Time to measure FSU's progress
Florida State’s practices have been filled with energy, providing an early glimpse at the enthusiasm that players
and coaches have displayed as the program wraps up the first spring of the Willie Taggart era.
Taggart has used the spring as an opportunity to teach and motivate the Semi
noles. And he looks forward to the chance to evaluate the progress the players have made in four weeks when they play in the Garnet and Gold Game 6 p.m. today in Doak Campbell Stadium.
“It’s going to be highly competitive, and we want them to go out and do something,” Taggart said. “It’s a game. And the spotlight does strange things to some people. Some people show up and show out, and some people hide. They have an opportunity to go out there to show up and show out.”
Taggart has indicated that the defense has shown up consistently, handling the offense in two spring scrimmages. That is a typical byproduct of spring football but also a reflection of the Seminoles’ injuries on the offensive line. Star tailback
Cam Akers (undisclosed) and quarterback Bailey Hockman (foot) have both missed some practice time, but Taggart expects them to play.
Among the notable players out for the spring game are receiver Nyqwan Murray and defensive tackle Marvin Wilson, who have knee injuries but are expected to be healthy for preseason camp in August. Quarterback Deondre Francois (knee) is also not expected to play.
In the battle for the starting quarterback spot this spring, ex-Glades Central star James Blackman has been a consistent performer in
open portions of practices, delivering on-target throws, showing mobility and dis- playing leadership. Francois has gradually been allowed to do more, rolling out and throwing while on the run but he is expected to be limited or not play today. Hockman, who took a redshirt in his first season at FSU in 2017, hasn’t been as accurate on intermediate routes but has shown he shouldn’t be viewed as the dark horse candidate.