to talk an incredibly busy time in Seminole sports. After a brief introduction of Carter, the guys talk about Tuesday's Tour of Duty they got to watch and what they can take away from that. After that, Carter and Curt spend some time previewing FSU's spring camp, which starts Saturday, talking the major storylines, what they're excited to see and much more. Other discussion topics include: FSU's 2022 football schedule, basketball season winding down and hot starts on the diamond for both the FSU baseball and softball teams. You can follow Curt on Twitter at @CurtMWeiler and Carter at @CarterKarels.

Can Florida State football secure a bowl bid at rival Florida's expense?
Florida State's football team enters Saturday's matchup with longtime rival Florida with both teams sitting at 5-6 and their bowl eligibility at stake. Our Tallahassee Democrat FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez examine the matchup. They also talk about Florida State's soccer team, which is one victory away from a return trip to the College Cup, as well as what's coming up for the Seminoles' men's and women's basketball teams.

After a big rivalry win over Miami, can Florida State carry that momentum forward?
The Florida State football team is coming off its biggest win of the Mike Norvell era. The Seminoles jumped ahead early and rallied late to beat rival Miami, snapping a four-game losing streak to the Hurricanes. Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez, FSU beat writers for the Tallahassee Democrat, are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast to break down the win. The guys discuss Jordan Travis' growth on display, the return of the run game and the surprisingly strong performance from the FSU defense. They also look ahead to this week's game at Boston College, what it will take to keep the momentum forward and whether this team has matured enough to respond well to success. They also discuss the FSU soccer team's next steps in the NCAA Tournament, the second week of basketball season for the FSU men and women and the rare chance for FSU to host the NCAA Cross Country Championship in Tallahassee this weekend. For a complete look at Curt and Andre's widespread FSU athletics coverage, go to Tallahassee.com and NoleSports.com.

After back-to-back losses, can FSU football rebound vs. rival Miami?
Tallahassee Democrat FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez look at the state of the Seminoles football team as it prepares to play its home finale against arch rival Miami. They also discuss the FSU soccer team's triumph at the ACC tournament and the start of the men's and women's basketball seasons.

Basketball season is here and Florida State has two Top 25 teams
Florida State basketball season is here. Both the FSU men's and women's teams start their seasons this week (the women Tuesday and the men Wednesday) and both will do so in the Top 25 of the Coaches Poll. To celebrate the occasion, we're doing an all-basketball episode of the NoleSports Podcast. FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez did exclusive interviews with FSU men's associate head coach Stan Jones (starts at 2:04) and FSU head women's coach Sue Semrau (starts at 43:11). They also share their thoughts about the teams entering the season, discuss their strengths and the questions that need to be answered and talk about both teams' non-conference schedules.

After tough loss to Clemson, can FSU rebound against NC State?
Tallahassee Democrat FSU beat writers Andre Fernandez and Curt Weiler go over the good and the bad from the Seminoles' 30-20 loss last week at Clemson and look ahead to the final stretch of the season starting with Saturday's home game against NC State. The guys also talk some soccer as FSU aims for another ACC tournament crown this week.

An unexpected chance to beat Clemson. Can Florida State pull it off?
Coming into the season, Florida State had a minimal chance to beat Clemson. And yet here we are, a few days out from the game and the Seminoles are a single-digit road underdog for Mike Norvell's first time taking on the Tigers. FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez break down the matchup and examine the Seminoles' path to their first win over Clemson since 2014. How can FSU move the ball against Clemson's stingy defense? Will FSU's defense carry forward its progress from the last few weeks? How will Clemson's crowd and the Tigers' 31-game home winning streak affect the Seminoles? All that plus some preliminary predictions for how the game plays out on this week's episode of the NoleSports Podcast.

NoleSports Podcast: Florida State-UMass week
Tallahassee Democrat FSU beat writers Andre Fernandez and Curt Weiler discuss the Seminoles' upcoming game against UMass and what lies beyond during the second half of the football season. They also take a look at FSU's unbeaten soccer team and the grueling final portion of its schedule before the postseason.

How much does a shocking upset win change expectations for the rest of Florida State's season?
Saturday was a night of firsts for Florida State football coach Mike Norvell. His first road win with the Seminoles, his first winning streak with the Seminoles and by far the most complete performance since he took over the program ahead of the 2020 season. FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez break down the Seminoles' 35-25 win at North Carolina, how it happened and why it was more impressive last year's home win over UNC. Then, they discuss how the win may make them reevaluate their beliefs of what this team can accomplish the rest of the season against a back half of a schedule that is difficult, but maybe not as much as one thought at the start of the 2021 season. You can follow Curt and Andre's work at Tallahassee.com and NoleSports.com.

NoleSports Podcast: FSU-North Carolina preview
Tallahassee Democrat FSU beat writers Andre Fernandez and Curt Weiler discuss the Seminoles' first victory of the season over Syracuse and look ahead to their upcoming road game against North Carolina.

Can Florida State finally win its first game of the season against Syracuse?
For the Florida State football team, another week brought another loss last week as the Seminoles dropped to 0-4 with a near-comeback home loss to Louisville. FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast, breaking down the loss and why there could be cause for some optimism coming off of how that game ended. The guys also look ahead to the Seminoles' matchup with Syracuse this weekend. FSU has never lost to Syracuse at home. What are the keys to extending that streak and finally getting that first win of the season. They also discuss FSU's recruiting efforts with its 2022 recruiting class. The Early Signing Period is still over two months away but FSU has done well to keep its entire 2022 class still committed through its early season struggles.

Previewing Florida State-Louisville football
Florida State beat writers Andre Fernandez and Curt Weiler of the Tallahassee Democrat break down the Seminoles' 0-3 start and look ahead to FSU's matchup this Saturday.

Setting the scene for Florida State's critical road test at Wake Forest
Florida State doesn't have any time to afford dwelling on last week's shocking loss. A week after losing to Jacksonville State on the final play, the Seminoles now must respond this week at Wake Forest. FSU needs a win in its first road game of the season Saturday against the Demon Deacons in order to avoid the program's first 0-3 start in 45 years. Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez break down the matchup, the keys to FSU pulling the slight upset and how much FSU's performance against Wake could be indicative of what the rest of the season looks like on the latest episode of the NoleSports Podcast. They also discuss the FSU soccer team's ongoing undefeated streak after a top-10 win on the road and the FSU volleyball's inspired first win over rival Florida in five years. For more of Andre and Curt's coverage of the Seminoles, check Tallahassee.com and NoleSports.com.

Florida State football reaches new low with "embarrassing" loss to Jacksonville State
It doesn't feel hyperbolic to say that may be the worst loss in Florida State football history. About 12 hours removed from the Seminoles' shocking 20-17 loss to FCS opponent Jacksonville State, FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez break down the extremely surprising result. They discuss how the FSU defense deserves less blame than the offense even though the defensive breakdown on the final play will be the lasting legacy of this game. Other talking points including the lingering penalty issues that loomed large, the uncertainty about FSU's quarterback situation and the concern over the lasting impact this game could have. Finally, the guys do a bit of looking ahead to next week's Wake Forest game, which feels even more important than it did before this loss but for a different reason now.

Looking back at Florida State's near upset of Notre Dame and ahead to week 2
Tallahassee Democrat beat writers Andre Fernandez and Curt Weiler recap Florida State's near upset of Notre Dame and take a look ahead to the Seminoles' matchup in week 2 against Jacksonville State. They also go over the Florida State soccer team's undefeated start to the 2021 season.

Football season is here! A preview of FSU-Notre Dame, the Seminoles' 2021 season
Florida State football is (almost) back! The Seminoles open their 2021 season Sunday night against No. 7 Notre Dame. To set the scene for the season opener, FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez break down the matchup, the areas that could pave the way for an FSU upset and how much an unrestricted crowd at Doak Campbell Stadium could make a difference in the result. The guys also look at what other games they're looking forward to during a loaded weekend of college football. Finally, Andre and Curt take a larger look at FSU's season as a whole, the importance of a strong start and what they're projecting for FSU's 2021 record. For more extensive FSU coverage, check Tallahassee.com and NoleSports.com.

A breakdown of Florida State's 2021 football roster
Tallahassee Democrat beat writers Curt Weiler and Andre Fernandez break down Florida State's roster heading into the 2021 season, which begins Sept. 5th against Notre Dame

Reflecting on Bobby Bowden (with Jim Henry), the start of FSU football preseason camp
The NoleSports Podcast is back with Curt Weiler and new Tallahassee Democrat FSU beat writer Andre Fernandez. First, they welcome on Democrat sports editor Jim Henry, who had a decades-long friendship with Bobby Bowden, to discuss the legendary FSU coach's career, legacy and impact in the wake of his death over the weekend. Then, Curt and Andre discuss the first three practices of FSU football's preseason camp. Discussion points include the quarterback battle, what they have seen from the FSU wide receivers and the reasons to believe FSU's defense should improve this season. It's only been three practices, none of them so far in full pads, but there's still plenty that has been observed. For full coverage of FSU football, visit NoleSports.com. For more Tallahassee news, follow the Tallahassee Democrat on:• Facebook: https://bit.ly/2qBpPbU• Twitter: https://bit.ly/2rFeD2b• Instagram: https://bit.ly/2n5JnIJ Subscribe to the Tallahassee Democrat: https://bit.ly/2CaEceB

The end of spring football, basketball departures
Florida State beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast. The guys breakdown the end of FSU football and the spring game. They also talk about FSU basketball departures and the Seminoles losing four out of five games in baseball

The end of FSU basketball season, spring football in full swing
Florida State beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast. The guys start with a breakdown of FSU's NCAA Tournament performance, what went well in FSU's two wins and what went wrong in the season-ending loss to Michigan. They analyze whether this team lived up to expectations and discuss the players they could lose off this team. They also look ahead to what should be a loaded upcoming season for the Seminoles. They break down the decisions a few players have to make, but talk about how high they are on next year's team both nationally and in the ACC despite whatever those decisions may be. Finally, Curt and Antwan talk about FSU's ongoing spring football camp. What's the state of the FSU quarterback battle and what has impressed and disappointed them through two-thirds of FSU's spring camp?

FSU basketball prepares for NCAA Tournament, early spring football observations
FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast. The boys talk about FSU basketball's NCAA Tournament draw, what challenges are presented by the Seminoles' opening game against UNC Greensboro and what are the secrets to a deep run in March Madness. Curt and Antwan also discuss their early impressions of FSU's spring football camp, having each watched one practice so far. Highlights include a promising start for the FSU defense and an intriguing quarterback battle that is probably the main storyline of the spring. Finally, they discuss the FSU baseball team. The bats seem to be waking up for the Seminoles at the right time as they started their week out with their first home win over rival Florida in nearly six years. How dangerous can this team be if the offense keeps producing and the pitching keeps up its elite level of work.

Previewing FSU in the ACC Tournament, the start of spring football
Florida State beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley and back with another episode of the NoleSports podcast. The guys break down FSU's canceled ACC Tournament Quarterfinal game against Duke and what does that mean moving forward. They also discuss the start of spring football and FSU's slow start on the baseball diamond

FSU basketball near another ACC crown, Freddie Stevenson interview
The Florida State men's basketball team is one win away from a second consecutive ACC regular-season championship. Florida State beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley are back with another episode of the NoleSports podcast, breaking down the Seminoles' Senior Night win over Boston College. They also look ahead to Saturday's Notre Dame game, how much on upset alert FSU should be and if the Seminoles' recent problems are worrisome with postseason play looming. Antwan and Curt are also joined by former FSU fuillback Freddie Stevenson. Freddie shares some stories from FSU's 2013 National Championship team, discusses his book Trials to Triumph and discusses the importance of spring football practices, especially for a new coaching staff. Finally, the guys discuss FSU's momentum on the recruiting trail and the state of the FSU baseball program after the Seminoles were swept by Pitt last weekend.

FSU basketball keeps winning, baseball season is underway
Tallahassee Democrat FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast. They spent a good amount of time discussing the last week in the ACC and how solid FSU's lead now is atop the ACC standings with only three games as the Seminoles keep winning while other top teams are struggling. They also discuss the upcoming game at North Carolina. It's a place FSU has not won much lately and while it's hardly a must-win game for the Seminoles, a win at UNC would almost wrap up FSU's second straight ACC Championship. They preview the matchup, the keys to victory and talk the Seminoles' dominant win at Miami. The start of FSU baseball's season is also discussed. Lessons learned from FSU's season-opening series against North Florida and the difficulty associated with how quickly the Seminoles are starting ACC play.

Breaking down FSU's huge victory over Virginia, start of baseball season
It's another edition of the NoleSports Podcast as FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley to talk about Florida State's huge basketball victory over Virginia on Monday night. What does the win mean for FSU's NCAA seeding? Also, can FSU win its second consecutive ACC Championship Finally, they talk about football's Tour of Duty and the start of the baseball season You can follow Curt on Twitter @curtmweiler and Antwan @antwanstaley. You can read all of their work at NoleSports.com.

Interview with FSU head coach Mike Norvell, breaking down the Seminoles' 2021 schedule
It's a major episode of the NoleSports Podcast as Florida State head football coach Mike Norvell joins FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley to talk about the start of the Seminoles' offseason, the new arrivals on campus this month and the importance of an intact offseason. After catching up with Norvell, Curt and Antwan break down the Seminoles' 2021 football schedule that was released this week. They discuss how the schedule breaks down and offer early game-by-game predictions for FSU's 2021 slate of games. Finally, they talk about FSU's updated 2021 signing class with the addition of four-star wide receiver Destyn Hill Wednesday and discuss the FSU basketball team's setback of going on its second COVID pause of the season. You can follow Curt on Twitter @curtmweiler and Antwan @antwanstaley. You can read all of their work at NoleSports.com.

Interview with FSU offensive line coach Alex Atkins
It's a busy time in Florida State athletics and FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast to break it all down. The guys talk about interviewing FSU offensive line coach Alex Atkins as they talk about the improves on the Seminoles offensive line and what to expect from the unit this upcoming season

FSU football starts Tour of Duty, basketball goes on a run
It's a busy time in Florida State athletics and FSU beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley are back with another episode of the NoleSports Podcast to break it all down. The guys talk about interviewing the transfer additions to FSU's football roster, how impressive they are and the leadership they should bring to this team. They also talk the start of Tour of Duty workouts and how important an entire offseason spent together will be for this team after last year's offseason was interrupted. Curt and Antwan also discuss the FSU basketball team's run of success since returning from its COVID shutdown. The Seminoles are starting to look like last year's team and have an upcoming schedule that seems to line up for more success. Finally, they discuss the FSU baseball team less than a month out from Opening Day. Among other things, they discuss FSU's pitching depth and how important that will be in what will likely be a bizarre offseason. You can follow Curt on Twitter @curtmweiler, Antwan on Twitter @antwanstaley and follow their work at NoleSports.com.

Recapping FSU's Early Signing period and recent transfers, FSU basketball's return this week
Florida State beat writers Curt Weiler and Antwan Staley are back with another episode of the Tallahassee Democrat's NoleSports Podcast. They recap the Seminoles' Early Signing Period and FSU's recent transfers signings. Curt and Antwan also discuss FSU's return to the hardwood as the Seminoles paused their basketball activities due to COVID. FSU is scheduled to play against NC State and North Carolina at the Tucker Civic Center this week. Follow along at NoleSports.com for the Democrat's extensive FSU coverage.

Florida State head coach Mike Norvell on the state of the FSU program
Florida State head coach Mike Norvell joins the NoleSports Podcast to discuss the latest with the FSU program.

Reacting to Florida State's introduction of new head football coach Mike Norvell
With FSU's coaching search over after five weeks, Florida State beat writers Curt Weiler and Wayne McGahee III recap the Seminoles' hiring of Mike Norvell, what impressed about his opening press conference, the beginning of his staff being created and where he needs to focus most with the Early Signing Period looming.

Recapping FSU-BC, FSU-UF, and the latest on the Seminoles' coaching search
FSU beat writers Wayne McGahee III and Curt Weiler break down the Seminoles' wins over Boston College in football, Florida in basketball, and the latest on the coaching search.

With Willie Taggart fired, where does Florida State go from here?
With big breaking news popping up Sunday afternoon as FSU head coach Willie Taggart was fired after FSU's 27-10 loss to Miami, FSU beat writers Wayne McGahee III and Curt Weiler break down the end of the Taggart era.What went wrong, what were the biggest missteps, what will be the lasting legacy of Taggart at FSU and who could the FSU administration pursue as the next head coach of the Seminoles?

Will FSU get its first rivalry win under Willie Taggart against Miami?
FSU beat writers Wayne McGahee III and Curt Weiler preview the FSU-Miami game and give their picks against the spread for college football's biggest games.

FSU-Syracuse Preview: Taggart's hot seat, how important is this game?
With the season hanging in the balance, the FSU football team hosts Syracuse Saturday in its first home game in nearly a month.Rumors are swirling about the security of Willie Taggart's job and Wayne McGahee III and Curt Weiler address these rumors, talk about the importance of the Syracuse game and preview the matchup on this episode of the NoleSports Podcast.