Florida State defensive coordinator Adam Fuller came to the Noles with Coach Mike Norvell at the end of 2019, before that Fuller was the defensive coordinator under Norvell at Memphis.
There were many reservations about Fuller as the fans thought he lacked the experience needed.
Adam Fuller Coaching Record:
2020-Present Florida State (Defensive Coordinator)
2019Â Memphis (Defensive Coordinator)
2018Â Marshall (Defensive Coordinator/Safeties)
2013-2017Â Marshall (Ass. HC/Defensive Line/Special Teams)
2009-2012Â Chattanooga (Defensive Coordinator)
2008Â Assumption (Head Coach)
2006-2007Â Richmond (Special Teams/Linebackers)
2005Â Richmond (Defensive Backs)
1999-2004Â Wagner (Co-Defensive Coordinator)
1998Â WPI (Linebackers)
I think after last season he is starting to show he has what it takes to bring a top defensive unit to Florida State. That is something the program has lacked since Mark Stoops was here. Recruiting has picked up, and talent is currently flocking to FSU, as Fuller’s defense showed last season that recruits can thrive in this defense.
You can also look at guys like Joshua Farmer, Patrick Payton, and Kalen DeLoach, who have taken the next step in their development. It will be fun to see what he can do with guys like Braden Fiske, Gilber Edmond, and Fentrell Cypress.
Looking back at the defensive improvement under Coach Fuller, you will see a consistent theme.
2020
Pts/G: 36
Yds/G: 450.4
Total Pts Allowed: 324
2021
Pts/G: 26.5
Yds/G: 364.8
Total Pts Allowed: 318 (three more games played than 2020)
2022
Pts/G: 20.6 (#21)
Yds/G: 302.6 (#16)
Total Pts Allowed: 268 (#24)
Final Thoughts
If you compare the three seasons that Adam Fuller has been at Florida State, one thing that jumps out is consistent improvement. Florida State was a top-25 defense last season, and that is a great accomplishment from the past six-plus years.
When Jimbo Fisher left, the roster lacked top-tier talent. We all know the Taggart era and want to forget that because the talent level decreased even more. However, the way Coach Norvell and his staff are so tight and the culture they created, it is hard not to be excited about the future of this team.