Florida State vs. South Florida: Game Grades, Analysis for Seminoles

Despite a nervous first half, Florida State broke through during the second to secure a 34-14 victory over in-state foe South Florida on Saturday afternoon at Doak Campbell Stadium. 

Star running back Dalvin Cook proved to be the game-changer many predicted, as he accounted for 266 yards and three touchdowns—including a tone-setting 74-yard score—setting the second highest mark in school history for rushing yards gained. 

	First Half	Second Half
Pass Offense	D	B-
Rush Offense	B+	A+
Pass Defense	B	B-
Rush Defense	B	B+
Special Teams	B	A
Coaching	C	A-

Pass Offense: After starting 1-for-9 for six yards in the first half, QB transfer Everett Golson took command in the second as he put together consistent drives. For the day, he finished 14-for-26 for 163 yards and a top-tier score, threading the needle through two defenders. The poor start, however, contributed to South Florida's early scare, as containing Golson proved easy and allowed the Bulls' confidence. 

Rush Offense: From Florida State's perspective, the rush attack saved this game for the Seminoles as Cook accounted for a large majority of the offense in both halves, putting together multiple rushes over 20 yards and allowing the offensive line to wear down the upstart defense throughout the game. 

"

This is a great run by Cook of #FSU but this shouldn't have been a touchdown. POOR tackling by the Bulls #USFvsFSU http://t.co/fXAcudNEfK

— Kyle Battle (@KayBeeSports) September 12, 2015"

Pass Defense: Outside of a few broken coverages, including one for the Bulls' second touchdown, the pass defense played relatively well, allowing 125 yards on 12-for-24 passing with one interception by USF's Flowers. On the whole, the defense as a unit played well, giving the offense continuous chances while even earning a crucial red-zone turnover in the first half. 

Rush Defense: Despite South Florida RB Marlon Mack's reputation, the "landshark" FSU defense diligently worked to contain the USF ground attack to just 149 yards and no scores on the day. Outside of a few broken tackles and the like, the defense forced USF outside of its comfort zone as it threw the ball downfield toward the talented FSU defensive backs. 

Special Teams: Unlike any other day, FSU kicker Roberto Aguayo was perfect with two field goals and multiple extra points. However, with the breaking of the ACC record for most consecutive extra points, Aguayo deserves some extra credit. Combined with a tone-setting 56-yard kickoff return to start the second half, the FSU special teams performed well above par for the win. 

"

Roberto Aguayo has now tied the ACC record with 160 consecutive extra points made.

— FSU Football (@FSU_Football) September 12, 2015"

Coaching: Even with the first half's disappointing play, head coach Jimbo Fisher and his staff performed on an unprecedented level in the second, resulting in a solid win against a quality in-state opponent. All credit goes to Fisher for creating the second half that allowed Florida State to pull away, but partial blame for the poor opening must fall into his lap as well.