FSU football: Does Mike Norvell value offense more than defense?
By Kelvin Hunt
![RALEIGH, NC - OCTOBER 08: Head coach Mike Norvell of the Florida State Seminoles speaks with Jordan Travis #13 during the first half of their game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Carter-Finley Stadium on October 8, 2022 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) RALEIGH, NC - OCTOBER 08: Head coach Mike Norvell of the Florida State Seminoles speaks with Jordan Travis #13 during the first half of their game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Carter-Finley Stadium on October 8, 2022 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/fba93bb3c88637bc423b46cb25c842d36071a5cfdc7b1c68ae52e18717e8ef92.jpg)
Keon Coleman vs. Jalen Key Recruitment
The recruitment of receiver Keon Coleman and safety Jalen Key isn’t one I’d use to support the narrative that Mike Norvell values offense more than defense.
That situation boiled down to which player could improve the team the most. That’s Keon Coleman because he’ll be a starter in 2023, whereas Jalen Key probably would have been in a backup role.
One way to look at it would be how many first downs gained, or touchdowns scored would Keon Coleman bring to the team compared to how many touchdowns Jalen Safety would have prevented.
Jammie Robinson led FSU in tackles the last two years, but I’m not sure that would be the case even if he were on the team in 2023.
The improved defensive line talent and depth, coupled with the returning linebacker experience, likely means there will not be as many plays as a safety.
However, Mike Norvell can dictate how many balls go to Keon Coleman in the offense. It’s smart to spend resources on players who score in these situations.