Corruption Projected

 

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

1.       Clemson, 6-0, 1

2.       Ohio State, 1-0, 2

3.       Alabama, 5-0, 3

4.      Georgia, 3-1, 4

5.      Notre Dame, 5-0, 5

6.      Oklahoma State, 4-0, 7

7.      Oregon, 0-0, 8

8.      Texas A&M, 3-1, 9

9.      Florida, 2-1, 10

10.    Miami, 5-1, 11

11.    Wisconsin, 1-0, 12

12.    USC, 0-0, 13

13.    Michigan, 1-0, 22

14.    Cincinnati, 4-0, 14

15.    North Carolina, 4-1, 15

16.    Arizona State, 0-0, 18

17.    Brigham Young, 6-0, 19

18.    Indiana, 1-0, NR

19.    Penn State, 0-1, 6

20.    Kansas State, 4-1, 23

21.    Boise State, 1-0, NR

22.    Iowa State, 3-2, 20

23.    Oklahoma, 3-2, NR

24.    Southern Methodist, 5-1, 21

25.    Marshall, 5-0, 25

OUT: Virginia Tech (16), Minnesota (17), North Carolina State (24).

NEXT: Washington, Tulsa, Memphis, Louisiana State, Nebraska, Auburn, Arkansas, Coastal Carolina, Northwestern, Utah, Army, Minnesota, Missouri, Texas, Air Force, Louisiana, Liberty and California.  

Red Tsunami

 

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

1.        Clemson, 5-0, 1

2.        Ohio State, 0-0, 2

3.        Alabama, 4-0, 3

4.        Georgia, 3-1, 4

5.        Notre Dame, 4-0, 5

6.        Penn State, 0-0, 7

7.        Oklahoma State, 3-0, 8

8.        Oregon, 0-0, 9

9.        Texas A&M, 3-1, 10

10,      Florida, 2-1, 11

11.      Miami, 4-1, 12

12.      Wisconsin, 0-0, 14

13.      Southern Cal, 0-0, 15

14.      Cincinnati, 3-0, 16

15.      North Carolina, 3-1, 6

16.      Virginia Tech, 3-1, 13

17.      Minnesota, 0-0, 17

18.      Arizona State, 0-0, 19

19,      Brigham Young, 5-0, 20

20.      Iowa State, 3-1, 23

21.      Southern Methodist, 5-0, 24

22.      Michigan, 0-0, 25

23.      Kansas State, 3-1, NR

24.      North Carolina State, 4-1, NR

25.      Marshall, 4-0, NR

OUT: Tennessee (18), Auburn (21) and Louisiana (22)

NEXT: Iowa, Tulsa, Kentucky, Indiana, Oklahoma, Boise State, Memphis, Washington, South Carolina, Utah, Ole Miss, Nebraska, Arkansas, Coastal Carolina, Tennessee, Auburn, Louisiana, Army, Texas, Air Force, Northwestern and Liberty.

Nebraska 2020 Preview

 

Nebraska Cornhuskers 2020 Preview

  

Nebraska appeared set to make a move in 2019, but after a lethargic victory over South Alabama where nobody looked good, Nebraska fell at Boulder after leading 17-0, indicative of yet another disappointing season that is hard for the faithful to tolerate. Injuries and the ineffectiveness of Adrian Martinez at quarterback played a role, but after getting blown out at home by Ohio State tanked the season. The offensive woes were glaring, a puzzling product of this coaching staff with a returning quarterback.  Failing to make bowl games should not and will not be tolerated, so the pressure is now on this coaching staff to get the Big Red rolling, even in this coronavirus stricken upcoming season. Talent has been being assembled, and the sense of urgency now engulfs the program.

OFFENSE


QB Adrian Martinez
Photo: Cornnation.com

Coming off a strong freshman campaign, in our Nebraska preview last year we wrote the Big Red should be stronger on offense with QB Adrian Martinez, who if able to remain healthy, appeared poised to play himself into national honors consideration. Martinez was not healthy, lost many of his weapons, and had a horrendous season, in no way resembling the player he was in 2018.  In fact, while coach Scott Frost may not concur, fans will have a short leach on Martinez this fall if major improvement is apparent in short order. Improving upon the numbers Martinez had in 2018 numbers, which saw him throw for 17 touchdowns (rushing for 8) while competing some of 65% of his throws accounting for 2600 yards, were expected last year. Those numbers would be a significant improvement from the 2019 effort.  Martinez appears to have all the tools, and he will need to rise up to the occasion to keep his job, which he almost lost last year.  Noah Vedral got some opportunities, but the 'Husker legacy player has transferred to Rutgers, clearing the way for Luke McCaffrey, who flashed some outstanding play making ability in limited opportunities. Coaches and fans have confidence in McCaffrey, with some hoping he hits the field sooner than later.  Martinez dazzled us in 2018, and we hope he regain that level of performance.  We will know early, and if he fails to show significant improvement from 2019, expect to see the talented McCaffrey right quick. Four star freshman Logan Smothers, who has many excited, will be the third team signal caller.

Georgia Tech transfer Dedrick Mills had a decent season last year, especially with him seemingly having to shoulder a more extensive role than originally thought after phenom Maurice Washington, who often showed flashes of brilliance, was removed from the team. Rahmir Johnson could be an exciting player, but stamina and health are a concern. If Johnson is 100%, he could be a very dangerous player for the Huskers. If healthy, Ronald Tompkins could be a weapon. Freshman Sevion Morrison and Marvin Scott look ready for primetime. 

Nebraska record setting WR JD Spielman, a potential honors candidate, inexplicably left Nebraska to transfer to TCU to be a kick returner, so the Huskers are pretty inexperienced at wide receiver. 

Sophomore Wandale Robinson, certainly considered the Big Red's top offensive player in 2019, returns at slot receiver ready for a breakout season on the national stage. Kade Warner was injured much of 2019, but he has been very reliable for the Big Red. JUCO transfer Omar Manning, at 6'4" 225, appears the big play stretching the field wideout the Huskers have longed for, but the Huskers seem treading slowly here  heading into the season. If ready, Manning has unlimited potential and could be a very dangerous weapon. Jamie Nance and Chris Hickman are ready to go. Freshman Alante Brown seems poised to play, while Marcus Fleming and Zavier Betts are very talented, but Betts seems poised for a redshirt. A wildcard is Demaryion Houston, who had great speed as is Levi Falck, who has impressed in fall camp. This is a potentially strong group with Robinson leading the way, but as a whole it is unproven. The impact of new OC Matt Lubick will be vital.

The tight end position was a weapon for Frost at UCF, and we expect it to increase as a central piece of the offense in Lincoln moving forward. Jack Stoll is the starter, but 6'8" Austin Allen was a favorite target for Martinez in 2018 and should be a factor. Travis Vokolek, a transfer from Rutgers, seems a playmaker and will factor in without doubt. Kurt Rafdal will also play.

When evaluating the potential ascension of a team, we often look at returning starts on the offensive line. So in looking at the 2020 Cornhuskers, the offensive line looks like a veteran group as there is a high number of starts returning within the offensive line. Former Husker player Greg Austin came to Nebraska from UCF and is considered an outstanding offensive line coach.  Austin seems to have settled in on a group as we get going in 2020. At left tackle is Brendan Jaimis, who has 20 starts under his belt. Jaimes has played some good ball and is an All B1G candidate, but there is still room for improvement. The most unknown spot up front is left guard.  Boe Wilson will start with Broc Bando backing up. Cameron Jurgens is anchored at center and has massive potential. Will Farniok will back up. Matt Farniok moves inside on the right side at right guard from right tackle, which suits him better. Ethan Piper  and Trent Hixon are reserves. Bryce Benhart, at 6'9" 300, steps in at right tackle. Christian Gaylord backs up along with Brant Banks. We expect the starting line to be good. It will be important for this group to at a minimum meet expectations, as if Nebraska is to emerge as conference champion contender, the Big Red will need to be able to run the ball when they have to, just not when the want to. It would also be great if one of these veterans steps up as leader within the unit as a coach on the field.

Nebraska also must improve significantly in the red zone, as without a reliable placekicker in 2019, Nebraska has difficulty in finishing drives. Tough to win games having that issue. Much of this will fall on the quarterback position having an experienced line to operate behind. With an experienced line, a veteran quarterback and a standout player in Wandale Robinson, the unit should average a minimum of 30 points per game. Should things go off smoothly, there is potential for so much more.  

DEFENSE

Cam Taylor-Britt
Photo-Hudl

    

Nebraska improved statistically on defense in 2019, but it was hard to recognize it. There were too many breakdowns and few turnovers and the Blackshirts were unable to consistently get opposing offenses off the field. Failures offensively contributed to the problem as well. The Huskers have some very intriguing young talent rising up on stop side, and there is potential for some real upside in 2020.

An area of the defense that needs significant improvement is the defensive end position. The Big Red had serious issues setting the edge and have had for several seasons. Nebraska has been average in quarterback sacks and pressures and gave up an alarming amount of yards per rush in conference a year ago. For the Huskers to rise to the next level, this must improve. Ben Stille needs to improve on his stat line, which accounted for only 3 sacks. Casey Rogers is on the come, so look for him to get on the field.

Everybody is raving about Ty Robinson at nose tackle.  Robinson has the potential to be a superstar and will be a real issue for opposing lines. Damion Daniels is also stout. These are big guys, the guys Frost spoke about wanting to see a few years back when Iowa was pushing around the Husker DL.

On the front, Nebraska can go big or small, and they have players to fit the situation. North Carolina transfer Jordan Riley, who has quick feet and tall at 6'6", can play inside or on the edge. Keem Green is going to be involved, likely on the strong side. Pheldarius Payne is making a move and could help rush the passer. Chris Walker, freshman Nate Hutmaker and walk-on Colton Heist along with Mosai Newsome figure inside while Tate Wilderman looms large in potential at DE.

Mike Dawson comes back to help the defensive front. JoJo Domann will man one outside linebacker spot. Domann is quick and has good football IQ capable of making big plays. Nico Cooper is emerging backing up and could well see significant time. Garrett Nelson will back up Domann. Freshman Javian Wright showed promise, but a shoulder has sidelined him for the year. Caleb Tannor has serious potential at the other OLB spot, but he has not been a complete player at the spot as of yet. Nick Henrich and Niko Cooper are players that can get on the field. Perhaps Jackson Hannah can figure in

Much improvement is needed at inside linebacker. Returning starters Colin Miller and Will Honas return,  Miller has speed but gets lost on occasion, but he seems settled. Will Honas has been injured, but he has not maximized his potential since arriving. Luke Reimer seems to make plays when given the opportunity. Nick Henrich is a player to watch. Garret Snoodgrass, Zach Schlager and Eteva Mauga-Clements are all potential pieces at play.

We were very excited at the promise of Braxton Clark at corner, but he has been lost for the season, Thankfully, the secondary is perhaps the strongest position on the team. Cam Taylor-Britt can play every position, and has, but it seems he is best suited at cornerback. Dicaprio Bootle is very solid at the opposite corner. JUCO transfer Nadab Joseph has size at 6'2" and is pushing to get on the field while Quentin Newsome is one of the best Husker players nobody knows about. Ronald Delancy and freshman Tamon Lynum are fast improving.  Deontai Williams was ready for primetime in 2019, but he was lost for the season early. Williams is potentially special and his injury really set the defense back.

Freshman Noa Pola-Gates is a star in the making and will start out backing Williams, but expect him to find the field somewhere. At strong safety, starter Marquel Dismuke returns. Dismuke is quite capable, but there is a contingent of folks who think Myles Farmer has great potential at the spot. Cam Taylor Britt would be the fifth safety if necessary. There is a lot of talent and experience on the back end for the Big Red, and this should be a position of strength. 

An issue for the Blackshirts since Frost arrived is winning the turnover battle, an item his defenses are predicated on. The defense is designed to give up some yards while feasting on turnovers. So far under Frost and Chinander, we have not seen much of that. The Husker defense has had issues getting opponent offenses off the field on third down. There appears talent to make gains in the area of quarterback pressures, stopping the run and creating an environment that produces turnovers. It is paramount if Nebraska wants to get back to winning.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Nebraska has been horrific on special teams for years now and it is costing Nebraska football games. The kicking specialist were very average, and field goals were once again sketch at best. Opponent kickoff returns for touchdowns by Wisconsin and Iowa were perhaps decisive in those games a year ago. Considering the intelligence and athleticism Nebraska has, this is simply unacceptable and must be significantly corrected.  Michigan State transfer William Przystup came in last year and should win the job as punter. LSU transfer Connor Culp is the obvious favorite at placekicker. Chase Contreraz from Iowa Western is also a possibility. Feels like this aspect will be improved. Certainly, WanDale Robinson can return kicks, and Cam Taylor-Britt has experience returning punts. But those guys are valuable, so the staff will likely look elsewhere. Candidates from the trio of backs in Rahmir Johnson, Marvin Scott and Sevios Morrison and perhaps Demaryion Houston, Alante Brown and Marcus Fleming could get chances. Kick returns are hidden yardage, and Nebraska needs to improve dramatically in this important area of the game.

 

INTANGIBLES

In year two at UCF, Frost took the Knights to an undefeated season and a Peach Bowl win over the SEC's Auburn Tigers. Many thought something similar would occur after he arrived in Lincoln, but while it is not all on Frost, thus far his return has not produced anything close to the expectations for on the field performance. There are indications internally the program is being built correctly and brighter days are ahead, but the natives are already becoming restless, and they cannot be blamed after two 4-8 seasons with no bowl game participation. This team is young but becoming more talented every year. This is a group that is poised to excel. But, this very young team needs leadership on the field who can assist when bad things happen. Nebraska has been horrible at overcoming adversity, and that needs to change. Winning helps bring confidence, but taking care of your own individual business out on the gridiron is key. Perhaps Brendan Jaimis offensively and Cam Taylor-Britt on the defensive side can step up.

The weight program implemented by Zach Duval has changed the physical condition of the team, allowing more avenues for success to travel. 

HONORS CANDIDATES

WanDale Robinson seems the leading honors candidate, and with the production we anticipate him having, he should garner All B1G honors. Offensively, Brendan Jaimis could reach All B1G, and don't count out Dedrick Mills if he elevates his game.  Cam Taylor-Britt, Dicaprio Bootle, Marquel Dismuke and Deontai Williams are potentially in contention for All B1G status.

NEW ARRIVALS

WanDale Robinson
Photo:Star-Herald

 There are many newcomers who are expected to play pivotal and notable roles for the Big Red in 2020, but perhaps the most significant is WR Omar Manning, the #1 JUCO player coming out last year. Manning is big and fast, the type of player at the receiver position has lacked in recent years. However, it appears his status is somewhat in question in fall camp, so we are not yet sure what if any role he will play. Running backs Marvin Scott and Sevios Morrison look primed to play, Receivers Marcus Fleming, Alnate Brown and TE Travis Vokolek will figure. DL Jordan Riley will get a ton of snaps. LB Nico Cooper along with defensive backs Noa Pola-Gates, Nadab Joseph and Ronald Delancey (wearing #0) will see time. One or both of the placekickers, Connor Culp and Chase Contreraz, will play.

FINAL ANALYSIS

First, we are thankful to be playing ball in 2020, and fans across the nation can really thank folks associated with the Nebraska program (along with a contingent from Ohio State) that we are playing. If it were up to B1G commissioner Kevin Warren advancing a political agenda, we would be holed up in our basement. 

A revised schedule dealt Nebraska no favors, as the Huskers open up on the road at veteran and powerful Ohio State. Coming back to Lincoln, Wisconsin visits. The plug and play Badgers are a top fifteen team, but starting quarterback Jack Coan is out indefinitely. The Huskers then travel to Northwestern before returning to Lincoln to play top ten team Penn State. The Lions best player, LB Micah Parsons, opted out. Odd favor a 1-3 record here, but 2-2 seems more reasonable. Illinois visits, sp the Big Red should be 3-2 before traveling to Iowa City on Black Friday. Boy, Nebraska is due in this game. Nebraska then visits Purdue before hosting Minnesota to close out. Most will say Nebraska goes 5-5 but I will project that some good things happen and the Huskers finish 6-4. GBR!  

GAMEDAY GALLERY

College Football Top 25

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

1.        Clemson, 4-0, 1

2.        Ohio State, 0-0, 2

3.        Alabama, 3-0, 3

4.        Georgia, 3-0, 5

5.        Notre Dame, 3-0, 7

6.        North Carolina, 3-0,  8

7.        Penn State. 0-0, 9

8.        Oklahoma State, 3-0, 11

9.        Oregon, 0-0, 12

10.      Texas A&M, 2-1, 21

11.       Florida, 2-1, 4

12.       Miami, 3-1, 6

13.       Virginia Tech, 2-1, 10

14.       Wisconsin, 0-0, 14

15.       Southern Cal, 0-0, 15

16.       Cincinnati, 3-0, 17

17.       Minnesota, 0-0, 17

18.       Tennessee, 2-1, 13

19.       Arizona State, 0-0, 18

20.       Brigham Young, 4-0, 19

21.       Auburn, 2-1, 22

22.       Louisiana, 3-0, 23

23.       Iowa State, 3-1, 24

24.       Southern Methodist, 4-0, 20

25.       Michigan, 0-0, NR

OUT:  Louisiana State (25).

VOTES: Iowa, Tulsa, Ole Miss, Kentucky, Indiana, Kansas State, Oklahoma, UCF, Boise State, Washington, Nebraska, NC State, Boston College, Marshall, Texas, Arkansas, Utah, Army, Memphis, Coastal Carolina, Houston, Texas Christian and Air Force.

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

 The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

1.        Clemson, 3-0, 1

2.        Ohio State, 0-0, 2

3.        Alabama, 2-0, 3

4.        Florida, 2-0, 4

5.        Georgia, 2-0, 5

6.        Miami, 3-0, 6

7.        Notre Dame, 2-0, 7

8.        North Carolina, 2-0,8

9.        Penn State, 0-0, 9

10,      Virginia Tech, 2-0, 10

11.       Oklahoma State, 3-0, 19

12.       Oregon, 0-0, 16

13.       Tennessee, 2-0, 14

14.       Wisconsin, 0-0, 14

15.       Southern Cal, 0-0, 21

16.       Cincinnati, 3-0, NR

17.       Minnesota, 0-0, 20

18.       Arizona State, 0-0, 23

19.       Brigham Young, 3-0, NR

20.       Southern Methodist, 4-0, NR

21.       Texas A&M, 1-1, 18

22.       Auburn, 1-1, 15

23.       Louisiana, 3-0, NR

24.       Iowa State, 1-1, NR

25.       Louisiana State, 1-1, 20

OUT: UCF(11), Texas (12), Oklahoma (22) and Pittsburgh (24).

VOTES: Michigan, Texas Christian, Iowa, Tulsa, Indiana, Texas, Oklahoma, UCF, Nebraska, Ole Miss, Kansas State, Marshall, Memphis, Mississippi State, Arkansas, Boston College, Army, Utah, Coastal Carolina, Washington and Virginia. 

Obama Girl Kamala Driving The Democratic Bus

 

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

 The Color & Pageantry

College Football

1.        Clemson, 2-0, 1

2.        Ohio State, 0-0, 2

3.        Alabama, 1-0, 3

4.        Florida, 1-0, 5

5.        Georgia, 1-0, 4

6.        Miami, 3-0, 10

7.        Notre Dame, 2-0, 6

8.        North Carolina, 1-0, 9

9.        Penn State, 0-0, 12

10.      Virginia Tech, 1-0, 13

11.       UCF, 2-0, 14

12.      Mississippi State, 1-0, NR

13.       Texas, 2-0, 11

14.       Wisconsin, 0-0, 16

15.       Auburn, 1-0, 17

16.       Oregon, 0-0, NR

17.       Tennessee, 1-0, 18

18.       Texas A&M, 1-0, 15

19.       Oklahoma State, 2-0, 19

20.       Minnesota, 0-0, 20           

22.       Louisiana State, 0-1, 8

23.      Southern Cal, 0-0, NR

23.       Oklahoma, 1-1, 7

24.       Arizona State, 0-0, NR  

25.       Pittsburgh, 3-0, 21

OUT: Cincinnati (22), Memphis, (23), Brigham Young (24 and Kentucky (25).

VOTES: Cincinnati, Memphis, Brigham Young, Michigan, Louisiana, Iowa, Indiana, Nebraska, Marshall, Iowa State, Arkansas State, Kansas State, Kentucky, Baylor, SMU, Washington, Boston College and Ole Miss.   

Softball

 

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

The Color & Pageantry 

College Football Top 25 

1.      Clemson, 2-0, 1 

2.      Ohio State, 0-0, NR 

3.      Alabama, 0-0, 2 

4.      Georgia, 0-0, 3 

5.      Florida, 0-0, 4 

6.      Notre Dame, 2-0, 5 

7.      Oklahoma, 1-0, 7 

8.      Louisiana State, 0-0, 8 

9.      North Carolina, 1-0, 9 

10.    Miami, 2-0, 13

11.    Texas, 1-0, 11

12.    Penn State, 0-0, NR

13.    Virginia Tech, 0-0, 12 

14.    UCF, 1-0, 16 

15.   Texas A&M, 0-0, 9 

16.   Wisconsin, 0-0, NR

17.   Auburn, 0-0, 14 

18.   Tennessee, 0-0, 15 

19.   Oklahoma State, 1-0, 10 

20.   Minnesota, 0-0, NR 

21.   Pittsburgh, 2-0, 18 

22.   Cincinnati, 2-0, 19 

23.   Memphis, 1-0, 20 

24.   Brigham Young, 1-0, 21 

25.   Kentucky, 0-0, NR

OUT: Louisville (17), Louisiana (22), Mississippi State (23) and Texas Christian (25). 

VOTES: Michigan, Louisiana, Iowa, Indiana, Mississippi State, Nebraska, Army, Marshall, Northwestern, Texas Christian, Baylor and Arkansas State. 

EDITORS NOTE: After omitting the B1G Ten Conference last week, per the reversal of the conference decision with the B1G slated to begin play October 23, teams previously ranked or now thought worthy of a ranking were added to the poll. The same scenario will hold true for the PAC 12 should they also reverse their decision and begin play. Some teams, most notably Oregon, Texas A&M and Michigan, have had several players opt out of the season; therefore, their ranking, or potential ranking, will have dropped from where they were placed in our preseason poll.

Money Transport

 

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football Top 25

1.      Clemson, 1-0, 1
2.      Alabama, 0-0, 3
3.      Georgia, 0-0, 5
4.      Florida, 0-0, 6
5.      Notre Dame. 1-0, 7
6.      Oklahoma, 1-0, 8
7.      Louisiana State, 0-0, 9
8.      North Carolina, 1-0, 10
9.      Texas A&M, 0-0, 12
10.    Oklahoma State, 0-0, 13
11.    Texas, 1-0, 14
12.    Virginia Tech, 0-0, 16
13.    Miami, 1-0, 18
14.    Auburn, 0-0, 19
15.    Tennessee, 0-0, 23
16.    UCF, 0-0, 24
17.    Louisville, 0-0, NR
18.    Pittsburgh, 1-0,
19.    Cincinnati, 0-0, NR
20.    Memphis, 1-0, NR
21.    Brigham Young, 1-0, NR
22.    Louisiana, 1-0, NR
23.    Mississippi State, 0-0, NR
24.    Kentucky, 0-0, NR
25.    Texas Christian, 0-0, NR

OUT: Iowa State (25)

The following ranked preseason teams were dropped as at the time of the creation of the poll, their conferences have prohibited their play:  Ohio State (2), Oregon (4), Penn State (11), Southern Cal (15), Wisconsin (17), Michigan (20), Minnesota (21) and Arizona State (22). Should play commence in the B1G Ten and/or PAC 12, the teams will be eligible for ranking within the poll.

VOTES: Army, Arkansas State, Appalachian State, Ole Miss, Baylor and Georgia Tech.

NEVER FORGET

 

Florida State Seminoles 2020 Preview

As we noted last fall, by any standard applied, Coach Willie Taggart's first season at Florida State was a complete disaster. So, while there was hope, there was little wiggle room for Taggart in year two. As the season started, giving up an 18 point lead in the opener at home in a hurricane moved game to lose to Boise State riding their gunslinger freshman quarterback set an ominous tone. On the FSU spring tour, I told Taggart that first game was vitally important. It was, and it was a failure on many levels. A lackluster home loss to a marginal Miami team sealed Taggart's fate, not soon enough for many of the Seminole faithful. I was at the game, and it was apparent when entering the stadium a loss filled the air as the Seminoles were not prepared to play. So, thankfully, and with a hole in our wallet, we move on.

The coaching search burned up the internet, with Big Game Bob wearing out Tallahassee Realtors, but in the end perhaps the best available choice has become the new Florida State head coach as Mike Norvell comes over from Memphis. Norvell is an energetic young coach with an offensive mind, dare I say reminding some of a young Bobby Bowden. FSU could only be so fortunate. We like Norvell quite a bit, and think he was an outstanding hire.

There is a culture issue Norvell will have to work around, but there is also some serious talent on hand, led by two players with NFL on the mind in Marvin Wilson and Tamorrion Terry who came back for a chance to better their stock while helping FSU begin a new. Make no mistake; if they had any issue at all with Norvell they would have been gone. FSU has lost very few players in the transition, with some strong leadership on and off the field returning, 2020 could offer some intriguing opportunities.

With the nation turned upside down due to the coronavirus while in the midst of the upheaval of a fourth turning, college football is on the ropes. Two conferences, the B1G Ten and PAC 12, are not playing, if you could possibly imagine. Schedules for the major conferences still playing have been reduced, for some unknown reason, to conference only. The Gators trip to Tallahassee has been cancelled, and the game will not be played for the first time since 1958. Just an idiotic overreaction to the pandemic!

Florida State seems to have a slightly easier revamped schedule, but it will still be very difficult, especially with spring ball shelved due to the coronavirus.  Norvell  and his staff did not get proper timing to implement their philosophies on either side of the ball, although they aren't the only team facing this issue. 2020 will be a building year, one where confidence and comraderies are gained. We expect FSU to find many speed bumps along the way, but the talent on hand makes the Seminoles a dangerous team. It should be fun, but we are just thankful to be on the field. So enjoy!


OFFENSE

QB James Blackman
Photo/Bleacher Report

Memphis teams under Mike Norvell continually lit up the scoreboard, so once his system is fully implemented, we should expect the same. For so long, James Blackman showed such promise, but he appeared to lose focus on many occasions throughout the year. Who can blame him, given the merry go round of coaching he had? Blackman has always displayed his strong arm, but it was disappointing to see him lose his focus and composure. Therefore, Blackman was no shoe in to lead FSU in 2020, but he has performed well in fall camp and will guide the Seminole offensive attack. Freshman Chubba Purdy was thought to be a fierce competitor for the job, but a collarbone injury derailed any hope he had of winning the job. Purdy will be sidelined for a while, leaving Jordan Travis, a gifted runner who adds an intriguing element to the offense, and true freshman Tate Rodemaker to back Blackman. The gifted Cam Akers departed for the NFL, leaving 5* Khalan Leborn to take over, but his continued behavior issues got him dismissed from the team. Jashaun Corbin, a talented 4* transfer from Texas A&M, appears set to take over. But freshman 4* Lawrance Toafili has been turning heads in fall practice and may challenge for significant playing time. Coaches are also impressed with freshman La'Damian Webb. Junior Deonte Sheffield, who has made some plays in his own right, will also figure in. Tamorrion Terry, who average almost 20ypc with 60 snags for 1188 yards, is an All America candidate at WR. There is plenty of talent to catch the attention of opposing stop troops. DJ Matthews is fleet of foot and is the second leading retuning receiver with 36c. Ontaria Wilson and Keshawn Helton, who returns from injury, are weapons. Isaiah Bolden, a big target at 6'4,", has moved from CB to WR and is turning heads. It is time for 4* SO WR Warren Thompson to make waves on the field rather than off. Jordan Young has good speed, while Kentron Pointier, Bryan Robinson and Ja'Khi Douglass, freshman, have a chance for playing time. Camren McDonald is emerging as a team leader for FSU at TE while Wyatt Rector is an intriguing target. UCLA transfer Jordan Wilson is out for the year. The line has been a hinderance for the Seminoles for several years now, giving up a horrendous 48 sacks a year ago, but this group is the best in a couple of seasons. FIU grad transfer Devontay Love-Taylor will anchor a tackle spot. Donte Lucas played well as a freshman and has a bright future at guard. Tony Boselli should be at center, with Baveon Johnson backing up. Versatile Brady Scott will play guard, while redshirt freshman Darius Washington at tackle. This is a decent first team offensive line. However, the second team line is a definite drop down, so FSU must stay healthy up front. G Maurice Smith, T Chaz Neal and G Thomas Schrader will need to step up quickly. Freshman Zane Herring, who could have played his way to a spot, is out for the year. FSU should score points, but being able to do the things you want to do when you need to do them, versus just having success intermittently, will key the potency of the attack. Keeping the first team offensive line healthy will also be vitally important.


DEFENSE

DT Marvin Wilson
Photo/Seminoles.com

Mike Norvell was given a gift when All America DT Marvin Wilson announced he would return to the Seminoles for his senior year. Even when COVID became a player, Wilson stood firm. In fact, taking a well deserved leadership role, Wilson helped Norvell in getting many players to buy in to what Norvell is selling. The Seminoles will forever owe Wilson a debt of gratitude. Wilson is a top ten draft pick, and will anchor the Seminoles defensive unit. In the middle with Wilson is Corey Durden, a high quality player in his own right. Robert Cooper, who has flashed high level play, will figure prominently. Emerging star Dennis Briggs will sit out due to COVID. Tru Thompson and Fabien Lovett could figure. On the outside, Joshua Kaindoh has superstar potential with conference honors candidate Janarius Robinson flanking.  Quashon Fuller will be ready, especially with Jamarcus Chapman siting out due to COVID. True freshman Josh Griffs is really making waves, so look for him to excel when given snaps. RS Freshman Derrick McLendon is another to watch.  Emmett Rice is a quality player who will handle the weak side of the linebacking core. Jaleel McRae is an emerging star. Leonard Warner mans the middle, with freshman Steven Dix, who seems poised to get plenty of playing time, and Kevon Glenn backing up. On the wide side, Amari Gainer will have a chance at conference honors, backed by Kalen DeLoach and Decalon Brooks. The secondary is very strong. Akeem Dent will play boundary corner with All ACC Asante Samuel on the field side. FAU transfer Meiko Dotson will make noise as well. Jarrian Jones and Travis Jay are stellar players to keep a keen eye on.  Safety Hamsah Nasirildeen made plays all over the field before going down to injury last year. The same holds true for Jaiden Lars-Woodbey. Both players have a chance to challenge for national honors if fully healthy.  Brendan Gant, Cyrus Fagan, Carlos Becker and Renardo Green will be the primary backups, but keep an eye on 4* Demorie Tate. Raymond Woodie and Jarvis Brownlee seem very talented as well. The Seminoles could be very stingy on the stop side as this unit could be special.  Those picking FSU to surprise are basing those prognostications on the defensive unit.

SPECIAL TEAMS

It boggles the mind, but the Seminoles have been very average in special teams in recent seasons. Ryan Fitzgerald has been brought in at placekicker. Alex Mastromanno will handle punts. Among those slated to handle kicks are DJ Matthews, Keyshawn Helton, Deonte Sheffield, Travis Jay and Isaiah Bolden.  The Seminoles really need to pick it up a notch here to have success.

INTANGIBLES

Seminoles

Firing Willie Taggart, although financially painful, was a move that simply had to be made. While many of the faithful were seeking big name coaches, the opinion here is that Florida State found exactly the man they needed in luring coach Mike Norvell away from Memphis.  Norvell immediately went to work on the culture, which is the foundation of a successful football program. As fall camp concluded, the team has the look and feel of a group that has bought in, formed a bond, and is ready to play together for all the right reasons. In the past two moribund seasons, the Seminoles have not been lacking talent, so it can be concluded that the right leadership establishing a foundation of meaningful culture can pay huge long term dividends.  While victories may come later, the faithful will surely notice improvement all around the program.

HONORS CANDIDATES

WR Tamorrion Terry
Photo:DraftRite

For Florida State, the list of players who have a legitimate shot at national honors is, although not what it used to be, but higher in number than most suspect. Marvin Wilson at defensive tackle is a fist team All America player and a top ten draft pick. He is the centerpiece of the team on and off the field. Tamorrion Terry is All America capable given our quarterbacks get him the ball regularly. His size and speed make him an prime target for FSU's passing attack. CB Asante Samuel is a national honors candidate. On the defensive side, Hamsah Nasirildeen, if fully healthy, is All ACC at a minimum. Jaiden Lars-Woodbey is also an honors candidate. DE Josh Kaindoh has a chance to enter the national stage with a big year! Offensively, perhaps OT Devontay Love-Taylor could get some consideration for al conference honors.

NEW ARRIVALS

Demorie Tate is Florida State's highest rated recruit, and we expect him to get limited playing time. this fall. At running back, the Seminoles will have two newcomers who will be on the field in Lawrance Toafili  and La'Damian Webb. But Texas A&M transfer Jahsaun Corbin figures to be game one starter. Coaches have been impressed with WR Kentron Pointier in fall camp.  Freshman Stephen Dix is standing strong at linebacker and is a future star. Carter Boatright at TE and OT Thomas Shrader appear set to get opportunities. Two transfers are ready to see major action. OT Devontay Love-Taylor, and FIU transfer, is set to start on the OL. Ball hawk FAU transfer Meiko Dotson will see plenty of time in secondary. Redshirt freshman Ryan Fitzgerald at kicker and Alex Mastromanno at punter will be fresh faces which FSU will need to play well for gridiron success.

FINAL ANALYSIS

It goes without saying that the pandemic has had a mid boggling effect on college football. Heck, as of this writing, in an idiotic and politically driven move (#FireKevinWarren) , the B1G Ten and PAC 12 are not even playing this fall! FSU was supposed to open in Atlanta against West Virginia, but that game was cancelled. Also cancelled was a trip in early September at a pretty good Boise State team, which defeated FSU in Tallahassee last year. The annual game against the Florida Gators, which was to be played in Tallahassee this year, has also been cancelled.  Good grief! The revamped schedule has FSU opening the season by hosting Georgia Tech. While Tech is a fast improving team, this should be a game FSU can handle. Jacksonville State comes to Bobby Bowden Field next, so FSU should be 2-0. Now comes the stiff challenges. The Seminoles travel to Miami September 26, a game they can but probably won't win. Then, Florida State travels to top ten Notre Dame. The Irish have a veteran quarterback and solid team, so winning this is unlikely for FSU. After these two tough road games, a very dangerous North Carolina team visits Tallahassee. UNC is a sleeping giant which has just woken up under coach Mack Brown and appears set for a top ten season. FSU could win it, but it would take a fantastic performance. So, at this point, we got FSU at 2-3. The 'Noles then travel to Louisville, another fast improving  and dangerous team. We consider this game a tossup, but will give it to FSU given the competition they have just been playing. Pittsburgh then comes to Tallahassee, and Pitt is much better than the experts think. Since this is at home, we think FSU wins. So, now we find FSU 4-3. FSU travels to NC State, usually a house of horrors for the Seminoles, but the talent gap appears to large in 2020. So, FSU is 5-3 heading to Clemson, where they will lose to a national championship team. Florida State closes at home against Virginia and at Duke. We think FSU will be playing well and we think FSU easily wins these two games. So, we project FSU to finish 7-4.

GAMEDAY GALLERY

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