FSU football: 5 reasons to be excited about 2021 season
By Kelvin Hunt
Mike Norvell’s Offense
The FSU offense struggled every year since the 2016 season when they finished top 5 in SP+ advanced metrics.
The 2017 season woes hinged on Jimbo Fisher having to start a true freshman quarterback. The 2018 season saw continued poor QB play from Deondre Francois in Willie Taggart’s first year.
Not to mention, the offensive play-calling left a lot to be desired and turned the ball over 26 times that season.
The 2019 season brought hope with new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, but the success was short-lived once the team began using a two-quarterback system.
As I’ve mentioned, the 2020 season forced Mike Norvell to implement a new offense with no spring camp and a limited offseason.
The poor performance at quarterback was there early on and things didn’t begin looking up until Jordan Travis replaced James Blackman.
The offense was still limited, but we could at least see glimpses of what’s possible in a few games.
The good news is Mike Norvell and Kenny Dillingham have proven their offense is among the best in college football when they have time to get the offense installed.
What’s crazy is the 2020 offense wasn’t THAT much worse than the 2019 offense. They averaged 2.1 fewer points and .30 yards less per play. They were just as good on third downs and ran the ball better, even when you take away the numbers Jordan Travis helped inflate with his legs.
With a full offseason, better QB play, and improved offensive line? If the wide receivers can step their game up? We could see things looking up on that side of the ball.