FSU Football: 5 major keys to success for 2024 season

Hooray! We are two months away from football season, and the Seminoles are ready to put in work. After an eventful 2023-2024 season, the Noles look to continue their success. Though the Noles have lost key players from last season to the NFL, this year's players are ready to step up and prove themselves in a competitive college atmosphere. The players from the transfer portal are also looking to make a statement. It is up to the Noles to determine the outcome of 2024-2025 with five keys to success.

5. Foot on the gas

Florida State must have the 'foot on the gas' approach in all games this year. While the Noles had that approach in mind in most games last season, there were a couple of games that could've been costly because of complacency and injuries to key players, particularly in the Miami and North Alabama games.

The third quarter was a struggle for the Noles last season offensively. For some reason, the offense slacked in the third quarter. Doing this allowed other teams to have a glimmer of hope to come back and win. Fortunately, our defense put an end to their hopes of defeating us. The third quarter is an area that needs to be fixed immediately, and Mike Norvell needs to address it before the season even begins.

Complacency is a recipe for disaster. For the Noles to measure up to their full potential, they need to get rid of the third quarter blues and play solid in all four quarters.

4. Capitalizing in the red zone

Red zone scoring has improved tremendously in the past couple years which is something that should continue for the Noles. Last season, the Noles did a terrific job capitalizing in the red zone. Jordan Travis understood the assignment in the red zone and took advantage of it. He always had a game plan to get the Noles in the end zone which is something FSU will miss this season. Hopefully, DJ Uiagalelei values red zone production just as much as Jordan Travis.

3. DJ Uiagalelei playing well

Much of the offensive and team success is dependent upon how well Uiagalelei plays. The experience and high-level play DJ Uiagalelei brings to the table should help in offensive success. The Hawaiian transfer looked solid during the Spring Showcase. He was very accurate and seemed to pick up Norvell's offensive scheme very well.

Norvell is one of the best quarterback development coaches in college football as he has helped shape Jordan Travis into the player he is today. Under Norvell's guidance, Uiagalelei has the potential to be great for the Noles. This season will ultimately determine whether he will play at the professional level or not. The pressure is on for the veteran transfer.

2. Offensive Line

The offensive line is another area that has improved in the last two seasons. The Noles have come from a weak offensive line to a strong one in just a few years. With many offensive lineman returning for the Noles this season, DJ Uiagalelei should expect excellent protection. Setting the tone for offensive success, the O-Line should be in great shape to get the offensive playmakers going.

1. Defense

Florida State's biggest strength last season was defense. Smash-mouth defense made the Noles a real contender. Defense won key games for the Noles especially the rivalry game against Florida and the ACC Championship against Louisville. From pressuring the backfield to competitive pass rush, this defense was on a whole other level.

Despite losing key defensive players to the NFL, the Noles still have plenty of talented defenders who can get the job done. This is the perfect opportunity for them to make a name for themselves. If Florida State wants to contend in the College Football Playoff, they need to have another strong defensive performance this season.