FSU football: Why advanced metrics like FSU in 2022
By Kelvin Hunt
FSU football needs a strong 2022 season to show a progression from the mediocrity displayed on the field and the recruiting trail.
The 2022 schedule seems manageable for a team that won five of their last eight games, with chances to win all three games. More evidence supporting a better 2022 FSU season stems from Bill Connelly’s 2022 SP+ Preseason Rankings.
Connelly’s formula includes recruiting rankings, returning production, and the team’s performance over the last few years.
Of course, FSU was awful from 2018 through 2020 but saw significant improvement in 2021, despite the wins and losses record not reflecting the total picture. I know wins and losses are the only things that matter in the grand scheme, but FSU had three losses by three points in 2021.
The Clemson loss was a 10-point loss, but that’s because of the fluke special teams touchdown at the end of the game. The loss against NC State was with half the team missing due to the flu, which included Jordan Travis not playing.
Then I have to include the Jacksonville State loss, which I put firmly on the coaches. When you look at it this way, there are valid reasons for optimism in 2022. Connelly checks FSU football in at No. 24 in his advanced rankings.
Why is that the case when they have only won eight games over the past two years?