FSU football: Grading our top 10 BOLD predictions for 2022 season
By Kelvin Hunt
FSU defense will hold opposing offenses to 4.8 yards per play or less
Here’s what I said:
"Adam Fuller’s defense allowed opposing offenses to average a whopping 6.47 ypp win 2020 without facing two of the better offenses on the schedule that season. I’ve talked about it countless times, but Fuller was in a no-win situation. I think we saw he’s a competent defensive coordinator last season when there’s time to prepare. We saw a significant improvement, with opposing offenses averaging 5.19 ypp. The number was lower than that over the final eight games. Where does the FSU defense go in 2022 with talented players, experience, and leadership returning at every level? Other than one of the defensive end positions, I think this defense is on par or better than last year. They certainly have better depth. FSU will also play a few teams with new offensive coordinators, so there are opportunities to catch those teams operating a less than optimal levels. The linebacker play will be key as they should be better in coverage, which likely improves their ability to get off the field on third down. Due to all of these factors, I’m projecting the defense to allow 4.8 ypp or less."
My prediction equated to a near eight percent decrease over the final number in 2021. Adam Fuller and the defense have met that goal, allowing 4.73 yards per plan through 12 games. That number ties for No. 11 nationally.
FSU dominated the lesser offenses on the schedule and kept the better offenses near or below their seasonal averages. The defense was good enough that the FSU offense outgained every opposing offense on a yards per play basis in 2022.