FSU FOOTBALL
Florida State football did not have the season that it wanted in 2024, where it recorded a 2-10 record and left the fan base skeptical of the future. However, there seems to be new life as the Seminoles added recruits/transfers to the roster and six new assistant coaches.
The offense was abysmal for the Seminoles last year. There isn't an easier way to put that. It became difficult to even establish the line of scrimmage, where it recorded 89 rushing yards per game. Florida State looks to turn its fortunes as it acquired offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn and offensive line coach Herb Hand, who are known for their tendencies to run the football.
It seems like head football coach Mike Norvell wants to go back to their standard in 2022, with overpowering teams with the running game. While running back Trey Benson was amazing for the program, they have two new talented backs who are hungry for their opportunity in Ousmane Kromah and Gavin Sawchuk.
RICHIE LEONARD IV
Nonetheless, Florida State lived and died by the counter-running game in 2022, where it put a ton of pressure on the offensive guards to be successful when pulling. Guard Dillan Gibbons was a huge factor in what made the engine go with the offense. The former Notre Dame transfer was awarded First-Team All-ACC for his efforts.
While I am not saying that current offensive guard Richie Leonard IV will be a First-Team All-ACC award winner in 2025, I do believe that Florida State's coaching staff has a ton of faith in his abilities as a player (as evidenced by inviting him to ACC Kickoff). Even though the former Florida transfer hurt himself early in the year last season, he was still a vocal leader that the team needed.
If Florida State wants to be successful in running the football, Leonard IV and even center Luke Petitbon have to be in sync with each other. I am a huge fan of this running game being able to work in 2025, and I cannot wait to see it in action.