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Clemson opponent preview: Florida State offense
Clemson vs Florida State has turned into one of the most influential games in the college football landscape. Dabo Swinney has not fared particularly well against the Seminoles since becoming head coach, going 3-5 against FSU since 2008. That being said, Swinney has significantly increased the talent level at Clemson over that span of time. Will Dabo get his first win over Florida State at Doak Campbell? We shall see.
Florida State offense:
Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports
Points per game: 34.9 (35th in the country)
Yards per game: 484.4 (26th in the country)
Florida State’s offense has done pretty well at this point in the season. Due mainly to the efforts of starting quarterback, Deondre Francois (RFr) who has proved to be one of the toughest players in the country. Francois has been sacked 21 times this season, however, he has still managed to complete 62.4 percent of his passes while only throwing 3 interceptions.
Clemson’s biggest advantage against Florida State is on the defensive line. Clemson is tied for fourth in the country in sacks with 25. Florida State ranks 108th in the country in sacks allowed with 21. If Clemson can force Florida State into 3rd and long situations, the Tigers will be able to pin their ears back and get after Francois.
Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports
Dalvin Cook was expected by many to contend for a Heisman trophy this season. Cook, due to the poor play of his offensive line, got off to a slow start in 2016. Dalvin did not crack 100 yards rushing in a game until week 4 against USF. Since that game, however, Cook has ran for 100+ yards in three straight games. The Noles’ offensive line is doing a much better job of opening holes for Cook as of late. It is vital that Clemson contain Cook, when he gets going Florida State is difficult to beat.
The Seminoles receiving core has length in Travis Rudolph and Auden Tate; and speed in Jesus “Bobo” Wilson and Kermit Whitfield. While the Seminoles receiving core is talented, their impact may be muddled do to Florida State’s problems on the offensive line. If Deondre Francois does not have the time to go through his progression, it will not matter how talented the Noles are on the perimeter.
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