FSU DEFENSIVE TURNAROUND
Florida State added several new coaches to its staff after the disappointing 2024 campaign, where the Seminoles finished with a 2-10 record. This isn't the standard of a proud program that is used to competing for conference and national championships.
One of my favorite pickups is former Syracuse and Nebraska defensive coordinator Tony White. This isn't to say that I was not a fan of former assistant coach Adam Fuller. I personally love anyone who decides to wear the Garnet and Gold.
It is a business in college football, and Florida State has to do what it takes to get back in the conversation for the nation's elite. The Seminoles are projected to have an over/under win total of 6.5, according to DraftKings, but this is a team that expects more.
SHYHEIM BROWN BOUNCE BACK
The defense will have to be stout for the Seminoles to accomplish their goals this year. Coach White will have his work cut out for him as he is known for his multiple 3-3-5 defensive scheme that is supposed to provide unique looks for opposing offenses.
The former Cornhuskers defensive coordinator likes to use multiple defensive backs. Fans have heard Coach White address defensive back Earl Little Jr. as "Him" and Ja'Bril Rawls as "an NFL prospect".
However, where does that leave redshirt senior safety Shyheim Brown? The Lake City, Florida, native led Florida State in tackles (70) last year, but the lack of effort, which was observed by some of the fan base, made fans sell their stock in Brown's skill set.
It is encouraging that a version of the third-team All-ACC is in Brown, who recorded 53 tackles, two sacks, one interception, one fumble recovery, four pass breakups, and two quarterback hurries during the 2023 season. It is hard to play at an elite level when the 2024 Seminoles were not competitive. This is why I think that a bounce-back season is for him.
I know that there are talented options at the defensive back position, but I believe that the former three-star prospect will add his finishing touches for a defense that looks to be more aggressive under Coach White.