3 players on the Seminoles' defense that can set the tone against Pittsburgh

These players need to make their presence known.
Sep 26, 2025; Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; Virginia Cavaliers quarterback Chandler Morris (4) passes the ball as Florida State Seminoles defensive lineman Darrell Jackson Jr. (6) chases in the first overtime period at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Sep 26, 2025; Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; Virginia Cavaliers quarterback Chandler Morris (4) passes the ball as Florida State Seminoles defensive lineman Darrell Jackson Jr. (6) chases in the first overtime period at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
4 of 4

CB JA'BRIL RAWLS

Always College Football's Greg McElroy mentioned that a big question mark for the Florida Seminoles was on their secondary. This was something that McElroy just wanted to dislike the Seminoles, to find a way to dislike them.

However, the harsh reality is that he might have been right, as the defensive backfield has been underwhelming lately. Transfer Jerry Wilson had a deflection that should have been a pick-six, which could have created a Florida State 28-14 lead in the second quarter. Instead, that result ended with a 21-21 halftime score.

This is a situation where defensive back coaches Patrick Surtain Sr. and Evan Cooper have to look at themselves in the mirror to see what is going on. However, redshirt sophomore cornerback Ja'Bril Rawls has been balling out. The fan base didn't know what to expect as Coach White referred to the Pensacola native as an "NFL prospect".

This was a player in the secondary against the Hurricanes who played with a ton of energy out in the flats. Nonetheless, Rawls has to be a productive piece if Florida State wants to win.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations