Breaking Down the Florida State Spring Showcase

Watching the Seminoles Spring Showcase initially left me with mixed feelings, as it often does when evaluating my team. This is why it's essential to revisit games and thoroughly analyze what transpired. At first glance, FSU's quarterback, DJ Uiagalelei (DJU), didn't seem particularly impressive, but our initial perceptions can sometimes be misleading.

The Quarterback

The quarterback position will be crucial for FSU, just as it is for many other teams. For the Seminoles, it's particularly significant because of the talent they have in other areas. Let's examine DJU's performance in the spring game. He completed 13 of 29 passes for 184 yards. While these numbers may not be striking at first glance, a closer look at the film reveals several dropped passes, including a perfectly thrown ball for a touchdown under pressure.

During the game, there were two particularly difficult passes by DJU. One should have been intercepted, and the other was a routine throw on a rollout that DJU needs to make every time.

Throughout the game, DJU demonstrated his powerful arm, high-level pocket presence, and made smart decisions in critical moments. DJU's skill set is quite different from Jordan Travis's, which allows the Seminoles to diversify their offensive strategies. For instance, DJU's arm strength enables them to employ max protection, run three-man routes, and push the ball vertically—something that wasn’t Travis’s strong suit but is a significant part of DJU’s game. Below is a prime example of max protection, where DJU delivers an absolute laser on a Y-cross route.

Due to DJU’s size and arm strength, he excels at sitting in the pocket more effectively than his predecessor. This isn’t to say that Jordan Travis wasn’t great, but rather to highlight the differences in their abilities. Below is a prime example of DJU staying in the pocket, drifting, and delivering an impressive off-platform throw on 3rd and long.

DJU also did a great job of recognizing pressure and taking what the defense gave him in those situations.

After watching the Spring Showcase a second and third time, I’m much more optimistic about DJU's potential to lead this team. While his performance may not have been championship-caliber just yet, it’s a promising starting point that indicates he’s ready to lead the Seminole offense in 2024.

Offensive Weapons

I could go on all day about the offensive weapons at FSU that excite me. First and foremost, the two transfers from Alabama are particularly thrilling. Malik Benson showed explosive potential at the receiver position and could be the next transfer receiver to shine at FSU.

The other Alabama transfer, Roydell Williams looks like he’s ready to fill Trey Benson’s shoes immediately. Check out the patience and vision by Williams on this touchdown run.

Roydell joins a talented group in the Noles' backfield, which includes Lawrance Toafili, Micahi Danzy, Caziah Holmes, Samuel Singleton Jr., and Jaylin Lucas. And speaking of Lucas, he is incredibly fast!

The receiving corps is the biggest concern, as they had a handful of drops. Despite their immense talent, they need to elevate their game this year. Last season, it was evident that there was a significant drop-off without Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson. It's time for young players like Hykeem Williams and Destyn Hill to step up and fill the void.

Offensive Line

The offensive line is the most veteran group for the Seminoles, anchored by four seniors and a junior. They demonstrated their ability to protect DJU against a top-tier defensive line and continue to excel at blocking counter.

Defensive Line

This unit lost two key players to the NFL in Verse and Fiske, but they might be deeper than ever across the defensive line. Patrick Peyton is an elite edge rusher, joined by UGA transfer Marvin Jones Jr. Both are disruptive forces in the backfield, and Jones Jr. even dropped into coverage on a simulated pressure early in the spring game.

I’m not going to go too in depth into the defensive line on analysis, but let’s just say I’m very excited about this group in 2024.

Linebackers

The linebacking corps is the one group that remains a question mark for the Noles. Their ability to read blocks is inconsistent. The core consists of DJ Lundy, Auburn transfer Cam Riley, and sophomore Blake Nichelson. (I don’t believe Cam Riley played in the spring game.) Hopefully, this unit will make significant strides during fall camp and become a valuable asset to the defense.

Defensive Backs

While the defensive line is undoubtedly the strongest unit on this defense, the defensive backs will be exciting to watch as they develop. There is a wealth of young talent at corner and safety. With almost everyone except Cypress and Brown being underclassmen, the potential is thrilling. These young players just need to grow into their roles as starters. FSU plays a lot of man coverage, so building depth at defensive back is crucial.

Conclusion

I firmly believe this team has the talent and potential to make the College Football Playoff in 2024. However, potential can be a double-edged sword in football. FSU needs to continue improving weekly and maintain the chip on their shoulder from last year’s playoff debacle.

We’ll be releasing weekly articles breaking down every game for FSU Football this season. Make sure to subscribe below!