Four-Star Quarterback Carter Smith and Florida State Are Still in Communication.
As the 2024 college football recruiting cycle continues to intensify, one of the most talked-about prospects is *Carter Smith**, a four-star quarterback from **South Florida**. Smith, who has become one of the most coveted quarterbacks in the nation, has been highly sought after by some of the top programs across the country. Despite the growing competition for his commitment, Florida State University (FSU) remains a key player in his recruitment, and reports suggest that the Seminoles are still actively engaged with Smith.
Smith’s recruitment has been a topic of discussion for months, and as National Signing Day draws nearer, there’s still a sense of uncertainty about where he will land. However, Florida State has remained in the mix, continuing to build a strong relationship with the talented quarterback as the Seminoles look to further strengthen their future at the quarterback position.
### A Glance at Carter Smith’s Recruiting Profile
Carter Smith is a 6’4”, 210-pound dual-threat quarterback who has excelled both through the air and on the ground. Playing for **South Florida’s powerhouse program**, Smith has consistently been one of the top quarterbacks in his class. With a strong arm, excellent mobility, and the ability to make plays outside of the pocket, Smith fits the modern prototype of the quarterback position—able to make throws at all levels of the field while also using his legs to extend plays and gain yardage when necessary.
In his high school career, Smith has thrown for more than 3,000 yards in each of his last two seasons, racking up impressive numbers that showcase his arm strength and accuracy. Additionally, his ability to make plays with his legs has allowed him to be an effective weapon in short-yardage situations or when defenses force him out of the pocket.
Smith’s combination of size, skill, and athleticism has earned him offers from a wide range of top programs, including **Alabama, Georgia, Texas, and Florida**, among others. His ability to lead a team and perform in high-pressure situations has made him one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in the 2024 class, and many college football programs are closely monitoring his recruitment, hoping to secure his commitment.
### Florida State’s Pursuit of Carter Smith
Florida State has long been in communication with Carter Smith, and the Seminoles have made it clear that they view him as a priority recruit. FSU is no stranger to top quarterback talent—having produced Heisman-winning quarterbacks like **Jameis Winston** and **Chris Weinke**—and the Seminoles are eager to continue that legacy.
Under head coach **Mike Norvell**, Florida State has made significant strides in recent years, transitioning from a rebuilding phase to a legitimate contender in the **ACC**. The Seminoles are coming off a strong 2023 season, finishing with an 11-3 record, and have positioned themselves as a potential playoff contender in the near future. This momentum, combined with Norvell’s offensive-minded approach, has made Florida State an appealing destination for quarterbacks like Smith.
FSU has also built a strong relationship with Smith, with the coaching staff making frequent visits to watch him play and maintaining regular contact. Norvell and offensive coordinator **Alex Atkins** have made it clear that Smith is a key part of their future plans and that they envision him as the centerpiece of the program’s offense moving forward.
For Smith, the appeal of Florida State lies not only in the program’s recent success but also in the potential for early playing time. With FSU’s current quarterback room featuring a mix of experienced players and young talent, Smith could have the opportunity to compete for the starting role sooner rather than later.
### The Importance of Florida State in Smith’s Decision
While Florida State faces stiff competition for Smith’s commitment, the Seminoles remain an important contender in his recruitment. The combination of FSU’s success on the field, their strong relationship with Smith, and the chance to play in a high-powered offense all factor into why the Seminoles are still very much in the mix.
For Smith, the decision to commit to Florida State—or any other school—will ultimately come down to finding the best fit for his playing style and career development. The Seminoles’ **up-tempo, pass-oriented offense** could be an ideal system for Smith to showcase his dual-threat ability. Additionally, Norvell’s emphasis on developing quarterbacks and his ability to adapt his offensive scheme to fit a quarterback’s strengths makes FSU an appealing option for a highly regarded recruit like Smith.
However, there are also other factors that could influence Smith’s decision. The quarterback’s desire for **early playing time** will be a critical component. Some of the other programs pursuing him, such as **Texas** or **Florida**, have experienced quarterbacks at the top of their depth charts, which could mean that Smith would need to wait for his turn. Florida State, with its mix of established talent and potential openings in the quarterback room, could provide him with a clearer path to immediate playing time.
### The Recruiting Battle: Who Else Is in the Mix?
While Florida State is still in communication with Smith, the competition for his services is fierce. Some of the nation’s top programs are also vying for his commitment, and he has made official visits to several schools, including **Georgia**, **Alabama**, and **Texas**. These programs have all presented their own appeals, from Georgia’s consistent success in the SEC to Alabama’s track record of producing elite quarterbacks and competing for national titles.
Each of these schools offers unique opportunities, and it will be interesting to see which program ultimately wins out. For now, however, Florida State is still firmly in the race, and the Seminoles will need to continue working to keep Smith’s interest.
### What’s Next for Carter Smith?
As the recruitment process moves toward its final stages, Carter Smith’s decision will likely come down to his comfort level with the coaching staff, his potential for early playing time, and the overall direction of the program. While Florida State remains in the hunt, Smith is expected to continue evaluating his options closely.
Smith’s decision could have a major impact on the future of whichever program he selects. A quarterback of his caliber could immediately elevate any offense, and for a program like Florida State, landing him would be a major victory in a highly competitive recruiting cycle.
For now, FSU supporters can take solace in the fact that the Seminoles remain in communication with Carter Smith and are still firmly in the mix. The coming months will be pivotal as Smith continues his recruitment and eventually makes his choice. For Florida State, the hope is that their strong relationship with the quarterback, combined with the program’s recent success, will be enough to secure his commitment and continue building the foundation for future success in the ACC and beyond.
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