Florida State Football: 5 Reasons Why the 'Noles Will Win out

After two wins against overmatched opponents to open the season, the ‘Noles dropped three straight games to teams who are a combined 19-3 this season.  

A pair of 41-16 wins over Duke and Maryland followed consecutive road losses to Clemson and Wake Forest by the same score of 35-30.  

Along the way, fans of the ‘Noles have seen glimpses of the team many thought would be a national championship contender.  

With some key contributors finally getting healthy and a pair of dominant performances in their rear view mirror, those snapshots are starting form a clearer picture of the team they want to be.  

Here are five reasons why FSU will win out:

5. Defense Becoming Dominant

Even after losing to then No. 1 Oklahoma last month, the Seminoles defense was viewed as one of the best in the nation after frustrating Sooners quarterback Landry Jones into a sub par performance. 

After a pair of disappointing performances against Clemson and Wake Forest, the ‘Noles defense lost a bit of its luster. 

A closer look would indicate that they contributed as much to their own demise in those contests, with costly penalties sealing their fate in close losses.  

They got back to their dominant ways the last two weeks, and halfway into the season, FSU ranks sixth in the nation in rush defense and is tied for fourth in the country with 25 sacks.   

If they maintain that type of production, the Seminoles will be tough to beat going forward.  

4. Limiting Mistakes

Turnovers and penalties contributed heavily to the Seminoles three-game losing streak earlier this season.  

In their last two wins, the Seminoles have turned it over only twice and have averaged only 57.5 yards in penalties, which is an improvement in comparison to their 100-plus yard average in that department during their losing streak.  

Simply put, the Seminoles are a different team when they don’t shoot themselves in the foot. 

3. Youth Movement

For a team entering the season with 17 starters returning from a successful 10-4 season, members of Florida State’s ballyhooed 2011 recruiting class figured to bide its time before making significant contributions. 

So much for that line of thinking. 

After seven games, Florida State’s leaders in touchdowns scored, receiving and rushing yards are all marks held by true freshmen. 

Among the true freshmen making major contributions are receiver Rashad Greene, running back Devonta Freeman, tight end Nick O’ Leary, offensive lineman Bobby Hart and defensive tackle Timmy Jernigan.   

It is safe to say that the youngsters are coming of age in a hurry, and the future looks bright in Tallahassee.  

2. Healthy QB

When quarterback EJ Manuel went down with a shoulder injury in the second half of the Oklahoma game, backup Clint Trickett filled in and did an admirable job in the remainder of that game and FSU's loss at Clemson.

After replacing an ineffective Trickett late in the first half at Wake Forest, Manuel and the offense have scored 98 points in their last 10 quarters of football. 

More importantly, the Seminoles have found a ground game with over 200 yards rushing in each of their last two wins. 

The threat of Manuel running has opened up rushing lanes for the ‘Noles running backs, and it's no coincidence that Fisher’s offense has found its balance since Manuel's return.   

1. Favorable Schedule

The Seminoles finally look to be clicking on all cylinders heading into November, and considering the teams left on their schedule, the Seminoles should be favored in every remaining game. 

Four of their five remaining opponents currently sport 4-3 records, and their annual Thursday nightmare road game will come next Thursday against a 1-6 Boston College squad. 

Aside from traveling to Chestnut Hill, their only other road contest is their season finale at in-state rival Florida.

Their Nov. 12 matchup with Miami looks like their toughest remaining home game. 

Still, the Seminoles look poised to go on a run and turn their season into a tale of two halves. 

While the first half was a disappointment, the pieces are in place for the ‘Noles to redeem themselves with a second-half triumph.