FSU Season Preview: The Seminole Defense

Sep 28, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive tackle Nile Lawrence-Stample (99) tackles Boston College Eagles running back Andre Williams (44) during the first half at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive Tackle

Florida State loses stalwart defensive tackle Tim Jernigan from last season, but has a talented group of big interior defensive lineman to replace him. Nile Lawrence-Stample, figures to play a prominent role in the defensive line rotation. He may not stand out for his ability to get pressure, but that’s entirely the point. Lawrence-Stample is stout at the point of attack. He doesn’t get pushed back and absorbs double teams as well as anyone on the team. A lot of Tim Jernigan’s success in four down lineman sets was attributable to Lawrence-Stamples ability to hold at the point and keep blockers from getting to other defenders. That should continue this season too as the redshirt junior sees an even more prominent role.

Also in the mix to help replace Jernigan are veterans Eddie Goldman, Justin Shanks, Derrick Mitchell and Giorgio Newberry — who is back on defense after moving to tight end last year. Goldman might have the highest ceiling of the bunch, but he also doesn’t play exclusively inside, either.Newcomers Derrick Nnadi and Demarcus Christmas could factor into the equation as well.

Many felt Keith Bryant and true freshman Arthur Williams would also be in the rotation, but early indications have them working with the practice squad.

While replacing Jernigan is more easily said than done — players of his ilk are few and far between — the Seminoles have plenty of talented bodies vying to step up.