Jacob Rizy Reflects on First Start at FSU: “I Just Really Wanted to Win”
The Florida State Seminoles have hit a rough patch this season, now facing their fourth straight loss after falling 36-14 to rival Miami. With a record of 1-7, FSU’s offense has been trying out multiple line combinations to address its ongoing challenges. Among the fresh faces on the line, offensive lineman Jacob Rizy made his debut start in the game against the Hurricanes, taking 64 snaps at guard and allowing three pressures.
Reflecting on his first start, Rizy expressed both gratitude and disappointment. “It was a great opportunity. Unfortunately, we didn’t come out with a win,” he shared after practice. “The message that week was that we really had to win that game, and we fell short. It was nice to play, but I just really wanted to win.”
Rizy, a transfer from Harvard, had his first game appearance with FSU during their 42-16 loss to SMU, where he earned a PFF grade of 64. His debut against Miami brought new challenges, especially with a packed Hard Rock Stadium crowd of over 60,000 — a rare sight for Miami home games.
“It was loud—really loud,” Rizy said. “We had the volume up in practice, but the game environment was intense. After the first drive, I settled down. It was a great experience facing such a strong defensive line.”
Rizy also mentioned the supportive competition between himself and redshirt freshman Andre Otto, who has also seen game time this season. “He and I push each other in practice, the weight room, everywhere. If he’s lifting 5 pounds more than me, I have to lift 10 pounds more. Off the field, we hang out, but he’s a great competitive resource.”
The Seminoles will look to turn their season around as they prepare to host the North Carolina Tar Heels this Saturday at 3:30 p.m. EST in Doak Campbell Stadium.
For Rizy’s full interview, watch below.
