FSU football: Why Noles get back on track against Pittsburgh

Nov 16, 2019; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jordan Travis (13) runs the ball during the second half against the Alabama State Hornets at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 16, 2019; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jordan Travis (13) runs the ball during the second half against the Alabama State Hornets at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports /
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Pittsburgh doesn’t feature an explosive offense, and they only average 4.90 yards per play. Their running game isn’t special as they only average 2.83 yards per carry.

Florida State Seminoles Football
Florida State Seminoles Football /

Florida State Seminoles Football

Joey Yellen is completing 44 percent of his passes with one touchdown and three interceptions. As I mentioned, he isn’t a big threat to run, which means the Noles can put more emphasis on stopping their run game.

I should point out the two defenses Yellen has faced (Miami and Notre Dame) are better than what FSU football brings to the table.

Pittsburgh is also coming off a bye week, so they have had ample time to prepare for the Noles as well.

The challenge for the FSU offense is, they are going to have to find a way to move the ball in unconventional ways.

Jordan Travis is likely going to have to complete some passes on first down and will need to be a bigger part in the run game if he’s healthy. Tamorrion Terry would be a huge addition to the offense if he’s healthy enough to play too.

The FSU wide receivers are going to have to win one-on-one matchups and catch the ball instead of dropping passes.

Pittsburgh’s defense is excellent at getting teams off schedule with tackles for loss. In the event the Noles are forced to punt, Alex Mastramanno will be critical in helping the Noles flip field position. If the Noles get into the red zone, they have to come away with touchdowns instead of kicking and missing field goals.