James offers advice to Francois

TALLAHASSEE — If there is anyone who knows what Florida State QB Deondre Francois is going through this week, it is standout S Derwin James.

Just a season ago, James tore a meniscus and ended his sophomore campaign with the Seminoles, forcing FSU’s secondary to turn to inexperienced options in its defensive backfield.

In the season-opening loss to Alabama where James made his long-awaited return to action, Francois suffered a torn patellar tendon in his left knee, ending his redshirt sophomore season.

Now James hopes to offer Francois firsthand advice on the long road to recovery.

“Basically just telling him not to be so hard on himself — it happens,” James said of what he would tell Francois. “Just really being a leader off the field and show you care about the team and the guys . ... He’s going through a lot right now.”

Francois has taken his injury to heart, believing he down his teammates despite suffering a fluke injury.

“Take it day by day,” James said of Francois. “There are going to be a lot of hard days. Remember to stay humble.”

True freshman QB James Blackman, a three-star prospect from Belle Glade, will be thrusted into the starting lineup, making his first career start against Louisiana-Monroe. “[Francois is] a big part of what we do, but James [Blackman] is talented too and a player that makes plays,” James said. “He’s a guy that has a lot of confidence.”

Next game: Louisiana-Monroe at FSU, Saturday, WRBW-Ch. 65

Safid Deen let noon,