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Happy Sunday, Seminole!

Here’s today’s Brief:

🔥 Defensive Tackle Depth: FSU faces the challenge of replacing key players like Braden Fiske and Fabien Lovett. With Joshua Farmer and Darrell Jackson stepping up, the depth looks promising for 2024.

📊 Preseason Weight Changes: Key players like DJ Uiagalelei and Roydell Williams have adjusted their weights ahead of the new season.

🏈 Playoff Potential: Five reasons FSU could make the playoffs: strong running game, formidable defense, special teams edge, improved third-down efficiency, and coaching continuity. Tough schedule remains a hurdle.

🛡️ Top Defensive Tackle Recruits: FSU landed 4-star DTs Kevin Wynn and Myron Charles for 2025, strengthening their defensive line. What’s next?

🔎 Offensive Depth Chart: With preseason practice starting, key players like DJ Uiagalelei and Lawrance Toafili are expected to lead.

🔮 Josh Petty Decision: Five-star OL Josh Petty, impressed by FSU, will announce his decision on August 12. Adding him could result in one of the best line classes in school history.

🔥 FSU's Defensive Tackle Depth for 2024 🔥

As Florida State enters the 2024 season, the team faces the challenge of replacing key defensive tackle players, including second-round draft pick Braden Fiske and multi-year starter Fabien Lovett. These players were instrumental in maintaining a top-10 national defense, and their departure, along with two key rotational players, Dennis Briggs and Malcolm Ray, leaves a significant gap.

The Challenge Ahead:

• Departures: Fiske, Lovett, Briggs, and Ray combined for nearly 1,250 snaps last season.

• Impact: Their absence will be felt, but there's an optimistic outlook on the new talent stepping up.

Projected Depth Chart:

1st DT Position:

1. Darrell Jackson (RS Jr.)

2. Daniel Lyons (RS Soph.)

3. Tomiwa Durojaiye (RS Soph.)

2nd DT Position:

1. Joshua Farmer (RS Jr.)

2. Grady Kelly (RS Jr.)

3. KJ Sampson (RS Fr.)

Position MVP: Joshua Farmer

Farmer stepped into a starting role last season, demonstrating significant improvement and impact as a 1-tech player. Despite playing through a hand injury, Farmer's strength and technique made him a standout. Now fully recovered, Farmer is poised to be a dominant force inside.

Newcomer to Watch: Tomiwa Durojaiye

Durojaiye, a transfer from West Virginia (previously at Kentucky), brings raw talent and power. While he needs development, his potential as an interior pass rusher is highly regarded. His performance could make a substantial impact this season.

Breakout Candidate: Darrell Jackson

After sitting out most of last season due to NCAA transfer rules, Jackson is ready to take on a starting role. With his impressive physical build and growing skill set, Jackson is expected to attract significant attention from scouts and potentially be an all-conference performer.

It's Now or Never: Daniel Lyons

Lyons has been a valuable rotational player, but 2024 is crucial for him to prove he can handle a more significant role. With increased snaps and the opportunity to establish himself as a starting 3-tech for 2025, Lyons needs to demonstrate his growth and readiness.

How Did We Do Last Year?

Rating: 9/10 Last year, the defensive tackle group exceeded expectations despite injuries. The depth and talent shone through, particularly in critical games, showcasing the team's resilience and strength.

Confidence Rating (1-10): 7/10

Despite the departure of key veterans, this group remains strong. Jackson and Farmer are NFL-caliber prospects, and the surrounding pieces have significant potential. The key will be integrating new talent and maintaining consistency across the board.

As the Seminoles prepare for the new season, the defensive tackle position is set to be a pivotal area, with high expectations for both returning and new players to step up and deliver.

You can check out more details here.

📊 FSU Preseason Camp Weight Changes Breakdown 📊

With Florida State's preseason camp starting this week, the anticipation for the 2024 season is building. As the summer conditioning program concludes, the FSU roster has been updated with notable weight changes. Here’s a look at the impact of Coach Storms (and crew) across the team:

Quarterbacks:

• DJ Uiagalelei: Dropped from 255 to 252 pounds.

• Luke Kromenhoek: Gained seven pounds, now at 208 pounds.

• Brock Glenn: No change, remains at 215 pounds.

Running Backs:

• Roydell Williams: Dropped from 225 to 214 pounds.

• Kam Davis: Gained three pounds, now at 224 pounds.

• Micahi Danzy: Gained five pounds, now at 185 pounds.

• Sam Singleton: Dropped four pounds, now at 195 pounds.

• Lawrance Toafili: Maintained weight, still at 199 pounds.

Wide Receivers:

• Kentron Poitier: Dropped from 208 to 202 pounds.

• BJ Gibson: Dropped from 199 to 193 pounds.

• Malik Benson: Gained five pounds, now at 195 pounds.

• Hykeem Williams: Gained five pounds, now at 215 pounds.

• Elijah Moore: Gained four pounds, now at 204 pounds.

Tight Ends:

• Jackson West: Dropped seven pounds, now at 235 pounds.

Offensive Line:

• Jayden Todd: Dropped from 340 to 324 pounds.

• Richie Leonard IV: Dropped four pounds, now at 331 pounds.

• Jeremiah Byers: Gained 11 pounds, now at 331 pounds.

• Jaylen Early: Gained seven pounds, now at 297 pounds.

• TJ Ferguson: Gained seven pounds, now at 330 pounds.

• Julian Armella: Gained four pounds, now at 325 pounds.

• Jonathan Daniels: Gained 11 pounds, now at 291 pounds.

• Tye Hilton: Gained 10 pounds, now at 292 pounds.

• Manasse Itete: Gained 10 pounds, now at 300 pounds.

• Jacob Rizy: Gained three pounds, now at 308 pounds.

Defensive Line:

• Aaron Hester: Gained nine pounds, now at 244 pounds.

• Sione Lolohea: Gained five pounds, now at 265 pounds.

• Amaree Williams: Gained four pounds, now at 219 pounds.

• DD Holmes: Gained five pounds, now at 255 pounds.

• Jaden Jones: Dropped 10 pounds, now at 240 pounds.

• Patrick Payton: Dropped four pounds, now at 250 pounds.

• Jamorie Flagg: Gained 16 pounds, now at 316 pounds.

• KJ Sampson: Gained six pounds, now at 306 pounds.

• Daniel Lyons: Gained four pounds, now at 294 pounds.

• Grady Kelly: Dropped four pounds, now at 295 pounds.

Linebackers:

• Jayden Parrish: Gained five pounds, now at 225 pounds.

• Timir Hickman-Collins: Dropped four pounds, now at 220 pounds.

• Shawn Murphy: Gained four pounds, now at 230 pounds.

• Cam Riley: Dropped eight pounds, now at 237 pounds.

• Blake Nichelson: Gained four pounds, now at 224 pounds.

• Demarco Ward: Dropped 11 pounds, now at 216 pounds.

Cornerbacks:

• Azareye'h Thomas: Gained four pounds, now at 198 pounds.

• Kevin Knowles II: Gained seven pounds, now at 190 pounds.

• Earl Little Jr.: Dropped six pounds, now at 186 pounds.

• Quindarrius Jones: Dropped three pounds, now at 190 pounds.

• Omarion Cooper: Gained 12 pounds, now at 202 pounds (likely moving to safety).

Safeties:

• Davonte Brown: Dropped six pounds, now at 195 pounds.

• Shyheim Brown: Dropped five pounds, now at 208 pounds.

• Conrad Hussey: Gained four pounds, now at 200 pounds.

There are more details for you here.

🏈 Five Reasons FSU Will Make the Playoff - One Why They Might Not 🏈

The Osceola recently broke down five compelling reasons why FSU is poised for a playoff spot this year, alongside one possible reason for missing out.

1. Strong Running Game

• Key Players: Roydell Williams, Lawrance Toafili, Kameron Davis, Caziah Holmes, Jaylin Lucas, Sam Singleton, Micahi Danzy

• Depth: Despite losing Trey Benson, FSU’s running back room is deep and versatile.

• Norvell’s Track Record: Historically strong ground game under head coach Mike Norvell, with potential to dictate games on the ground.

2. Defensive Strength

• Front Four: Key players include Patrick Payton, Marvin Jones Jr., Joshua Farmer, and Darrell Jackson.

• Defensive Backfield: Talents like Azareye’h Thomas and Fentrell Cypress, along with depth in the defensive backfield.

• Linebacker Depth: Emerging players like Blake Nichelson, Shawn Murphy, Cam Riley, and Justin Cryer ready to step up.

3. Special Teams Advantage

• Experienced Specialists: Alex Mastromanno (punter) and Ryan Fitzgerald (kicker) provide reliability.

• Return Game: Jaylin Lucas adds a dynamic element with 1,163 kick return yards at Indiana.

4. Improved Third-Down Efficiency

• Key Factors: Healthy and mobile DJ Uiagalelei, depth at running back.

• Norvell’s Aggression: Expect increased efficiency and more fourth-down attempts.

5. Coaching Continuity

• Stable Staff: All 10 assistant coaches retained, providing continuity.

• Experienced Coordinators: Adam Fuller (defense), John Papuchis (special teams), and Alex Atkins (offense) have been with Norvell since 2020.

Potential Stumbling Block: Tough Schedule

• Challenging Opponents: FSU faces No. 8 Notre Dame, No. 11 Miami, No. 12 Memphis, and rivals Clemson and Florida.

• Schedule Difficulty: Additional challenges from rising teams like Georgia Tech and Power 4 newcomer SMU.

• Realistic Expectations: A 10-2 season with an ACC title could secure a playoff spot, but another undefeated season is a tall order given the schedule.

Conclusion:

While FSU boasts a strong running game, a formidable defense, solid special teams, improved third-down efficiency, and coaching stability, the challenging schedule remains a significant hurdle. Navigating these challenges successfully could lead to another special season for the Seminoles.

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🛡️ FSU's Stellar 2025 Defensive Tackle Class 🛡️

In the 2025 recruiting cycle, Florida State has landed their best defensive tackle class in about a decade. With two commitments already secured, the Seminoles have significantly bolstered their defensive line. Let's dive into the details:

Who's In the Boat?

• 4-star DT Kevin Wynn – Greensboro (Ga.) Greene County

  • Wynn was the first top defensive tackle to commit to Florida State's 2025 class, making his decision on the final day of his official visit to Tallahassee in late June. FSU, which offered Wynn years ago, beat out Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas for his pledge. This is a massive win for the Seminoles' defensive line.

• 4-star DT Myron Charles – Port Charlotte (Fla.)

  • Charles announced his commitment to FSU within a week of Wynn’s pledge. Although he had silently committed to the FSU coaching staff in the spring, the summer saw a strong push from Texas. Despite the Longhorns' SEC appeal and impressive NIL opportunities, FSU's long-term relationship with Charles helped secure his commitment. Together, Wynn and Charles form a superb defensive tackle class for the 'Noles.

So, is FSU Done at this Position?

The short answer is probably.

There are still a few targets on the board, including five-star defensive tackle Justus Terry, who is expected to commit back to Georgia but visited FSU officially in June. Another name to watch is Florida defensive tackle commit Jeramiah McCloud, who remains in communication with FSU and might take an official visit during the season, although nothing is confirmed yet.

FSU would be extremely comfortable signing just Wynn and Charles. However, they remain open to adding another viable option if it enhances their defensive line.

Read more here.

🔎 FSU's Offensive Depth Chart Preview for 2024 Season 🔎

With the Florida State football team set to open preseason practice on Wednesday, the countdown to the 2024 season kickoff against Georgia Tech in Dublin, Ireland, begins. The Seminoles have one month to finalize their depth chart. Here's a preview of what the offensive lineup might look like:

Quarterback

• Top candidate to start: DJ Uiagalelei, R-Sr., 6-4, 252

  • The former Clemson and Oregon State starter has three years of Power 5 experience, with 43 touchdowns and 14 interceptions over the past two seasons.

• Likely backup: Brock Glenn, R-Fr., 6-2, 215

  • Despite some struggles last season, Glenn’s experience gives him an edge over the true freshmen.

• Wild card: Luke Kromenhoek, Fr., 6-4, 208

  • Rated as a five-star prospect by On3, Kromenhoek has the talent to challenge Glenn for the backup spot.

Running Back

• Top candidates to start: Lawrance Toafili, R-Sr., 6-0, 196; Roydell Williams, Sr., 5-10, 214

  • Toafili, a versatile back with 2,000 offensive yards in his FSU career, and Williams, a bruising runner from Alabama, lead the charge.

• Likely backups: Jaylin Lucas, Jr., 5-9, 175; Caziah Holmes, R-Sr., 5-11, 215

  • Lucas, a transfer from Indiana, brings explosive speed, while Holmes provides experience and maturity.

• Wild card: Kam Davis, Fr., 5-10, 224

  • A highly-touted freshman with immense potential, Davis could be the future star of FSU's backfield.

Offensive Tackle

• Top candidates to start: Darius Washington, R-Sr., 6-4, 310; Jeremiah Byers, R-Sr., 6-4, 331

  • Washington, an All-ACC selection, and Byers, a consistent starter, anchor the line.

• Likely backups: Jaylen Early, R-So., 6-4, 297; Robert Scott, R-Sr., 6-5, 337

  • Early has shown significant improvement, while Scott, if healthy, will compete for the starting spot.

• Wild card: Andre Otto, R-Fr., 6-5, 325

  • Otto impressed last fall and spring, showing promise for future contributions.

Offensive Guard

• Top candidates to start: Richie Leonard, Sr., 6-2, 331; TJ Ferguson, R-Jr., 6-4, 330

  • Leonard, a transfer from Florida, and Ferguson, from Alabama, bolster the guard positions.

• Likely backups: Keiondre Jones, R-Sr., 6-3, 337; Bryson Estes, R-Jr., 6-3, 285

  • Jones and Estes provide depth and competition for starting roles.

• Wild card: Julian Armella, R-So., 6-6, 325

  • Armella's move to guard shows promise, but consistency is key for his future.

Center

• Top candidate to start: Maurice Smith, R-Sr., 6-3, 298

  • Smith, with 41 career starts, is the reliable leader at center.

• Likely backup: Jacob Rizy, Sr., 6-5, 308

  • The Harvard transfer brings versatility and experience to the line.

• Wild card: Darius Washington

  • Washington’s versatility allows him to step in at center if needed.

Wide Receiver

• Top candidates to start: Malik Benson, Sr., 6-1, 195; Ja’Khi Douglas, R-Sr., 5-9, 195; Kentron Poitier, R-Sr., 6-3, 202

  • Benson, a transfer from Alabama, has developed chemistry with Uiagalelei. Douglas and Poitier bring experience and potential.

• Likely backups: Hykeem Williams, So., 6-2, 215; Jalen Brown, R-Fr., 6-1, 174; Darion Williamson, R-Sr., 6-3, 202

  • Williams and Brown offer star potential, while Williamson needs to prove his consistency.

• Wild cards: Lawayne McCoy, Fr., 6-1, 176; Elijah Moore, Fr., 6-4, 204

  • McCoy and Moore bring fresh talent and could make an impact early.

Tight End

• Top candidates to start: Kyle Morlock, R-Sr., 6-6, 240; Jackson West, R-Jr., 6-4, 235

  • Morlock and West are dependable receivers, with West also showcasing strong blocking skills.

• Likely backups: Landen Thomas, Fr., 6-4, 235; Brian Courtney, Jr., 6-3, 240

  • Thomas, a top freshman talent, and Courtney, a former quarterback, add depth.

• Wild card: Amaree Williams, Fr., 6-4, 219

  • Originally a defensive end, Williams' athleticism could make him a versatile tight end option.

You can check out more details on this here.

🔮 Georgia OL Josh Petty Nears Decision: FSU in Strong Position 🔮 

Recruiting Overview

Georgia offensive lineman Josh Petty, a five-star prospect and the No. 2 player at his position nationally, is set to announce his college decision on August 12. Florida State, Georgia Tech, Stanford, and a few other schools are in the mix.

Recruitment Journey

Initially, Florida State wasn't considered a major contender for Petty. Clemson and Tennessee were seen as the frontrunners until Petty's visit to FSU in the spring, which changed the dynamics.

Petty praised Coach Alex Atkins for his honesty and straightforward approach throughout the recruitment process. "He’s a good dude and a great place around here with good people," Petty noted.

Key Factors for FSU

Petty's official visit to Florida State in June was significant, especially as he got to spend time with his sister, who also attends FSU. The Petty family is supportive of both siblings attending the same college, adding another layer to FSU's appeal.

Petty was impressed by the energy and leadership of head coach Mike Norvell. "That man has some freakin’ energy. The guys are really bought into what he’s doing," Petty said.

Position and Potential Impact

Though On3 lists Petty as an interior lineman, there is potential for him to play offensive tackle at FSU. Adding Petty to a class that already includes five-star OL Solomon Thomas and four-star OL Peyton Joseph could result in one of the best line classes in school history.

Warchant’s Prediction

While other schools remain strong contenders, Warchant’s recruiting insiders believe that FSU’s strong academics and the comfort level Petty has with the Seminoles' staff could be decisive. If Petty were deciding today, they predict he would choose Florida State.

Stay tuned for Petty’s announcement on August 12, which could significantly bolster FSU’s 2025 recruiting class.

Read more here

And that’s a wrap!

We hope you enjoyed the latest updates on FSU football, from player profiles and weight changes to recruiting insights and playoff predictions. Stay tuned for more exciting news and in-depth analysis as we gear up for an action-packed season.

Remember to keep cheering on our Seminoles, and we'll be back with more updates soon. Go 'Noles!