2019 schedule
DE Brian Burns, QB Deondre Francois, C Alec Eberle, OL Derrick Kelly, OL Arthur Williams, WR Nyqwan Murray, DE Walvenski Aime, NG Frederick Jones, DT Demarcus Christmas, SS A.J. Westbrook
During the few games he started last year, James Blackman showed he can lead the offense. He’s accepted the challenge of being of being the projected full-time starter this year and has grown into more of a leader, according to his teammates. The spring game showed he will have several passing options, with DJ Matthews among those who stepped up and performed. FSU currently has 13 wide receivers on the roster.
The run game features Cam Akers, who can help take some of the pressure off Blackman. Khalan Laborn also returns, giving FSU another dangerous playmaker at tailback.
Defensively, the Seminoles created some competitive depth at the cornerback position. Freshman Akeem Dent was among the young players who shined all spring.
Weaknesses: The offensive line added bodies during national signing day, but youth and inexperience may limit how much they can help. Replacing center Alec Eberle may be the hardest task.
The Seminoles currently have no player on their roster who has played center at the college level. Many of the returning players off of last year’s line were out of position when they did play and will have to get back into a rhythm when they return to their natural positions.
Outlook: Florida State’s success will likely hinge on the offensive line’s improvement. Briles has gotten results out every offense he’s led during his career and he has the tools to do the same in Tallahassee. False starts and pass-interference calls played hurt the offense often last season, and the spring scrimmage indicated the Seminoles enter this season a lot more disciplined as a team.
The ACC’s Atlantic Division is still Clemson’s to lose, but the Seminoles should return to the postseason.