FSU football: Takeaways from depth chart for UMASS game

Final Thoughts

One of the biggest issues that hampered the Noles at multiple positions in the first six games was injuries. I said I liked the starters before the season, but it was the lack of depth that was a big concern.

The injuries made it difficult for the coaches to establish continuity among different units, and we saw that play out in the secondary. However, the defense looked better coordinated in their last game against North Carolina.

There were still too many missed tackles, and North Carolina receivers dropped some passes that helped. The UMASS offense is putrid, averaging 4.7 yards per play and completing 51 percent of their passes.

They only average 3.4 yards per rush. If there was ever a game the defense should dominate, it’s this one. The UMASS offense allowed an average of 41 points per game. The only game they have allowed fewer than 45 points was their lone win in their last outing against UCONN.

I’m not worried about a Jacksonville State letdown as I don’t believe Mike Norvell will allow something like that to happen again.

However, I’m looking for the team to impose their will early, with the mindset of allowing the younger players to play as much as possible.

If I see that, I’ll feel confident this team can continue to build on the foundation they’re laying.