Clemson Football 2017 Opponent Preview: Florida State
As we move through fall camp, Rubbing The Rock will be taking a look at the Clemson Football program’s 2017 schedule. This edition features, the Tigers’ week 11 opponent, Florida State.
Florida State went through some struggles during the 2016 season, finishing the year 10-3. There were many factors that played into the ‘Noles issues last season, mainly injuries and sub-par play along the offensive line.
Coming into 2017, Florida State has one of the most experienced and talented defenses in the country. The Seminoles also have the toughest quarterback in America in Deondre Francois. Jimbo Fisher’s squad has all the makings of a College Football Playoff contender.
Current Head Coach: Jimbo Fisher (8th year)
Overall Record in 2016: 10-3
After taking over for FSU legend, Bobby Bowden, Fisher brought this program back to the forefront of the college football landscape. During his time as head coach in Tallahassee, Fisher has compiled a 78-17 overall record. Fisher’s name is annually brought up in head coaching vacancies on both the collegiate and professional level.
He will have the ‘Noles ready to play in their season opener vs. his old boss, Nick Saban and Alabama. There are College Football Playoff hopes on the line, not to mention conference bragging rights.
Statistical leaders in 2016:
Passing – Deondre Francois (RFr), 58.8 completion percentage, 3,350 yards and 20 touchdowns.
Rushing – Dalvin Cook (Jr), 288 attempts, for 1,765 yards and 19 touchdowns.
Receiving – Travis Rudolph (Jr), 56 receptions for 840 yards and seven touchdowns.
Tackles – Matthew Thomas (Jr), 77 total (50 solo).
Interceptions – Tarvarus McFadden (So), eight.
Sacks – DeMarcus Walker (Sr), 16.
Related Story: Clemson ranked in the top 5 of the preseason AP Poll
Key players in 2017:
Offensively –
The most important player for FSU on the offensive side of the ball is left tackle, Rick Leonard. Of Florida State’s offensive lineman, Leonard was one of the most consistent in 2016. He is also protecting Deondre Francois’ blindside, which is of obvious importance. If the ‘Noles can protect Francois, he is capable of shredding opposing defenses.
The second most important player for this Seminoles offense is Jacques Patrick. True freshman tailback, Cam Akers figures to make an immediate impact, however, he is completely new to the rigors of a college season. Coming into his junior season, Patrick has been around the block a time or two. He has the experience paired with a 6-foot-3, 230 pound frame and deceptive open field speed. A consistent running game will take pressure off of young gunslinger, Francois.
Defensively –
The only choice here is Derwin James. The do-it-all defender comes into the season with sky-high expectations. James is viewed by many as the best draft eligible player in the country entering 2017. The FSU star is every bit as versatile as former Michigan Wolverine, Jabrill Peppers and much more productive.
In his three seasons in Ann Arbor, Peppers accounted for 119 total tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and one interception. In essentially one season at Florida State, James has recorded 102 total tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and one interception. It is clear what type of talent James is.
Clemson’s matchup with Florida State this fall will likely have ACC Championship implications, as well as College Football Playoff implications. The Tigers and ‘Noles each have stellar defenses and a host of weapons on offense.
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This game will be decided by the battle in the trenches. Both Clemson and Florida State have elite defensive lines. That being said, the Tigers hold an edge along the offensive line. Florida State struggled mightily upfront a season ago. If those issues carry over into 2017, that may keep them out of the College Football Playoff for a third consecutive season.