Better offensive line play fuels victory at Louisville
TALLAHASSEE — Florida State’s offensive line struggled to consistently protect quarterback Deondre Francois during the early part of this season thanks, in part, to injury problems.
With the return of offensive tackle Landon Dickerson, the offensive line looks similar to preseason expectations. The line’s improved strength and depth showed during a 28-24 win at Louisville Saturday, during which FSU did not not allow a sack.
The Louisville game marked the first time this season when FSU had all five of its top offensive linemen available throughout the entire game.
“When you have guys playing together, you can see that improvement a lot quicker and I think the communication up front becomes a lot better when you have guys in there consistent enough,” FSU coach Willie Taggart said. “I think that helped us Saturday especially on pass protection.”
The Seminoles’ offensive line could get another boost.
Taggart said offensive lineman Derrick Kelly is day-to-day, which means he could be available for FSU’s game at rival Miami Saturday.
Kelly suffered a leg injury during the Seminoles’ Week 3 loss at Syracuse, leaving in the fourth quarter.
“Derrick is getting a lot better,” Taggart said Monday. “If you’d asked me last week if I thought Derrick would be able to play this week, I would’ve said no, but watching him yesterday, moving around, he’s further ahead than we thought he’d be.”
Getting Kelly back this week could bolster protection in the pocket. It also means FSU could have its sixth different group of offensive line starters this season.
While Kelly is working to get back on the field, offensive guard Cole Minshew impressed against