CB AZAREYE'H THOMAS
Florida State's defensive backs have played relatively well this season with pieces such as Azareye'h Thomas, Fentrell Cypress II, Kevin Knowles II, Shyheim Brown, and KJ Kirkland.
I understand that the Seminoles have struggled this year in run support. However, defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr. has coordinated a unit that has created many pass deflections. Hopefully, this is the moment that the defense forces takeaways.
Florida State has only forced three takeaways in seven games this season. That isn't good... With that being said, the Seminoles still have an opportunity to turn the trend in a positive direction versus their arch-rival.
I believe that Florida State has one of the better cornerbacks in the conference in junior defensive back Azareye'h Thomas. Thomas has had to come up and tackle more this season, where he has accumulated 31 total tackles (more than the 29 he had all of last year) and only two pass deflections (he had ten in 2023).
Overall, I think Miami will want to try and embarrass Florida State on their home turf, which might require Cameron Ward to throw the football at an elevated rate. Azareye'h Thomas will have to be a key factor in limiting explosive plays and being in the right position.