FSU FOOTBALL
Florida State football got the much-needed victory this weekend over Wake Forest by a score of 42-7. This is a game that the Seminoles need to have, as head football coach Mike Norvell was having his job security criticized by the fan base.
Florida State has an overall record of 4-4, which is not ideal for the program that defeated Alabama in the season opener. This surprised individuals, as the Seminoles were considered to be potential College Football Playoff contenders after the game.
However, that idea had not come to fruition. We could say the same about the Clemson Tigers after they went to the College Football Playoff last season after defeating the SMU Mustangs.
INTO DEATH VALLEY
Death Valley doesn't seem to have the biggest presence anymore, as the Tigers have lost six straight Power Four opponents at home. Call it reverse psychology, but Florida State could be walking into a "wounded animal" situation with head football coach Dabo Swinney being talked about negatively by the media.
Clemson isn't used to the circumstances that they are facing, as quarterback Cade Klubnik was thought to be a potential Heisman Trophy winner. However, that bold claim went to bed after their season-opening loss to LSU.
The secondary hasn't been the reason for why the Seminoles have struggled, but the defense hasn't been ideal in Year 1 of Tony White. The 3-3-5 defensive scheme has been a roller coaster with defenders not being in the ideal spots at times.
However, against Wake Forest, Florida State's unit played loose and aggressive to get after the Demon Deacons. Quarterback Cade Klubnik returned from injury in the loss against Duke, where he completed 27 of his 36 passes for 385 yards and two touchdowns. The Seminoles cannot allow him to have easier throwing lanes.
This is where pass rusher James Williams has to find momentum after recording his first sack of the season against Wake Forest. Wide receiver Antonio Williams had ten receptions for 142 yards and one touchdown for Clemson. The Seminoles' secondary has to give a way to crush the spirit of the Tiger faithful at their home.