FSU at NC State: Staff Predictions
By David Visser
FSU vs. NC State: Staff Predictions features the Chop Chat staff’s predictions for the Seminoles road tilt against the NC State Wolfpack.
Here are this week’s staff predictions for when Florida State travels to Raleigh, NC to face the Wolfpack of NC State:
Patrik Nohe– Editor
Florida State should have something to play for this weekend– it’s pride. After about ten days of scathing press — including being vilified for supporting its QB along with being called over-rated — and coupled with memories of the 2012 trip to Raleigh, NC, FSU ought to be ready to smack someone or something. In this case, the NC State Wolfpack. While I think this is a very talented team with a lot of potential, I think Florida State is finally ready to put it together. And while I don’t think this year’s best comes close to last year’s (that was a special team), I still think the Seminoles will make a statement on Saturday. I think Jameis Winston comes out and reminds people why he won the Heisman and the defense stands on its head against Brissett and the Wolfpack offense. And at the end of the day Florida State fans will feel a lot better about their team.
Pick: 41-14, FSU
David Visser– Editor
FSU’s struggles in Raleigh are well documented, as are Florida State’s defensive issues on third down this year. The Seminoles improved at getting off the field against Clemson, but Jacoby Brissett has been in place for the Wolfpack throughout this season, unlike the Tigers’ Deshaun Watson. Behind Brissett, NC State has been the best offensive team in the ACC on third down. Add to that FSU’s loss of Nile Lawrence-Stample for the season and Mario Edwards, Jr. for the game, and there is room for serious concern. However, the continuing emergence of Eddie Goldman, Chris Casher, and Demarcus Walker should continue, and I expect the ‘Noles to finally create some turnovers to gain separation as this one wears on.
Pick: 36-20, FSU
Daniel Ferreira– Staff Writer
Last week was a huge victory for this young Florida State team. The key now will be how it responds after a very emotional game. The ‘Noles get their unquestioned leader back in Jameis Winston, along with a revamped (maybe) offensive line. It could be the offense’s best game yet. The defensive side of the ball is where I’m concerned. FSU will be without Mario Edwards and Nile Lawrence-Stample. The second half against Clemson was a growing point for a young defense, and I expect that to continue this week. It may be close at the half, but I expect the ‘Noles to pull away.
Pick: 45-17, FSU
Harlen Shackleford– Staff Writer
NC State’s undemanding schedule thus far ends abruptly Saturday at 3:30 when the Florida State Seminoles take the field in Raleigh. Last year’s contest saw the ‘Noles deliver the knockout punch before the Wolfpack had even stepped into the ring, as FSU enjoyed a 35-0 lead through one quarter of play. Yes, this is not the same Florida State team as last year. Yes, the ‘Noles have yet assert their dominance on any team worth mentioning. Despite injuries to both Mario Edwards, Jr. and Mario Pender that will keep these two explosive players out of Saturday’s contest, fans can expect to see a very hungry FSU team that is more than ready to garner some respect nationally with a convincing win that will dismiss the notion of the Seminoles declining. This is not Georgia Southern, Old Dominion, or even South Florida, for that matter, coming to Carter-Finley Stadium Saturday. Look for the entire Florida State offense to have a dominant day Saturday. As Jimbo Fisher says “When this bus rolls into town, Hell comes with it.” FSU wins big.
Pick: 55-17, FSU
Griffin Wilcox– Staff Writer
If Florida State was ever in need of a statement win, this weekend vs. NC State is it. After a nail-biting victory last weekend, the continuous doubting of their ability to repeat as champs, and the return of QB Jameis Winston, the hype could not be higher for the ‘Noles. But do not underestimate NC State at home vs. the No. 1 Seminoles. NC State can score points, and FSU’s defense hasn’t necessarily been lockdown this year. I expect this game to be close until halftime, but if it remains close into the 4th quarter, this game could be interesting.
Pick: 38-21, FSU