Florida State football will not begin its 2025 season until it takes on the Alabama Crimson Tide on Saturday, August 30th, in the newly renovated Doak Campbell Stadium. It might seem like a while from now until the Seminoles face off against the productive team, but it will be here before we know it.
Unfortunately, Florida State will not have its Spring Showcase this year since Doak Campbell Stadium since Doak Campbell Stadium is going through construction. It is a bummer since so many fans enjoy that aspect of seeing the squad every year in the preseason.
Media access has also been limited, so fans do not have information coming from third-party sources anymore. As a result, the coaches (such as head football coach Mike Norvell) give updates after practice about the team.
Norvell addressed the media after Florida State had its first padded spring practice. While the excitement will happen in August, this is where the hard work and dedication will come into play.
Norvell discussed the linebackers and made it a priority to mention that transfers Elijah Herring and Stefon Thompson made some good plays on Saturday where he felt their presence.
This is encouraging to see as Thompson has had familiarity with defensive coordinator Tony White where he played with him at Nebraska and Syracuse. The veteran has had 199 tackles (21 for loss), 10.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles during his five-year career. It would be amazing to see him excel this year for the Seminoles.
As for Herring, he is also another productive collegiate player who had stints with Tennessee and Memphis. The Newnan, Georgia native had 151 tackles (15 for loss), six sacks, two interceptions, six pass deflections, and two forced fumbles during his three-year playing career.
While I do not want to put pressure on both of these players, it reminds me heavily of former linebackers such as Kalen DeLoach and Tatum Bethune. It is encouraging to see both of them step up in practice.