FSU football: Why Noles in better position than you think as 2024 begins

Overall

I give more context on the how young and unproven the 2022 team was going into that season on the latest Built For Playmaker YouTube episode below. I think the offense has more proven or experienced players going into 2024 compared to going into 2022. DJ Uiagalelei should be in the same ballpark production-wise, as Jordan Travis was in 2022, or even better. The offensive line should be better with all of the experience and continuity returning. The tight-end group has more talent and potential overall than in 2022. The wide receiver group oozes potential and production and has more ways to attack with elite speed and overall talent. Running back production has never been an issue in a Mike Norvell offense.

Defensively, there's more proven production at the defensive end position than in 2022. The defensive tackle position has a higher ceiling and more depth than then. The linebackers are the biggest question, and it'll depend on what they do in the portal at that position. The secondary has more overall talent and experience than in 2022. That lesser-talented 2022 won 10 games. They were explosive on offense, didn't turn the ball over too much, and were efficient on third downs. However, they struggled in short-yardage situations and the red zone against great defenses. The defense struggled against the run when Fabien Lovett got hurt. The secondary gave up too many contested catches and had some blown coverages. I think FSU will be better in short-yardage situations in 2024.

I think the defensive front will be stout against the run, and the secondary should be good again. We won't know the final answers on this until we see who else they get from the portal. However, I'm comfortable saying this is a reload season, and FSU should be in the mix for another ACC Championship. Will they go 13-0? I doubt it, but they should be somewhere between the 2022-23 teams.