For anyone who has tuned into any form of college football this year, it is obvious that Florida State isn't at its peak. Though we don't have the best record, there's no arguing that we don't have the talent. With a completely new coaching staff, this year has been all about adjusting. Boys- you're doing great. You all got recruited to Florida State University for a reason. We are all rooting for you, and I know that you have the potential to be GREAT.
We might not have a winning record this year, and that's okay. As I said, this year is about learning to grow together and find your identity as a team. As I look over the season so far, I can see clearly that we have the talent. Every single game, win or lose, we have high points. You boys showcase your talent, but without consistency. The moment you learn to work as a unit and fight together, you will be unstoppable.
I believe FSU showed their full potential during the first half of the Miami game. They started off strong, finishing the first half 21-7. However, when the second half started, they lost momentum which cost them the game. I believe that if they learned to play the way they did during the first half, consistently, the team would be unstoppable.
Our offense is strong individually but faces problems working together. There's no doubt each player has the size and talent to be successful. Our Defense is just as talented. However, when you put all the pieces together, there have been a lot of missed assignments (MA's). Working with a new coaching staff can be difficult, so between the staff and the players, everyone needs to work to find their groove.
Coach Willie Taggart came into this season facing difficulties. The first, and most prominent, challenge is that he is working with a new team. The majority of the team was recruited by Jimbo Fisher. Fisher recruited players that played to his strengths as a coach. He knew how to run the field, and found players that would execute his plays to his standard. With Taggart coming into a new team, he has players that do not play to his strategy. Between the coaching staff, and players, everyone is working to figure out each other this season.
We also have a young team this year. For many players, this is their first year starting on the team. As one of the schools with the most active players in the NFL, it is not surprised we've lost a lot of great talent to the draft. Within the last 2 years, 10 of our most valuable players have been drafted into the league. That's great, don't get me wrong, but it takes time to grow to that level. I have no doubt that we will have players be drafted again this year. We always have the talent, it's just about being executed.
We just need two more wins. That's it. The only goal in mind should be to go to a bowl game. I understand this will be difficult. You boys are facing some powerful teams. Out of the 3 games left this season, all 3 teams are ranked in the top 25. Notre Dame #3, Boston College #17, and Florida #15. I believe we can do this. Don't let these teams intimidate you. We have the longest bowl game attendance streak in the history of all college football. You can't let this season ruin you. Show them who you are boys.
For all you FSU fans out there that haven't given up on our boys yet, it isn't time to throw in the towel. They need your support now, more than ever. We have some tough teams left to play, but we know how talented our team is. I am proud to be a Seminole, and always will be. Win or lose, this is my team. We will all be rooting for you the next few weeks.
As always, GO NOLES! F-L-O-R-I-D-A S-T-A-T-E
