What to Watch For: FSU vs. Wake Forest

RALEIGH, NC – SEPTEMBER 27: Jacoby Brissett #12 of the North Carolina State Wolfpack breaks free from DeMarcus Walker #44 of the Florida State Seminoles to throw a touchdown pass during the first quarter of their game at Carter-Finley Stadium on September 27, 2014 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

2.) Speaking of Tackles

What was the biggest issue FSU had last week? Probably tackling.

The Seminoles missed 33 tackles in Raleigh.

If that sounds absurdly high– it is. Jimbo Fisher said it was the most he could remember since he’s been a head coach. Tyler Hunter said he couldn’t remember being part of a team that missed that many tackles even in pee-wee league.

That’s why at the start of practice on Monday the defense was doing tackling drills. It was the first thing the team worked on this week. And with good reason. You just can’t expect to beat good teams when your defense cannot bring down the ball-carrier. Florida State has this weekend against Wake and next weekend against Syracuse before Notre Dame comes calling.

If the issues aren’t resolved by then– it could be big trouble.

So against Wake, watch FSU’s form, watch the angles the defenders take and watch how the players wrap up after impact. It’s possible — likely, even — that FSU’s defense will come out with a chip on its shoulder after last week. If so, it’s probably going to be a painful afternoon for the Demon Deacons.