FSU football: 3 concerns from Seminoles' season-opening loss to Georgia Tech

LACK OF DOWNFIELD PRESENCE OFFENSIVELY

Florida State had to replace the likes of ultra-talented quarterback Jordan Travis who meant so much to the university. However, the Seminoles knew that they eventually had to find his replacement.

Florida State's coaching staff decided to add transfer quarterback DJ Uiagalelei this offseason. The former Clemson and Oregon State signal-caller had an up-and-down collegiate career. However, they knew that the quarterback room needed leadership from a veteran presence that has played a ton of snaps.

Uiagalelei's strength is throwing the football downfield. However, on Saturday, it did not seem like he was awarded the opportunity to do so as much as the play calling suggested that they wanted to establish the run. After the opening touchdown drive to begin the game, the running game became stagnant as the Yellow Jackets' defense started to stack the box.

You would think that would lead to more passing opportunities downfield. However, Uiagalelei completed 19 of his 27 passes for 193 yards with his longest pass being 21 yards to running back Lawrance Toafili.

I don't know if the coaching staff truly trusts Uiagalelei to command the offense, but the Boston College contest is coming right around the corner. I expect options such as wide receivers Malik Benson and Jalen Brown to get more involved as the season progresses.

While this loss is concerning, this football team has the opportunity to learn from this experience and grow in their skill sets.