What to Watch For: FSU vs. Notre Dame

Oct 11, 2014; Syracuse, NY, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) drops back to pass against the Syracuse Orange during the third quarter at the Carrier Dome. Florida State defeated Syracuse 38-20. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

5.) The Hype Level

FSU is going to be hyped for this one– how can it not be? The crowd is going to be raucous. The whole world will be watching. And the Seminoles — despite their claims to the contrary — are pissed off about getting dropped in the polls. Last year FSU found itself in the role of usurper — the hot team that started down a ways in the polls — and the Seminoles were told to wait their turn; wait until defending national champion Alabama lost. This year, the same standard was not applied. That equates to disrespect and FSU is acutely aware of that.

Make no mistake about it, FSU will come out amped.

But that’s a double-edged sword– you can be too up for the start of a game. That typically causes a team to try a little too hard– to force things. That’s how turnovers happen, how coverages bust and how players end up out of their gaps and wind up allowing chunk yardage on run plays.

It’s going to be absolutely vital on Saturday that Florida State keep it under control. Harness the energy, use it, but don’t let it control you. FSU is no stranger to this kind of atmosphere, Terrance Smith reminded a reporter that less than a year ago most of these guys were suiting up for the BCS Championship game. This is a big stage– but definitely not the biggest FSU has played on.

As long as FSU remembers that and keeps an even keel it will be fine.