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Florida State vs. Texas State- Game Preview

 Texas State Bio Flash:

Head Coach- Dennis Franchione (5th Season, 17-19 record)

Returning Starters- 8 on offense, 6 on defense.

Last Year’s Record- 7-5 (5-3 in Sun Belt)

Quick Analysis:

The past two seasons Texas State earned bowl eligibility but was not invited to a bowl. They have improved their record every year under experienced head coach Dennis Franchione, and look to be invited to their first bowl game since joining the FBS in 2012. They return Junior starting quarterback Tyler Jones, who looks to improve upon his Sophomore campaign last year. Boasting one of if not the best O-lines in the Sun Belt, they will lean heavily on their offense this year. Biggest weakness is the defensive secondary, and they will need players to step up if they want to go bowling in December.

4 Things 2 Watch:

1) Play Calling

Everett Golson was announced as the starting quarterback Monday night. His dual-threat ability gives Jimbo a skill set unlike the quarterbacks of the past. Look for an increase in read options, speed options, and roll outs.

2) The Freshmen

Florida State’s impressive recruiting class of 2015 has made their way on campus, and some look to contribute right away. The ones to keep an eye on are: WR George Campbell, DB Derwin James, DE Josh Sweat, RB Jacques Patrick, and CB Tarvarus McFadden.

3) The “Go-to” Guy

The quarterback battle has taken all the headlines away from who the ball will be thrown to. Many expect Travis Rudolph to replace Rashad Greene as the “Go-to” receiver, but nothing is set in stone. Also interesting to note: Everett Golson loved throwing to his tight ends at Notre Dame, will he continue that trend at Florida State?

4) The Secondary

Florida State released a “Projected Contributors” depth chart Monday, and the names listed for the defensive secondary are interesting. For starters, Tyler Hunter gets the nod at the STAR position (hybrid Safety/Linebacker, lines up all over the field) over highly praised Trey Marshall. Omitted from the list all together was True Freshman Derwin James, whom many predict to make an immediate impact and become a starter before season’s end. Remember, he did this on the first play of the spring game:

 

Forecast:

Although Franchione has Texas State pointing in the right direction, the ‘Noles should win this one comfortably. Florida State will be the best opponent the Bobcats have faced since joining the FBS. They did not play a single ranked opponent last year, however did hold their own against the likes of Illinois and Navy. With that said, 48-14 is the prediction with the ‘Noles on top. The constant nail-biting Seminole fans endured last year should come to a halt Saturday, and the beginning of the much awaited 2015 College Football season will commence.

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