Christian Ponder, Florida State Seminoles Bounce Back Against BYU Cougars

After the Florida State Seminoles' embarrassing route out in Norman, Oklahoma, you would think the sky was surely falling if you talked to some Florida State fans. 

Jimbo isn't the answer, the defense will never get better, Christian Ponder is just average, and Bobby should have gotten his one more year. These were just a few of the ridiculous statements made by "cliff jumping" Seminole fans a week ago.

Head coach Jimbo Fisher and his players knew their loss was heavily criticized and got right to work in Tallahassee. Fisher described last week's practices as "quiet and business-like."

The team got down to business and it certainly paid off.

Florida State came out on Saturday and improved in every aspect of the game. 

The offense amounted 427 yards led by spectacular rushing performances put on by both Ty Jones and Chris Thompson.

Christian Ponder also bounced back with a solid performance, both on the ground and in the air as he completed his fifth touchdown pass of the season.

More impressively, the defense showed up and silenced its doubters.

Only allowing 191 total yards, the unit also racked up eight sacks and 10 tackles for a loss. That's miles better than the sorry attempt at a performance last week in Oklahoma.

Cornerback Greg Reid was under heavy criticism for his performance against the Sooners, and on his Facebook promised Seminole fans he would bounce back.

Bouncing back would be an understatement, as Reid dominated on the defensive side of the ball against the Cougars. Reid shut down the passing attack on his side of the field with several pass break-ups as well as six tackles.

The talented sophomore also currently leads the team in tackles with 20.

Now, with Wake Forest and Virginia on the horizon, the 'Noles can easily head into their rivalry showdown with the Miami Hurricanes with an impressive 4-1 record if they can just keep it together.

Florida State kicks off at home this coming Saturday at 3:30 against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. The game will be broadcast locally on ABC.