Posted by NoleCC

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.