FSU Football: Assessing every third down play for 'Noles defense

FSU Football: Assessing every third down play for ‘Noles defense

By Kelvin Hunt | Nov 5, 2017

TALLAHASSEE, FL - OCTOBER 21: Linebacker Matthew Thomas #6 of the Florida State Seminoles runs the ball downfield after recovering a fumble during their game against the Louisville Cardinals at Doak Campbell Stadium on October 21, 2017 in Tallahassee, Florida. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Duke

This was a game FSU should have dominated as Duke’s offense was struggling coming into this game. Duke actually surpassed their season average on yards per play against FSU with 5.08.

They allowed Duke to convert (5-13) third downs (38.4 percent) during the game, and allowed three plays (15, 12, 57) over 10 yards on third down. In other words, 60 percent of their third down conversions went for 10 yards or more.

Duke had 111 yards on 13 plays averaging 8.53 yards per play and averaged 7 yards to go on third downs for the game.

The Blue Devils are averaging 4.82 ypp going into week 10. They are also converting third downs at a 36.99 percent clip including the FSU football game.

So Duke surpassed their third down conversion season average against FSU. Again, it was more poor technique and communication by the FSU defense that allowed these plays to happen.

There’s a huge talent gap between these two teams and Duke shouldn’t have this type of success against a FSU team.

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