By Bill Kristoph

By now, if you’re a Seminole fan, and do not know the sad story of what happened to Wyatt Sexton over the summer, then you’ve been hiding under a rock. Sexton was being primed to be the ‘Noles quarterback this season, but fell victim to Lyme Disease. As we continue to wish him well and remain hopeful for his quick and full recovery, our attention turns to our remaining options, talented freshman, Drew Weatherford and Xavier Lee.

Thanks to Xavier Lee’s sore shoulder last week, Drew snatched the opportunity to start by having some killer numbers in scrimmages. Many Seminole fans thought that Xavier Lee would win the job easily, however, some poor numbers prior to his sore shoulder had put that in doubt. I was one of the few continuing to preach the positives of Weatherford at QB, even if both guys were completely healthy. Why? Weatherford has one of those intangible qualities, that you know when you see it or hear it, but have a tough time describing. Plus, many fans seemed to forget that Weatherford threw for 57 touchdowns in his final two years of high school. Like Xavier Lee, Drew was a stud too.

Am I supposed to believe that after all of this, Lee won’t see any action? With his 4.5 40, of course not. I am willing to bet that Lee will see action, early and often, as this battle continues for the first part of the season. After four or five games, however, expect FSU’s coaching staff to stick with one guy for a majority of time. I still think that you will see a return to the old tradition of playing the “backup” QB with the second team offense at teams, to give them an entire series. I think most teams around the nation would LOVE to have that problem. What I don’t know is how happy Xavier Lee will be about that situation.

Only time will tell if I’m wrong, but I fully expect Drew Weatherford to win the starting job permanently. Judging by everything that has been reported, he’s Peyton Manning like in the film room. He’s won recruits that have come to FSU to play for HIM. (Geez, if he doesn’t measure up… put him on the recruiting staff.) What this writer is truly hopeful for, is that Drew Weatherford allows me to stop saying that my favorite all-time college quarterback is from Texas, Major Applewhite. Shocked about that Applewhite pick? Don’t be, the guy knew how to win games, and that is what should matter. I remember watching Texas’ seniors follow a freshman down the field, and I hope to see that this year only with garnet and gold.

Remember fans, there shouldn’t be two camps on this one. Root for the ‘Noles and root for your starting QB. It’s a fresh opportunity, and we should all applaud that! Tomorrow is the season preview, and Friday is the Miami prediction… stay tuned!!

By Bill Kristoph

One senior, one junior and a whole lot of underclassmen. Fans, meet your 2005 Wide Receivers. This group has surprised many throughout the practice season, and the youngsters look as ready to contribute as the veterans do. Which young wide receivers are ready? The answer might surprise you, if you were expecting to hear a lot about Fred Rouse.

Senior, Willie Reid, and Junior, Chris Davis, will be leading those on the receiving end of the FSU aerial attack. Fans, don’t be shocked if Willie Reid catches a ton of balls. After being bounced around throughout his FSU career between receiver and running back, Reid will get the opportunity to show how talented he can be. If he does not account for 12+ touchdowns this season (receiving and punt returning), I will be shocked. Reid is that go-to guy that Weatherford (or Lee) will need when things get hectic in the pocket. Junior, Chris Davis, should finally have a breakout year and show the world that he really is “the next Peter Warrick” as advertised. Davis is speedy, and if his route running remains improved over his previous seasons, then cornerbacks will have their hands full. With Reid as that go-to guy, Davis will provide the deep threat that the ‘Noles need.

Thus concludes the veteran portion of the review. Seriously, after those two, the ‘Noles must turn their hopes over to a bunch of youngsters. The talented underclassmen provide hope for now and in the future. FSU has one of the better “problems” a team can have; too much talent at one position. At the beginning of two-a-days, all eyes were on talented freshman, Fred Rouse. Rouse, a local Tallahassee product, has blazing speed, but at times this fall, has dropped some makable catches.

Enter Kenny O’Neal. O’Neal will have a major impact this season in the kick returning game and as a wide receiver. O’Neal will play behind Chris Davis to start the season, but if Davis falters, I think that FSU coaches are ready to play O’Neal a majority of the time. On the other side of the field, behind Willie Reid, DeCody Fagg is a big strong wideout with good hands, that should rack up some YAC this season, after smacking around a small corner or two. The top four receivers here make up the best 4 wide set for the ‘Noles since before the Snoop Minnis era. If the young quarterbacks can accurately deliver the ball, then FSU’s offense will not be nearly as anemic as last season. Aside from the four main receiving contributors I’ve listed, rookies like Fred Rouse and Greg Carr will see playing time. Rouse will end up being the best of the bunch over the next couple of years, he’s just not there quite yet.

While I’m on the subject of receivers, I’m going to include the FSU tight ends. Perhaps it is a case of wishful thinking, but wouldn’t it be great if Matt Henshaw or Donnie Carter ended up with oh, I don’t know, 15 receptions and 2 TD’s? There are some great TE moments in Seminole History, the 2005 Seminoles should take a look at that tape. Let’s make the Tight Ends more than extended offensive lineman. Throw in a couple of passes to fullback James Coleman or B.J. Dean, and you might just catch a couple of opposing defenses off guard. You know, that whole element of surprise thing!

Will the ‘Noles receivers have a big game against the ‘Canes? How often will they be used, when it can be argued that the Seminoles strength is the running game? Can they put the ‘Noles into the first ACC Championship Game? Stay tuned for the season preview and Miami game preview this Thursday and Friday!

By Bill Kristoph

I have one main thought about the running backs; Just give Leon the damn ball! Seriously, if Leon Washington’s carries are somewhere in the 250 range for the season, plus his touches from receptions, the ‘Noles will be well on their way to being in the first ACC Championship Game, and making it to a BCS Bowl. Yes, Lorenzo Booker provides a nice change up to Leon, but he suffers from Nick Maddox syndrome; he dances around too much. Nick was also a talented back that could razzle and dazzle, but he gave up too many 5 yard losses.

An X-factor in this mix is sensational freshman Antone Smith. He’s not currently listed on the depth chart for tailback, but don’t let that fool you. Smith is going to make some big plays this year for the ‘Noles, be it returning kicks or making runs from the backfield. I will be shocked if he does not see some action early in the season. I will not be shocked if he rips off a 20+ yard run with that playing time. I’ve always been a fan of smaller backs in college football, since they can hide behind offensive lineman. At a speedy 5′9″ Smith fits the bill.

There is even more great news for Seminole fans. If the worst case scenario happens, and Leon Washington and Lorenzo Booker were hurt, there are two outstanding runners behind them! Lamar Lewis and Jamal Edwards are 200+ lbs bruisers like Leon Washington. The opposition is going to have a tough time stopping the ‘Nole running back under the new zone blocking scheme. Look for the running backs to be the heart and soul of the 2005 Seminoles, to take pressure off of Drew Weatherford and to lead the ‘Noles to the first ACC Championship Game.

‘,0,88,5,’NoleCC’,'Sorry that this one is a quick preview… time has been short for me lately, but I promise the Full Season Preview and Miami Prediction will be up to snuff… hopefully the WR and QB Previews will be too!

By Bill Kristoph

Offensive Line Coach Mark McHale has resurrected zone blocking at FSU. With running backs like Lorenzo Booker and Leon Washington it’s a great idea. FSU’s back are notorious for finding holes and hitting them, and zone blocking facilitates that. Instead of designed holes, they sort of (hopefully) create themselves. It can also confuse opposing defenses. This should all equal out to an effective running game for the ‘Noles, especially if they give the ball to Leon Washington. 10+ wins are possible, if Leon carries 225-250 times this year. Granted, Lorenzo Booker might not love that idea, but he has a full year to himself in 2006.

Here’s a look at the 2005 Seminole Offensive Line. Although they are not highly touted this year, they have a chance to be much better than the past two editions of the OL. Let’s hope for a quiet success this season. Anchoring the OL is senior David Castillo, who not only is talented, but is very smart, both on and off of the field. If he can avoid the injury bug that has plagued him, the rest of the Seminole offense has an experienced leader to look to when times get tough. If Castillo needs relief, John Frady is a experienced second stringer that can step in and provide solid play.

Offensive Tackles Cory Niblock and David Overmeyer should be starters, although Ron Lunford provides a bulkier alternative to Niblock, and might provide an extra shove in goal line situations. Courtney Abbot, a redshirt freshman, hopefully won’t be needed much this season. If he is, the ‘Noles are injured. The Seminole tackles can also thank Mark McHale for playing on one side of the field this year, as the ‘Noles have switched to Right and Left Tackles, instead of the Tight Tackle and Split Tackle. Personally, I never quite understood TT and ST and thought it caused more confusion than it was worth.

For the Guards, they also will be staying on one side of the field this season. “Monster” Matt Meinrod should smack down opposing defensive lineman and provide lots of holes for Seminole running backs. Jacky Claude will be the other starter as a sophomore. 300 lbs. sounds like a good way to protect Drew Weatherford or Xavier Lee. John Frady, Geoff Berniard and Cornelius Lewis will server as the backups.

The only concern for the ‘Noles is health. The line is really only 2.5 players deep, but it needs to be 3 deep. Only next season’s crop of recruits can help that situation. For now, if the ‘Noles stay healthy, they will be very good and will likely fly under the radar for a while. If the injury bug bites the ‘Noles, however, the offense might sputter like last year. Keep your fingers crossed ‘Nole fans!

By Bill Kristoph

FSU suffered a huge loss early this summer when CB Antonio Cromartie went down with a knee injury. With Cromartie lost for the season, can the ‘Noles survive the plethora of bombs that opposing teams will throw at the relatively young secondary? In the past, young FSU defensive backs have surprised many teams. Why would 2005 be any different?

Some of you might be wondering how I can call a secondary young, when 3 of 4 starters are seniors. It is simple, Safety Kyler Hall red shirted last year, and will not dominate for the first few games this season. Behind him, you have sophomore Anthony Houllis and redshirt freshman Darius McClure. Our other Safety Pat Watkins, has only just regained the #1 slot over sophomore Roger Williams, after Watkins had a less than productive summer. Look for Williams to do great things with his playing time, even at second on the depth chart.

At CB it is more of the youngsters. Gerard Ross will anchor 6 underclassman cornerbacks. That is not to say the young guys are not talented, but they have yet to prove much out on the field. Tony Carter will likely be the other starting CB, with sophomore J.R. Bryant as his backup. Look for Trevor Ford to back up Ross.

No matter how you look at the situation, a lot of youth will see action in the secondary. Teams with veteran quarterbacks are going to pick on this and have some success at the beginning of the season. By mid-season, however, look for the secondary to have some shut down games. Combine that with the powerful linebackers and a very solid defensive line, and the ‘Noles might win out. Hang in there for the first few games though Seminole fans, it might be ugly at times.

By Bill Kristoph

When anyone talks about the 2005 Seminole Defense, you hear mainly about the talented linebackers. In fact, I’m willing to say that this edition of FSU linebackers will be the best in school history. They are so good and so numerous that talk of implementing a 3-4 in some situations is warranted. Why are they going to be great? Talent, talent, more talent and proven talent.

Projected Starters A.J. Nicholson, Ernie Sims and Buster Davis will wreak havoc on opposing offenses. Sims, if he sticks around for his senior season, will have a chance to be better than (Who’s our favorite player?) Mr. Derrick Brooks. A.J. Nicholson, the only senior starting, is always reliable and makes tough tackles in the open field. His solid play lets FSU be free with Sims and attacking opposing quarterbacks. Fans should see Buster Davis’ full potential for the first time. Expect this crew to force a lot of fumbles this season. I pity opposing running backs and wide receivers that run short routes. In addition to those fumbles, expect to see some opposing players walking off the field woozy.

Looking down the depth chart, the ‘Noles continue to be great. I think every team in the NCAA would love to have Sam McGrew as a starter. He and Marcello Church will see lots of action in the rotation happy Seminole defense. Expect McGrew to be #4 if the ‘Noles run any 3-4 defenses. I think it would be a great way to attack pass happy offenses on 1st or 2nd down.

Coach Steele’s influence has been evident over the past couple of years. Recruits are coming to FSU specifically to play for him. Combine that with FSU’s defensive philosophy of “everybody plays” and you have a winning formula for talent year in and year out. The 2005 edition is as good as advertised. Heck, Leon Washington might be right when he stated that the offense only needs to score 14 this year. The defense isn’t going to allow any more than that.

NCAA Press Release
http://www2.ncaa.org/media_and_events/press_room/2005/august/20050823_franklinstmtappeal.html

“The NCAA staff review committee has removed Florida State University from the list of colleges and universities subject to restrictions on the use of Native American mascots, names and imagery at NCAA championships.

“The NCAA Executive Committee continues to believe the stereotyping of Native Americans is wrong. However, in its review of the particular circumstances regarding Florida State, the staff review committee noted the unique relationship between the university and the Seminole Tribe of Florida as a significant factor. The NCAA recognizes the many different points of view on this matter, particularly within the Native American community. The decision of a namesake sovereign tribe, regarding when and how its name and imagery can be used, must be respected even when others may not agree.

“The NCAA position on the use of Native American mascots, names and imagery has not changed, and the NCAA remains committed to ensuring an atmosphere of respect and sensitivity for all who participate in and attend our championships. This decision applies to the unique relationship Florida State University has with the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Requests for reviews from other institutions will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Great job FSU Alumni, fans and friends (and even some enemies!). Your collective voice has been heard, and the NCAA has egg on their face for it! This is a big victory against the NCAA!

By Bill Kristoph

When you think about past ‘Nole Defensive lineman, you think of great names. Great names like Darnell Dockett, Corey Simon, Andre Wadsworth, Peter Boulware, Derrick Alexander and Odell Haggins. If FSU’s motto over the years has been “We don’t rebuild, we reload,” then the defensive line is its shining example. Linebackers often get the spectacular tackles and big plays, but defensive lineman win the battle where it counts, in the trenches. They are the main reason why so many great running backs and mobile quarterbacks have been shut down by FSU. Who will have the opportunity to add their name to the list of FSU’s greatest?

Defensive Ends:
Darrell Burston and Kamerion Wimbley appear to the be the favorites headed into the 2005 campaign. Some critics have said that these guys are a bit undersized, but their job is to run guys down and sack quarterbacks. The beef is in the middle of the line where it should be. In FSU’s defensive system, a constant rotation of fresh players bring youth into play too. Major contributions will come from Alex Boston, mark my words. D.J. Norris is a solid contributor in a backup role. Willie Jones will also see a lot of action and can be a sackmaster. Look for transfer Anthony Kelly to force turnovers.

Defensive Tackles:
Where’s the beef? In the middle of the line of course, where FSU likes to stuff up-the-gut runners. Broderick Bunkley, a senior, will anchor the inside and sophomore Andre Fluellen will do well to compliment Bunkley. Both are around 290 and will give opposing offenses fits. Aaron Jones might be a surprise contributor as a freshman.

The defensive line will be a merry-go-round of players like every other year. Who starts? Who cares? Sophomores will be contributing in key times of games just like seniors. Maybe that is why recruits love to come to Florida State. They know they will play early and often. If the ‘Noles can get more pressure on opposing quarterbacks this season, they will help out a secondary that has lost star player Antonio Cromartie. If not, expect opponents to try to exploit the passing game. Overall, the defensive line won’t be as flashy as the talented linebackers, but if the ‘Noles do well this season be sure to thank the d-line.

By Bill Kristoph

Heading into the 2005 season, most fans are paying close attention to the quarterback battle at FSU. With apologies to Xavier and Drew, a more interesting battle is brewing on special teams. Who will be the Seminole kicker when the season opens on Labor Day? Your suspects are, Gary Cismesia (SO), Chase Goggans (SO) and Graham Gano (FR, recruited as a punter).

Gary Cismesia Did a great job of relieving Xavier Beitia last year, until the Florida game. Has another FSU kicker cracked for good under pressure? Bet on Cismesia’s limited game experience to help him get the nod over Gano for the starting job, but don’t expect him to handle kickoffs for the entire season.

Graham Gano First team USA Today All-American, but then again FSU knows that kickers don’t always work out as planned. He has a booming leg, reminiscent of Sebastian Janikowski’s. Don’t be surprised if he handles kickoff duties, even if Cismesia wins the job for extra points and field goals. Gano could also be used in the event that FSU has a long attempt for a tie or win, as he made 3 field goals over 55 yards during his senior season of high school.

Chase Goggans The smallest kicker in the bunch and has yet to see game action. He will not win starting duties unless he can adjust to kicking off of the grass. Don’t expect a change from the previous two seasons (his redshirt and freshman years).

Kickers are a strange bunch. They can be the hero or goat at the end of a game, but that only scratches the surface of how they really affect FSU. The last great Seminole kicker, Janikowski, single-handedly pinned opponents at their own 20. Talk about making a defense happy. Opposing teams have a hard time driving 80 yards on a Seminole defense. Forget about the game or two that might be won on a field goal, the other 10 can be set up well by finding the guy that can pin them down.

As for Punter, the ‘Noles have no worries. Senior Chris Hall will be solid and average over 41 yards a punt. If the Seminole offense can move the ball at all this season, then Hall will have opponents pinned deep in their own territory. Behind him, Graham Gano is ready to help with his booming leg. The best case for the ‘Noles is that these guys rarely see any action, which means the offense is thriving. Certainly, there has better not be any flirting with the most punts in a game record, that Chris Hall almost broke last year versus N.C. State.

Many teams pay no attention to special teams, since they comprise so little of each game. Coach Bobby Bowden has won many games by taking advantage of opponents’ lack of special teams preparation. The difference between a 10 win season and 7 or 8, might be in finding a kicker to pin opponents in their own end, keeping the run-back penalties down and blocking a few more punts. It is time to return to the gambling ways of old to get those extra yards or points, when the offense can’t.