Try as they might, parents can't always prepare for everything. No one knows that better right now than the parents of Florida State quarterback, Sean Maguire.
After attending FSU's game against The Citadel, Maguire's parents gave away their tickets to the Seminoles' upcoming matchup against Clemson (1-1) to relatives, the Tallahassee Democrat reported.
To be fair, it wasn't exactly a stretch to think that Maguire wouldn't see the field this week. With reigning Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jameis Winston leading FSU's offense against No. 22 ranked Clemson in an ACC Atlantic Division rivalry game, there was little doubt the starter would play every minute. However, after Winston's first half suspension was announced earlier this week, the sophomore quarterback will make his first career start in one of FSU's two games against ranked opponents this season.
"My parents originally gave away the tickets to my cousins," Maguire said Thursday night during a news conference. "They were like, 'You guys go to this game. You'll have fun tailgating. Sean probably won't play this game.'"
Instead, Maguire's parents and other extended family members will be watching on television at one of their New Jersey homes.
Maguire, who has only attempted 26 passes in his college career, is getting a little extra tutoring from Winston before the big game. The two have been working together on the field and in the film room to prepare.
"We don't really watch it together during off hours (usually), so it's nice to get his point of view and the way he watches film," Maguire said. "I've just learned a lot from the last couple nights with him, just seeing how he prepares."
Coach Jimbo Fisher is used to situations such as this, as Maguire will be the third backup quarterback to start against Clemson in Fisher's five years as head coach. In 2010, EJ Manuel filled in for injured starter Christian Ponder. In 2011, backup Clint Trickett started for an injured Manuel.
"I've pictured this since I started playing little league ball, to get an opportunity like this," Maguire said. "I don't know how much better it gets than this. I'm looking forward to it."
FSU is currently the top-ranked team in the country.
