The FSU defense was frustrating to watch at every level in 2024. However, the linebacker unit caught most of the venom from the fan base as early as the season opener against Georgia Tech.
Adam Fuller’s 4-2-5 defense, that was borderline elite in 2023, had linebackers shooting the wrong gaps, missing tackles, taking poor angles, and overall giving poor effort at times.
They didn’t get much help from the defensive linemen up front, especially on the edges. The linebacker unit slowly improved as the season progressed, and some players, like Omar Graham Jr., got healthy. However, new FSU defensive coordinator Tony White knew they needed more help if he had any dreams of implementing his 3-3-5 multiple stack.
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That meant FSU would go from primarily playing with two linebackers to three at any given time. FSU’s John Papuchis moved from coaching defensive ends under Fuller to linebackers under White. Papuchis had previously coached linebackers at North Carolina and Maryland. Papuchis spoke glowingly about the FSU linebacker unit, less than two weeks away from the Alabama game. He spoke about their depth after Monday’s practice, indicating they can play six different guys with confidence.
FSU hasn’t seen that type of linebacker depth in years. They’ll be counted on heavily to stop the run and, as part of the pass rush, to help take pressure off the defensive ends. Linebackers usually account for the bulk of the tackles in a Tony White defense, along with the safeties.
I’m excited to see these guys play for Tony White. They have a solid mix of players with different skillsets. They also have guys with a lot of football experience, which should pay dividends. They will be put to the test in week one against Alabama. If they can hold their own against that offensive line, the rest of the season should be bright!