McKenzie Milton's return to the field ends with a Florida State touchdown vs. Notre Dame. (0:42).
TALLAHASSEE (Fla.) -- McKenzie Milton played in his first game since a devastating leg injury nearly three years ago. He led Florida State from a 10-point deficit and forced overtime against No. 9 Notre Dame on Sunday night.
In OT, the Seminoles' upset bid was thwarted by Notre Dame's Jonathan Doerer who kicked a 41 yard field goal to win the 41-38 victory.
Milton was forced to leave the field after Jordan Travis, the starter, lost his helmet. Milton's first play was a 22-yard completion for Ja'Khi Doug.
Instead of putting Travis back in the game, the Seminoles decided to stick with Milton. He completed three passes on the drive that concluded with Treshaun Ward's 2-yard touchdown run.
Milton completed the game with 5-of-7 passes for 48 yards.
Milton sustained artery and nerve damage as well as dislocated knees and torn ligaments when he was hurt as UCF's starting quarterback against USF in November 2018. As a result, his leg almost had to be amputated.
Milton didn't give up on his dream of playing football again. He worked his way back to manage the UCF scout teams last year. In January, he transferred to Florida State to get another chance to play. Milton stated that he was just looking for a chance to play. Coach Mike Norvell did not promise him any playing time.
Milton and Travis participated in a quarterback contest throughout the spring, and fall. Although Travis was eventually selected by the Seminoles to face the Irish, Milton remained at the sideline until the call.
UCF football, as well as many former UCF colleagues, showed support for Milton via social media.
You've got a whole Nation behind you, KZ#10hana pic.twitter.com/lz0k1mEMfN UCF Football (@UCF_Football) September 6, 2021
ESPN reported that the Milton family was expecting 75 people to attend the game, including family members, friends, and doctors who helped him through his recovery. Mark Milton stated that they told everyone they couldn't guarantee McKenzie would be there, but that everyone wanted to be there.
