What to Watch For: FSU at NC State

Sep 6, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball for a touchdon as he is pressured by Citadel Bulldogs defensive lineman Mark Thomas (7) during the first half at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

2.) The RB Situation

Mario Pender will miss Saturday’s game after suffering a concussion. That means Karlos Williams will see a few more carries, Dalvin Cook will be a bigger part of the rotation and Ryan Green could see the field for the first time this year.

But beyond Pender’s absence, there’s a situation beginning to develop with FSU’s run game.

Part of the issue is the blocking. It’s been abysmal at points this year and the lanes just aren’t opening. But there have been moments when the lanes did open and Karlos Williams just didn’t seem to see them, either. Earlier today ESPN analyst Desmond Howard opined that Williams doesn’t have good enough instincts to be a great back. He has all the physical tools, sure, but Williams seems to miss cutback lanes and leaves yards on the field.

That’s something, Williams told us on Tuesday, that eats at him each week in the film room.

It’s also something that could cost him his job.

By all accounts Pender and Cook have exceptional instincts, they read blocks with a lot of patience and they have that special knack for finding space that can make a back special. Guys like Cam Erving and Josue Matias have raved about Cook, in particular.

With Pender out, if FSU’s run game struggles, Dalvin Cook could find himself in position to step up and make a case for more carries. Or Williams could find the magic he had last year when he ran for over 700 yards and 11 touchdowns on just 91 carries.

Either way, FSU’s run game has to improve and it’s not all on the line.