Advertisement
premium-icon
football Edit

In a season of poor performances, FSU defense hits new low

Florida State's defense got off to a poor start in its season opener against Georgia Tech, allowing the Yellow Jackets to rack up 438 yards of total offense with a true freshman quarterback playing in his first college football game.

Since then, the Seminoles have seemingly gotten worse and worse.

In its five games against FBS competition this season, Florida State has given up more yards of total offense in every successive week. From 438 against Georgia Tech to 517 against Miami, then 554 against Notre Dame, 558 against North Carolina and now 569 on Saturday against Louisville.

** Don't miss our great Football coverage. Get your 30-day FREE trial **

There seemed to be some positive strides made by first-year coordinator Adam Fuller's defense in the UNC game last week, at least in certain situations. The Seminoles performed well on third and fourth downs in that contest, and also in the red zone.

But there might not have been any bright spots during Saturday's 48-16 loss at Louisville.

FSU allowed the Cardinals (2-4, 1-4 in the ACC) to score on each of their first five drives -- four touchdowns and a field goal -- and the Seminoles forced just two punts in the entire game.

"We knew that this team had big-play capability," FSU coach Mike Norvell said. "If you let them get in space, there's a chance that they can really make you pay. And obviously that happened."

Indeed, Louisville slapped the FSU defense around with big play after big play after big play.

Cardinals quarterback Malik Cunningham connected on passes of 66 and 58 yards to star receiver Tutu Atwell, and he completed three other passes for more than 20 yards.

premium-icon
PREMIUM CONTENT

You must be a member to read the full article. Subscribe now for instant access to all premium content.

  • icn-check-mark Created with Sketch.
    Members-only forums
  • icn-check-mark Created with Sketch.
    Predict prospect commits with FanFutureCast
  • icn-check-mark Created with Sketch.
    Exclusive highlights and interviews
  • icn-check-mark Created with Sketch.
    Exclusive coverage of Rivals Camp Series
  • icn-check-mark Created with Sketch.
    Breaking recruiting news
Advertisement