FSU Flips Four-Star QB Kevin Sperry from Oklahoma to the Surprise of Virtually Everyone but FSU
In a stunning turn of events that shocked many in the college football recruiting world, four-star quarterback Kevin Sperry has committed to Florida State, decommitting from the University of Oklahoma. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound signal caller from the class of 2024 had been a major commitment for the Sooners for nearly a year, but FSU’s late push and a series of strategic recruiting moves led to the flip.
The move comes as a surprise to most, especially given how solid Sperry’s commitment to Oklahoma seemed throughout 2023. The Sooners had been heavily involved with the talented QB, who was seen as a potential future leader of their offense. However, Florida State’s relentless pursuit and strong relationship-building with Sperry helped flip the script.
A Late Surge by FSU
From the outside, Florida State’s rise in the race for Sperry’s services seemed to come out of nowhere. In early November, FSU had not even been a primary contender, with many recruiting analysts assuming that Sperry would stay loyal to Oklahoma. But the Seminoles, under head coach Mike Norvell and quarterbacks coach Tony Tokarz, made a concerted effort to change that narrative.
Florida State’s interest in Sperry became more apparent after the team’s strong start to the 2023 season, which included a statement win over LSU and a resurgence in the ACC. The Seminoles were not only performing well on the field but also showing signs of becoming a national powerhouse under Norvell. This resonated with Sperry, who had long admired FSU’s upward trajectory.
FSU’s quarterback room, which includes rising star Jordan Travis, was another appealing factor. The Seminoles emphasized that Sperry would have an opportunity to come in and compete early for playing time, something that resonated with the four-star QB. Additionally, FSU’s strong NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) program played a role in sealing the deal, providing Sperry with a lucrative opportunity in the college football landscape.
Oklahoma’s Shock and Reaction
Oklahoma, who had been confident in keeping Sperry in their fold, was left blindsided by the decision.
Head coach Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby had made Sperry a priority throughout his recruitment, but their efforts ultimately weren’t enough to hold off FSU’s late charge.
The Sooners had built a strong relationship with Sperry, hosting him for multiple visits, but they couldn’t match the late-game momentum FSU had created.
Sperry’s decision to leave Oklahoma isn’t just a blow to Venables’ 2024 class, but also a sign of how quickly recruiting can shift. Oklahoma had been banking on Sperry as a centerpiece for their future, and this flip creates a hole in their quarterback plans.
It also signals the importance of staying aggressive until the very end in recruiting, as FSU demonstrated with their persistence.
What Sperry Brings to FSU
On the field, Sperry is a polished passer with a strong arm and the ability to make all the throws necessary for success at the next level.
He has shown impressive decision-making and poise in the pocket, traits that made him a high-profile target for both Oklahoma and FSU.
His commitment represents a major win for Florida State’s recruiting efforts and gives them a potential star at the quarterback position in the years to come.
Looking Ahead
For Florida State, this flip represents a significant momentum boost as they continue to build their program under Norvell.
As FSU looks to contend for an ACC title and make noise on the national stage, landing a quarterback of Sperry’s caliber is a crucial step forward.
While this recruitment saga has certainly left Oklahoma fans reeling, it’s also a reminder of the volatility of college football recruiting, where things can change in an instant.
As for Sperry, his decision to join FSU will be one that fans of both programs will watch closely as he progresses through his senior season and prepares for life in Tallahassee.
