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FSU's second scrimmage saw young stars emerging and key depth chart movements as the season opener nears.

Here’s what’s on tap:

🏟️ FSU’s Second Scrimmage: Freshmen Kam Davis and Sam Singleton shine, while Ja'Khi Douglas makes a strong case for WR1.

🎙️ Coaches’ Insights: Mike Norvell praises DJ Uiagalelei’s growth and highlights improvements in O-line depth.

🔥 Recruiting Intel: FSU leads for RB Byron Louis as other key targets prepare to make decisions.

🥇 FSU Alumnae Claim Olympic Gold: Casey Krueger, Jenna Nighswonger, and Emily Sams secure gold with Team USA.

🚀 Speed and Potential: Malik Benson and Jalen Brown’s speed could be game-changing for FSU's offense.

🧱 FSU Defense Poised for Dominance: Despite NFL departures, FSU’s defense looks ready to be a top unit in 2024.

🏟️ FSU's Second Scrimmage: Rising Stars, Key Developments, and Depth Chart Revelations 🏟️ 

Florida State’s second preseason scrimmage at Doak Campbell Stadium revealed significant progress, especially among younger players, as many veterans saw limited action.

Offensive Standouts: Freshman running backs Kam Davis and Sam Singleton continued to shine, showcasing their versatility and power. Davis, in particular, impressed with his goal-line prowess and agility, while Singleton built on his strong performance from the first scrimmage.

The wide receiver room saw a big contribution from Ja’Khi Douglas, who rebounded from a rough patch in camp to make several critical plays, including a touchdown. Freshman WRs Elijah Moore and Lawayne McCoy also made their mark, with Moore receiving another week of praise for his playmaking abilities.

Tight end Amaree Williams, who had a quieter first scrimmage, delivered a standout performance with a long touchdown reception, demonstrating his speed and athleticism. Williams also showed improvements as a blocker, underscoring his rapid development.

The offensive line depth was tested as multiple top linemen had limited reps, but center depth, a concern last season, has improved significantly. Richie Leonard, Jacob Rizy, and Andre’ Otto all stepped up.

Defensive Highlights: On the defensive side, defensive tackle Daniel Lyons continued to build his case as a key contributor, making several tackles for loss and pushing for a prominent role in the rotation.

Defensive end Byron Turner was another standout, frequently disrupting plays in the backfield with multiple sacks and tackles for loss.

In the secondary, Kevin Knowles II’s interception highlighted his growing presence, while freshman safety Conrad Hussey showed his physicality and ball-hawking skills, pushing for a spot in the two-deep depth chart.

Overall Impressions and Health Updates: Head coach Mike Norvell expressed satisfaction with the scrimmage, emphasizing the importance of these reps for less-proven players battling for depth chart positions. He also provided a positive update on the team's health, noting that the squad is in "pretty good shape" with no significant injuries reported. Freshman TE Landen Thomas, who had been limited, is expected to return to full action soon, adding another dynamic weapon to FSU’s offense.

As the Seminoles shift their focus to game prep for their season opener against Georgia Tech in Ireland, the progress and depth displayed in this scrimmage provide a solid foundation for the challenges ahead.

You can check out more details here, here, and here.

🎙️ Insight from the Coaches: Key Quotes from FSU's Second Scrimmage 🎙️

Head coach Mike Norvell and offensive coordinator Alex Atkins shared their thoughts after Florida State’s second preseason scrimmage. Here are some standout quotes:

Mike Norvell on DJ Uiagalelei: “He’s done a remarkable job. The investment in his study and overall understanding has been outstanding. He’s adapting well to our system, processing quickly, and making great decisions.”

Norvell on Offensive Line Depth: “It was great to see the younger guys step up with the first-team OL resting. Andre’ Otto had an incredible week, showing versatility at center and guard.”

Norvell on Skill Players: “Young guys like Elijah Moore and Kam Davis have really emerged. They’re pushing hard and have great futures ahead.”

Norvell on Ja'Khi Douglas' Performance: “Ja’Khi Douglas had a couple of really nice plays early. He scored a touchdown, had a couple of big moments. I was proud of him for how he came out.”

Alex Atkins on Andre’ Otto’s Willpower: “Otto's biggest character trait is willpower. He’s going to will himself to be a good player. His versatility and determination have been impressive.”

Norvell on Daniel Lyons’ Development: “Daniel Lyons has had a great fall camp. He’s really pushing to be a key member in that rotation on the defensive front.”

Atkins on DJ’s Progression: “He’s not just learning the FSU offense; he’s making it his own. His steady progression in decision-making and leadership has been impressive.”

Norvell on Team Camaraderie: “The care for each other and the willingness to give more because of who you do it with is evident. This team is forging its identity and pushing forward together.”

Norvell on the Run Game: “Our running back room is talented, with a good balance of explosiveness and consistency. We’re seeing a group that’s gelling together, with both veteran and younger backs contributing.”

🔥 Recruiting Intel: FSU's Position in Key Battles for Top Prospects 🔥

Florida State’s recruiting efforts are heating up and the Noles247 team just dropped some recruiting updates:

• Byron Louis: The Seminoles are in a prime spot for the four-star RB, especially with Miami possibly stepping back from adding another RB to their class. Louis is expected to make his decision next month, and FSU is pushing hard to secure his commitment.

• Josh Petty: The five-star offensive lineman is trending towards Georgia Tech, with sources indicating that the Yellow Jackets feel confident. However, FSU hasn’t given up and remains in the fight as Petty’s decision looms on Monday.

• Bryce Fitzgerald: FSU’s position continues to strengthen with the four-star DB. While Miami, Florida, and LSU have been in the mix, the latest indications suggest that Fitzgerald might choose to stay in-state, with FSU leading the charge.

• Other Defensive Backs: FSU is also targeting other top DBs. Four-star CB Onis Konanbanny seems to be leaning towards Tennessee ahead of his August 23 decision, though FSU remains in contact. Four-star safety Ladarian Clardy, who postponed his August 3 decision, is likely leaning towards Ole Miss. Additionally, FSU is working on flipping four-star DB Tony Williams from UCF.

🥇 FSU Alumnae Lead Team USA to Olympic Gold in Women's Football (Soccer) 🥇 

Florida State alumnae Casey Krueger, Jenna Nighswonger, and Emily Sams played instrumental roles in Team USA’s triumph at the 2024 Olympics, securing a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the final. This historic win marks the first time former Seminoles have won an international championship with Team USA, adding to FSU's legacy on the global stage.

Krueger, a standout defender, became the first Seminole to earn multiple Olympic medals, adding gold to her 2020 bronze. Alongside Nighswonger and Sams, Krueger was integral to a U.S. defense that allowed just two goals throughout the tournament. Their performances were highlighted by clean sheets against Zambia, Japan, and Germany, culminating in a shutout victory in the final.

This gold medal victory is the United States' fifth in Olympic women’s football and the first since 2012. The team's perfect 6-0 record, matched by only one previous U.S. squad, underscores the dominance and cohesion demonstrated by these FSU alumnae on the world’s biggest stage.

More details here.

🚀 Speed and Potential: Malik Benson and Jalen Brown’s Impact on FSU’s Offense 🚀 

Malik Benson, a transfer from Alabama, brings blazing speed to Florida State’s offense with a 10.4-second 100-meter dash. While he confidently claims to be the fastest on the team, he’s quick to mention fellow transfer Jalen Brown as a close contender. Brown, a Miami native who transferred from LSU, boasts a 10.6-second 100-meter dash, making him a dangerous vertical threat and a key asset for the Seminoles this season.

Receivers coach Ron Dugans has praised Brown for his progress, especially in areas beyond his natural speed. Dugans noted that while Brown isn’t the most physical receiver, he’s shown a willingness to improve his blocking and contested catches—essential skills for earning regular playing time in FSU’s system.

During a practice in Jacksonville, Brown’s growth was on display. He executed a key block on the perimeter, springing a big run by Jaylin Lucas. Additionally, Brown made a difficult catch in the back of the end zone after initially faltering on a route—a clear sign of his potential and coachability.

The coaching staff is optimistic about Brown’s future, seeing him as a significant part of the offensive strategy this season. His ability to combine speed with physicality and football IQ will be vital as the Seminoles look to him and Benson in the team’s aerial attack.

FSU believes Brown’s continued development could position him as a key contributor alongside Benson, making them a formidable duo in the Seminoles’ offense.

You can check out the full details here.

🧱 FSU Defense Poised for Another Dominant Season? 🧱 

Florida State's defense made significant strides in 2023, allowing just 19.3 points per game—the best of the Mike Norvell-Adam Fuller era. With the loss of key NFL-bound players like Jared Verse and Renardo Green, the Seminoles face the challenge of maintaining or even improving this defensive prowess.

However, the coaching staff is optimistic. The development of returning players like Patrick Payton, and the addition of promising transfers such as Marvin Jones Jr. and Darrell Jackson, provide a strong foundation. The coaching staff believes this group could match or surpass last season's defensive performance.

The ability to pressure the quarterback with four down linemen and a versatile secondary gives FSU's defense the potential to be a dominant force again in 2024.

The defensive front, combined with an impressive secondary including potential stars Azareye’h Thomas and Fentrell Cypress, positions FSU well to match or exceed their 2023 success. The ability to control games through a strong defense will be crucial as FSU aims for a spot in the 12-team playoff.

More details here.

And that’s a wrap!

As we edge closer to the season opener, it's clear the Seminoles are gearing up for a thrilling year. The rise of young talents, strategic depth in key positions, and the resilience of our defense all signal great things ahead.

Stay tuned, stay passionate, and as always - Go Noles! 🍢 🏹