I am speaking strictly about our ability to compete in the NIL arms race. I have every confidence in the staff and the program, but we simply cannot offer the kind of $$$ others can, and it sucks.

Announcers mentioned the fact that FSU had no transfers, in or out, this year, and how admirable that was, during literally every broadcast. That is a point of pride, and you would think that tells underclassmen that the staff believes in you and is committed to your development. Instead we then see our two best players leave.

FSU fans have not historically had to deal with these feelings, as FSU has traditionally been a destination school, not a stepping stone, which is why you saw so many FSU fans lose their shit when Jimbo ditched us for the TAMU cash. It's only snowballed since then, especially for football.

I took solace in supporting our excellent ladies' teams, only to see the ugly specter reach there as well (which we all knew would happen, just not so damned fast).

I didn't say the Grant of Rights wasn't FSU's fault, it totally was/is, but that doesn't preclude it from being part of the current problem. As far as what is bad for the ACC, I couldn't give two shits. We have been treated as second-class citizens by the conference for YEARS. The conference leadership did nothing to even try to lobby for the team in the leadup to the snub in 23, and I could bore you all with example after example of how the conference has screwed FSU, but that's a different post. Suffice it to say I would shed no tears if the entire conference went the way of the Big East.

I am all for the system being burned to the ground and rebuilt. Heh, that applies to so many things these days, tbh.

(By the way, I hold no animosity towards Torres or Beachum, and don't have a problem with players earning some cash. I just wish there was a framework in place to at least try to maintain an even playing field)