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FSU Football: Blackman and Akers give fans hope for the future

By Justin Russell

WINSTON SALEM, NC - SEPTEMBER 30: James Blackman #1 of the Florida State Seminoles drops back to pass against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons during their game at BB&T Field on September 30, 2017 in Winston Salem, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
WINSTON SALEM, NC - SEPTEMBER 30: James Blackman #1 of the Florida State Seminoles drops back to pass against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons during their game at BB&T Field on September 30, 2017 in Winston Salem, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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James Blackman and Cam Akers give FSU football fans hope for the future – in the midst of one of the more disappointing seasons in recent memory.

Florida State is 1-3 overall and 1-2 in the ACC. FSU football‘s leading passer and rusher in last Saturday’s loss to the Miami Hurricanes were both true freshman. Quarterback James Blackman and running back Cam Akers both had the best games of their young careers.

If they continue on the path they’re currently on, they have the potential to be one of the best quarterback/running back tandems in the country.

The Evolution of James Blackman

Blackman threw for 203 yards and two touchdowns against Miami. His completion percentage also jumped up to 60% this past weekend after completing just over half his passes against Wake Forest.

Blackman was forced into action after sophomore Deondre Francois went out with a knee injury in their loss to Alabama. The three star prospect from Belle Glades, Florida is getting better and gaining confidence with every snap. Blackman’s late game heroics helped FSU football take the lead against the Hurricanes with a little over a minute left.

It seems as though Jimbo calls the game conservatively to help Blackman be successful – but when he’s forced to air it out in late game scenarios, he shows the ability to make every throw. He also threw a game winning touchdown pass two weeks ago against Wake Forest.

Blackman will likely return to the bench next season when Francois is healthy again. The experience he is gaining this season is priceless. If the young quarterback continues to develop, he may force the coaching staff to give him some snaps next season.

Cam Akers

Coach Fisher took some criticism early in the year for not giving Cam Akers more carries. Akers carried the ball 20 times against Miami. It was double the number of touches he got opening week against Alabama. His rushing total has also gone up every week.

The freshman running back came into the season with lofty expectations. He is the most decorated recruit in Florida State history. Last Saturday we got a glimpse of just how good he can be.

Next: Cam Akers shows he is ready for big time football

This season will probably not be one to remember for FSU football fans. One thing fans will look back on fondly is the genesis of a new era in Florida State football.

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