DB EARL LITTLE JR.
This is a situation where it starts and finishes with defensive back Earl Little Jr. Defensive coordinator Tony White referred to Little Jr. as "Him". This is sky-high expectations for the former Alabama transfer, who didn't do much last season.
It benefited the redshirt junior in switching from cornerback to safety midway through last year. Earl Little Jr. played out of his mind against his former team in the Crimson Tide for the opener. That was to be expected, as the defensive back played with a sense of aggression.
Ever since Little Jr. played the Alabama game, he has not looked like the same contributor at the ROVER position. He performed with a controlled sense of urgency and physicality that this defense has missed. The defensive back is the leading tackler on the roster so far, with 40 total tackles and two interceptions.
If Florida State wants to have a successful back half of the 2025 season, it would be wise to have Little Jr. involved heavily with the defense.