Offense
FSU returns one of the nation’s top QB’s in Heisman Trophy candidate Christian Ponder. Ponder was absolutely lights out in his second year under center as he completed over 60% of his passes and threw for over 2.700 yards. The FSU QB will have three returning starters at his disposal, so these numbers should only get better. Ponder knows Jimbo Fisher’s offensive system to a tee, and he is the perfect leader to direct the Noles to a possible ACC title in 2010.
One of the biggest shocks in offensive football today is that FSU has not had a 1,000 yard rusher since Warrick Dunn in 1996, which is astounding considering the running backs that have been through this system over the last fifteen years. It is also shows the incompetant and underachieving brand of football that took place in the later years of Bowden’s tenure. However, the drought may end this year as RB Lonnie Prior returns as well as an offensive line that is led by LG Rodney Hudson and should be among the nation’s best.
Defese
FSU’s defense in 2009 may have been one of the worst I’ve ever seen. as the unit gave up a dreadful 435 yards and 30 points per game. Mickey Andrews retires and now enters Mark Stoops, who left his brother Mike at Arizona, to try and improve this unit. I really believe he will see some quick success despite the numbers of last season.
Sophomore DT Jaccoby McDaniel should step up immediately and be an absolute star on the defensive front. His HS All-American footage is some of the best I’ve ever seen from high school prospect. FSU should gain improved play from the LBs as Kendall Smith, Jeff Luc, and Nigel Bradham could be as talented as any group in America. The key for FSU will be to shore a pass defense that finished a horrendous #102 in the nation last season. The Noles do lose three secondary starters, but this unit can only get better.
Overall
FSU made a tough, but indeed correct decision as they forced Bobby Bowden out of the head coaching job at the conclusion of the 2009 regular season. It was past time for Jimbo Fisher to take the reigns of this program, and I believe you will see an immediate return to disciplined tenacious football that used to reign supreme in Bowden’s glory years. Fisher reminds me a lot of his mentor in Alabama coach Nick Saban, and they seem to operate out of the same task oriented and focused mindset.
FSU is absolutely loaded on offense as 9 returning starters are back as well as Christian Ponder. Four of their tougher opponents must come to Doak Campbell Stadium, and if FSU can pull an early upset in Norman, OK in September this could be a very special one in Tallahassee.
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