Florida State is playing Virginia Tech this Saturday at 7:30 PM EST in the confines of Doak Campbell Stadium on the ACC Network. This is a situation where I don't know what to expect from the home crowd, given that the Seminoles have lost five of their last six games.
However, it is Senior Night in Tallahassee and these players deserve some recognition for their accomplishments. Players such as Caziah Holmes, Markeston Douglas, Jaden Jones, Darrell Jackson Jr., Shyheim Brown, Mason Arnold and others have put in multiple years with the Seminoles.
The Hokies are also 3-6 on the year and have already fired their head football coach (have been rumored to show interest in former Penn State coach James Franklin, per multiple reports).
FSU NEEDS EXCITEMENT
The truth of the matter is that Florida State football needs excitement. Much like the Wake Forest contest, the fans want something to cheer about. The game ended up being a 42-7 victory for the Seminoles at home, but it wasn't easy in the first quarter.
It was tied at 0 at the end of the first quarter, but Florida State eventually scored a touchdown early in the second quarter to settle into a 14-0 halftime lead.
It would be nice to see the Seminoles get the football to start the game and drive down the field and put the pressure on the opposing team. There have been too many times this year when the defense has given up a multiple play opening drive to give the opponent a touchdown to begin.
This result forces quarterback Thomas Castellanos and the offense to put points on the scoreboard to respond. If they go three-and-out, it could easily elevate to a two possession game, then the Seminoles could be in a dog fight with a Virginia Tech team that is a 13.5-point underdog (per DraftKings Sportsbook).
Head football coach Mike Norvell and offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn have to emphasize to the offense how important it is to put their foot on the gas pedal. The Seminoles led by a score of 22-0 at the first quarter in the 2023 matchup against the Hokies. This could be a repeat result if Florida State decides to play inspired.