FSU football: Noles’ defense did not allow passing TD in October

FSU football has had a successful 2023 campaign where they have defeated the likes of LSU, Clemson, Duke, among others.

This seems to be a statement year for head football coach Mike Norvell and company.

While the defensive unit has not been considered a perfect product, the Seminoles have had their fair share of successes. One eye-opening statistic includes the fact that Florida State’s defense have not allowed a passing touchdown in the month of October.

The Seminoles have played Virginia Tech, Syracuse, Duke, and Wake Forest this month. While some of these football teams have deficiencies in the passing game, it is still quite impressive that they have not allowed any passing touchdowns, even in garbage time.

Fans understood the importance of acquiring defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr. this offseason. While some individuals were most excited about his recruiting prowess, his position unit has more than lived up to their billing.

The Seminoles rank No. 19 in the FBS where they only allow 185.9 passing yards per game. Redshirt senior cornerbacks Renardo Green and Jarrian Jones have continued their successes from a season ago, while junior cornerback transfer Fentrell Cypress II has come into his own the last couple of weeks.

At the safety position, the coaching staff understands what they have in redshirt senior Akeem Dent, but redshirt sophomore Shyheim Brown has elevated his play with going from a reserve to a starter.

Florida State has recorded five interceptions through eight games this season. While that number might not suggest much, the defensive backs have been in good positions to play (for the majority of the time).

A variety of coaches, including defensive coordinator Adam Fuller, spoke to the media on Monday afternoon and stated how that the communication within the defense has gotten much better.

When everyone is on the right page, it makes it easier for the defensive backs to go out there and make plays. The Seminoles have to play Pittsburgh, Miami, North Alabama, and Florida to close out the regular season, and fans could see the pass defense continue to blossom in the month of November.