FSU football: The defense has to continue to showcase improvement in 2024

Florida State lost to Clemson by a score of 29-13 on Saturday night in Doak Campbell Stadium. The team showcased a level of fighting through moments of adversity. However, the Tigers overmatched the Seminoles as they combined to have 500 total yards of offense (compared to FSU's 250).

The game probably shouldn't have been as close as it was. Clemson even jumped out to an early 17-0 lead, which had individuals worried that it could be a blowout and the team would quit. However, Florida State kept fighting and clawing for every thing that they had.

While the defense only allowed Clemson to convert six of their 15 third-down conversions, the Tigers were able to run the football with ease, where they accumulated 265 rushing yards. It became apparent that the Seminoles' defensive unit did not have an answer for Clemson's offense.

It is worth mentioning that Florida State tightened up when Clemson entered the red zone, where they forced seven field goal attempts (two of them were blocked). Nonetheless, the Seminoles were only able to generate one sack and five tackles for loss, where it looked like quarterback Cade Klubnik had some easier throwing opportunities.

It was even more concerning that the Seminoles' defense did not force a turnover. Florida State has struggled to come up and force opponents to turn the football over, where they rank 121st in the FBS with six forced turnovers in six games (not good).

I believe that this defensive coaching staff can turn this defense around. They are a serviceable unit. However, I know that they can be better with the talented pieces that they have on the field such as defensive end Patrick Payton, defensive tackle Joshua Farmer, cornerback Azareye'h Thomas, and safety Shyheim Brown.

Luckily for the Seminoles, they have a bye week to look at the film.