FSU football: Game analysis/score predictions for FSU-LSU matchup

FSU football is preparing for its fourth season under head coach Mike Norvell.

It has been a long and grueling journey to get the Seminoles back to where they are today. The Noles have gone from losing to FCS opponent Jacksonville State in dramatic fashion to securing their 25th 10-win season in program history.

The Seminoles prepare to take on the LSU Tigers in their 2023 season opener this Sunday in Orlando, Florida.

The college football media has classified Florida State as a serious contender to make the College Football Playoff. But, as star quarterback Jordan Travis and company have explained about their heightened expectations, they have to control what they can control.

The first step is taking care of business against the Tigers, who are led by veteran quarterback Jayden Daniels. It will be vitally important to generate a spy on the dynamic athlete, and force Daniels to be one-dimensional. Given the running back-by-committee approach with the offense, will this allow FSU’s defense to pin their ears back with productive defensive ends Jared Verse and Patrick Payton.

Second-year head football coach Brian Kelly is looking to get revenge from last year’s matchup that saw FSU defensive back Shyheim Brown blocking the game-tying extra point attempt to give the Seminoles a 24-23 victory.

Florida State will have the luxury of not worrying about LSU star defensive tackle Maason Smith, who is suspended for the game after he received an improper benefit from a 2021 autograph signing. This situation is absolutely massive for the potential of success with running back Trey Benson, who only had six carries for 15 yards against them last season.

However, Seminole fans can’t get too comfortable with the Tigers having superstar linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. in the middle of their defense. FSU only saw eleven snaps from the talented defender in the last meeting.

Florida State’s offense has their dynamic wide receiver duo with 6’7” Johnny Wilson and 6’4” Keon Coleman, which could cause a matchup nightmare for LSU’s starting cornerbacks Duce Chestnut and Zy Alexander, who are listed at 5’11” and 6’2” respectively.

This matchup could be a fun one to monitor in the bright lights of Orlando, Florida. Hopefully, it leads to a Seminoles victory.

CHOP CHAT STAFF SCORE PREDICTIONS

• Taylor Devers: 38-34 FSU
• Kelvin Hunt: 34-27 FSU
• Jason Zang: 31-20 FSU
• Nick Andre: 28-21 FSU