After landing superb recruiting classes each of the last two years (and well on their way to another one), Florida State has graduated from the "used to be good once upon a time" discussions to "best team in the land" talks.
SR QB EJ Manuel does not get the credit he deserves as a signal caller. He is a very accurate passer, and if he stays healthy this year, he will be more productive too. He also has a great supporting cast. His cadre of RBs should keep opposing defenses honest, and he has some very good young weapons at his disposal. His SO WRs, Christian Green and Rashard Greene are both emerging talents who could easily top 700 yards a piece this year. The most exciting target however is rFR Kelvin Benjamin, a 6'6" 245 lb receiver who will get some on field looks this year, but like enter the starting lineup next season. The offensive line is the weakest part of this offense having lost their bookends, Zebrie Sanders and Andrew Datko from a year ago.
Defensively, this team could be spectacular. Their defensive line is amongst the best in the country. SR Brandon Jenkins will lead teammates Bjoern Werner and Tank Carradine as one of the most intense pass rushes anywhere in the nation. SO DT Timmy Jernigan has emerged as a legit defensive star too. This line is simply scary. The linebackers lost their leader when Nigel Bradham left for the NFL, but the guys who are still in Tallahassee are good ball players. The secondary is another outstanding unit. JR CB Xavier Rhodes is one of the more talented pass defenders in the country, and Greg Reid is an adequate corner, and a superb return man. The Safety pair is young and very exciting. JR LaMarcus Joyner can develop into an all-american candidate this season if he keeps improving, and SO Karlos Williams is the definition of upside.
Bottom line for the Seminoles... they are very good. Last season they were slightly over hyped. This season, they are legitimate contenders.
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