Florida State Loses Starting Left Tackle During Open Quarter Of Orange Bowl

Florida State is concluding its 2023 season in the Orange Bowl with a game against the Georgia Bulldogs. Early on in the contest, the Seminoles find themselves trailing by a touchdown in Hard Rock Stadium.

The team entered Saturday afternoon shorthanded on both sides of the ball with at least 25 players missing from the roster. The Seminoles were able to gain a first down on their opening possession of the game but haven't done much since then.

Florida State has also had at least one player get banged up in the opening quarter. Following a play on the Seminoles' first drive, starting left tackle Darius Washington struggled to get back to his feet and had a pretty heavy limp while walking back to the huddle. Though he was able to finish out the possession, Washington was replaced on the next drive by redshirt junior Robert Scott.

Washington was evaluated by Florida State's medical staff in the tent on the sideline. Head coach Mike Norvell entered at one point to check on his offensive tackle. Washington eventually exited the tent and rejoined his teammates on the sideline. After speaking more with trainers, he was escorted back to the locker room.

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At this point, it appears that Washington is unlikely to return to the game due to the lower-body injury. He has battled through multiple injuries throughout the season while starting games at left tackle and center. On the season, Washington has appeared in 12 games, with nine starts.

Scott will be stepping into his place after veteran Bless Harris transferred from the program earlier this month. He's been limited to just six appearances on the season and just 152 total snaps while dealing with injuries. Scott underwent off-season surgery that prevented him from suiting up during spring practice.

NoleGameday will continue to provide updates when necessary.

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