FSU football: Oddsmakers have Noles and Panthers as a toss up

FSU football has a critical matchup against the Pittsburgh Panthers Saturday afternoon. Oddsmakers think this one will be close.

FSU football has had the last week to hear about how poorly they played against Louisville in their last outing. The Noles were five-point underdogs and lost the game 48-16.

The loss was embarrassing and couldn’t have come at a worse time, with the Noles beating North Carolina the week before who was ranked No. 5.

However, North Carolina lost to Virginia Saturday, so it’s safe to say that win doesn’t look nearly as impressive anymore.

Both teams are coming off a bye week with quarterbacks that are hurt. It’s not clear if Pittsburgh starting QB Kenny Pickett will play, but if he doesn’t, it should give the FSU defense an edge.

Freshman Joey Yellen hasn’t been impressive and isn’t a threat to run like most of the quarterbacks FSU faced through the first six games. He’s completing 44 percent of his passes this season with one touchdown and three interceptions.

Oddsmakers have this game as a pick’em at the moment, even though it’s a home game for the Noles.

It’ll be interesting to see how the line moves if it’s announced Kenny Pickett can play. He’s a senior who’s more of a threat to run, which has given the ‘Noles defense fits all season.

I wrote a few days ago the FSU defense has to show some life after having two weeks to prepare for one opponent. The COVID-19 missing spring practices narrative can only hold weight for so long.

They’ve had two scrimmages, six games, and weeks of practice since fall camp. I know it’s a new defense, but it’s not the first time these players have walked onto a football field. It’s not like Pittsburgh is a great offensive team.

They’re averaging 4.90 yards per play and less than three yards per rush. If they can’t keep this offense in check, especially if Pickett doesn’t play, I think we have to start asking real questions about Adam Fuller’s future.