FSU’s improvement in trenches makes ‘Noles a legit title contender

By Hays Carlyon

Presented by Woolsey Morcom

Florida State quarterback Jordan Travis might win the Heisman Trophy.

The redshirt senior leads a dynamic group of FSU playmakers.

However, the reason FSU might go from good to championship contender is the improvement coach Mike Norvell has led in the trenches.

FSU is a big, bad bully again on both sides.

That’s why FSU is now a prohibitive favorite to unseat Clemson as the Atlantic Coast Conference’s superior team. The Seminoles destroyed LSU 45-24 Sunday night in Orlando. Clemson was upset at Duke 28-7 the following evening.

Have fun, Dabo. FSU is going to pummel the Tigers in their own stadium in 18 days. Clemson has lost three of its last four games dating back to last season.

Few teams, if any, are going to be able to handle FSU along the lines of scrimmage.

LSU had a first-and-goal situation at FSU’s 1-yard line on its first possession. The ‘Noles drove the Tigers back and turned them over on downs. LSU went for it again later in the first half on fourth-and-1 at FSU’s 13. Again, the ‘Noles stopped the Tigers for a loss.

While the FSU defensive front was in command, the Seminoles’ offensive line was manhandling LSU. Travis accounted for 380 yards and five touchdowns. He was never sacked.

FSU was 9 of 14 on third down and converted on its lone fourth-down try.

The Seminoles have a bunch of impressive weapons. Receivers Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson might be the best duo in the country.

However, it’s the strides Florida State has made in the trenches that have enabled the Seminoles to embark on a potential national-title run.

Forming crystalized opinions after Week 1 is usually a mistake but the eye test tells you FSU is spectacular.

The ‘Noles are clearly the best team in the ACC and will be a sizable favorite over every team left on the schedule if they stay healthy.

(You can email Hays at [email protected] and follow him on X @HaysCarlyon)