Posted by NoleCC

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.