By Bill Kristoph

Ralph Friedgen must hate FSU. Once again, the Seminoles proved to be better than the Maryland Terrapins. Maryland blew a 24-14 lead, thanks to outstanding play by redshirt freshman QB Drew Weatherford, and a Seminole defense that held Maryland to 6 points in the second half. Kudos go to Wide Receiver, Greg Carr, not only for his touchdown catch, but for drawing a key pass interference call on 4th down. Carr continues to prove that he is a gamer. James Coleman, Willie Reid and Leon Washington all added their own touchdowns.

For Maryland, QB Joel Statham played solidly when given a second chance, after Sam Hollenbach left the game with an injury. Statham tore up the Seminole defense in the 2nd Quarter, while the Terrapin defense held FSU to 16 yards in the 2nd quarter. Thankfully for the ‘Noles, the game was a tale of two entirely different halves. The 35-27 final score, was held by the Seminole defense after holding the Terrapins on their final drive.

The win made for a happy homecoming for the Seminoles. Years ago, scheduling an ACC opponent for homecoming was a guaranteed victory, but in recent years that is no longer the case. The only blemish on an otherwise exciting game, was the fan reaction just before halftime. Seminole fans booed FSU off the field, and while it may have been a commentary on the play calling, it was unnecessary and plain ugly. Spoiled fans should have quickly looked to FSU’s history this season, which is that of a 2nd half team that adjusts to opponents. Down by 10, and knowing that they moved the ball consistently (albeit not scoring) the 2nd half was full of opportunity.

On a brighter note, the emotion shown by Drew Weatherford after scampering for his 4th quarter touchdown was what a leader needs. His excitement was genuine, and it rallied his teammates. FSU fans everywhere, should know a leader when they see one, and #11 has the potential to lead the Seminoles to many victories over the next few years. In a post-game interview, Willie Reid was asked about all of these talent freshman on offense and if he wished he could be around for a couple of more years. Willie’s simple response, “Yes,” foreshadows great things to come for FSU. While some Seminole fans will continue to focus on the negative, for the first time since the Weinke era, ‘Noles fan everywhere should believe the future is bright.

By Bill Kristoph

What the heck has happened the uniforms are Maryland? Seriously, I know the Under Armour inventor is a graduate, but it is possible to make the uniforms out of the fabric and still have them look nice. I dread the day that FSU gets the Nike Stripe… or even worse a VT left-shoulder-only trim color. Supposedly, uniforms don’t win games. I disagree. A uniform gives players a sense of pride, that makes them want to defend their turf. In effect, they want to “Protect This House.”

The ‘Noles will protect Doak on Saturday.’,'FSU is a top 10 team, that had a bad week against Virginia. Last week, had Drew Weatherford not been pulled too early, the offense would have rolled for the entire first half against Duke. In fact, aside from the Miami game, the FSU offense has been much brighter than the critics predicted. Even better, they get better as the game goes on, scoring 10+ points in the 4th quarter for the last six games. And on a shocking note, all but one FSU starting quarterback has thrown for 300+ yards against Maryland in a game. That all adds up to another productive day on FSU’s home turf, Doak Campbell Stadium.

Defensively the Seminoles need to play better. If Sam Hollenbach is healthy and given time in the pocket, Maryland will have success attacking FSU’s corners. Joel Statham is a less desirable option for the Terps, however, he has plenty of game experience to help Maryland if necessary. FSU needs to remember that not all pass interference calls are bad, but when one guy has 4 in a game, there is a problem. FSU also needs to stop the stupid late-hit penalties, by seniors, who never seem to learn.

If this game was in Maryland, Seminole fans would have to worry more about the outcome. Expect a full crowd for Homecoming at FSU. Cool temperatures will keep Seminole fans loud and proud. FSU has the better uniforms. That all adds up to an FSU victory.

‘Noles 38 Terps 10

FYI, The Seminole Soccer Team beat the Citadel 5-0 last night. The ‘Noles set a school record by holding Citadel to 0 shots on goal.

Perhaps the team is peaking at just the right time?

1. Quick and to the point headline about yesterday’s game: FSU is good; Duke isn’t.

2. What was the most interesting aspect for Duke fans on Saturday? The result of the basketball team’s Blue and White scrimmage across the street from Wallace Wade Stadium.

3. Duke LB Brendan Dewan in putting a spin on the somewhat less than plentiful attendance at the aforementioned Wally’s Stadium said earlier in the week, “Some teams have to have big crowds to play well.” For the 1-7 Blue Devils however, irregardless of the crowd size, they are remarkably consistent. team

4. The football facilities just must be the pits if you listened to Gene Deckerhoff. The stadium lights don’t work very well as Deckerhoff complained about often, the locker room is approximately the distance from Durham to Greenville, and my personal favorite, the radio interview spot is right next to the showers.

5. Here’s a fun fact (probably not if you are a certain defensive coordinator of a certain garnet and gold clad football team), and no it’s not about that stupid 15 foot walnut sitting out in the middle of no where, the Duke offense in its previous four ACC losses scored a grand total of 24 points.

6. After running backs Requan Boyette and Robert Drummer, Duke’s third best contributor to Duke’s effort was? The eleven penalties on Florida State.

7. After FSU executed its favorite play, the obligatory block in the back on a punt return, PT Willis commented to Deckerhoff, “I just don’t know what these guys are thinking sometimes.” Well obviously it’s not don’t block him in the back.

8. Here’s another fun fact. North Carolina 7; Virginia 5. Now why couldn’t the Cavs play like that last week?

9. In the pre-game radio segment, Bobby Bowden reflected on last week’s loss to UVa and on QB Marques Hagans, “That’s what great players are supposed to do, make plays.” Bobby obviously was busy with Duke at the time and missed that 14-28, 109 yard passing performance by Hagans against the Tar Heels.

10. Now we know why they have that hedge around the field at UNC’s Kenan Stadium; to feed that blue horned ram that nibbles on the thing all game long.

Bonus Gratuitously Random and Hugely Meaningless Thoughts

11. Dadgummit, with the gatros (their .) aka crocs not playing Saturday I reeeeeally missed Urban Meyer’s post game crying this week.

12. After Northwestern pasted the Spartans 49-14, you think that game changing blocked punt that sent Michigan State spiraling downward in the second half last week against Ohio State carried over to this week? Wonder which of the coaches head coach John L. Smith will blame that on?

13. If you didn’t see LB D’Qwell Jackson Thursday night animatedly imploring the Maryland defense to not give up against Virginia Tech, it’s no wonder Under Armour wanted be a sponsor of the Terrapins.

14. Well, on the bright side for the Tennessee radio broadcast team, the post game scoring summary didn’t take very long. Come to think of it, neither did Alabama’s.

15. Just a wild guess, but after his field goal specialist went 1-6 against LSU, do you think Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville will be trying out a new kicker this week? FSU may have wide rights and wide lefts. But at least the Seminoles don’t have “The Doink”. Yet anyway knock on wood or a goalpost in this case.

16. Sean McDonough commenting at the start of the third quarter with Penn State leading Illinois 56-3, “We can project that this will be Joe Paterno’s 350th win.” That sound you heard was the click of TV remotes of the few remaining viewers left watching that game.

17. I must admit I now agree 100 % with the NCAA on banning the University of Illinois’ nickname. The word “Fighting” should DEFINATELY be dropped.

By Bill Kristoph

After losing to Virginia last weekend, FSU was expected to come out and look very sharp against ACC doormat Duke. Instead of putting the ACC on notice that FSU is ready to run the rest of the ACC schedule and make it to the inaugural ACC Championship game, the Seminoles showed that they still might struggle against worthy opponents. The final score, 55-24, was a blowout, but those that were able to watch the game know that FSU looked like it was in a fog many times.

On offense the young guys showed that FSU has a bright offensive future. Greg Carr is quickly becoming the star of the show. His 6 receptions, 3 of them for touchdowns, led all Seminole receivers and leaves #89 among the nations leaders in receiving TD’s. Antone Smith picked up 2 touchdowns of his own, and had a beautiful 45 yard touchdown run early in the 4th quarter. Smith looked to be wrapped up for a 5+ yard loss, but broke a couple of tackles and streaked down the left sideline.

Drew Weatherford had another outstanding effort. I say it every week, he is FSU’s best option at quarterback. The Seminole offense follows him as their leader. He continually moved the ball down the field, blowing away any thoughts of an upset by the Blue Devils. Xavier Lee, looked good late in the game, but as it always seems to be the case, struggled during his early appearances. Until those problems are resolved, Seminoles fans should stop talking about any quarterback controversy. In overall good news, 14 different players had receptions against Duke.

The Seminole Defense looked very good for 90% of the plays. The other 10% was a big problem. Duke running back, Ronnie Drummer, had a TD and 123 yards rushing. At times, he made the Seminole defense look silly. The Duke kick return team seemed to gain 40 yards on each kickoff, which only contributed to making the ‘Noles look tired, distracted and not “up” for this game. On positive; Kyler Hall who deserves lots of credit. For a guy that never seemed to take a good angle when he was younger, now Hall always seems to create turnovers or be around them to recover.

On one other note, Gary Cismesia booted an impressive 49 yard Field Goal.

The Seminoles defense needs to wake up if FSU wants to play for the ACC title. For a unit that graded out to an A for the first four game, they have played C-like for the last three. The offense should continue to improve each week, especially if Drew Weatherford is protected from the pass rush. And, be sure to get the ball to Greg Carr. He is the definition of difference-maker.

Up next for the Seminoles is Maryland @ 3:30PM next Saturday.

By Bill Kristoph

Last year, the score was close until late in the ballgame. I’ve heard plenty of thoughts that this year’s game will look very much the same. Folks, this game is going to be a blowout. Sadly, Duke has to play whipping boy for FSU after FSU lost a game. Let’s revisit some history.

1998
After an unexpected loss to N.C. State, final score FSU 62 Duke 13.

2000
After an unexpected loss to Miami, final score FSU 63 Duke 14.

2004
After an unexpected loss to Maryland, final score FSU 29 Duke 7. At first glance, that’s not impressive, but when you think about how lowly the Seminole offense was last year, that is a highly productive day.

I think fans on both sides are starting to get the picture. The Duke football program is the doormat of the ACC. Not for lack of effort, but when you have fans that are waiting around until basketball season and the football stadium is empty, it’s tough to get fired up for a game. The Blue Devils will not hang around this season, since the FSU offense won’t be settling for field goals against them.

After two weeks of yelling from Defensive Coordinator, Mickey Andrews, I’m sure the defense will be ready to pound any and all players in Blue.

Three suggestions for FSU. Run the ball, we have two of the best in the nation, but nobody knows it because they get 7 carries per game. Get Greg Carr into the starting lineup. He is the best “out” option on the field and can get FSU a TD or 1st down nearly every time. Give Drew Weatherford time. Lately, he’s looked a lot like Ken O’Brien to me, thanks to an offensive line allowing a free-flow of defenders to harass him. If Drew puts on the number 7, it will be official.

Score Prediction: ‘Noles 55 Duke 3

Fred Rouse and Cornelius Lewis have been suspended for one game, both for a violation of team rules.

FSU recorded it’s 4th straight ACC Victory on Sunday. The Seminoles beat the Miami Hurricanes 3-1 and improved their overall record to 12-2. They also broke the school record for goals scored in conference, with 16 this season. Miami only managed 5 shots on goal for the entire game.

Way to go ‘Noles!

1. Virginia fans obviously enjoyed their homecoming game. Certainly they will be looking forward to their next win over Florida State. In 2015.

2. Worst sign (depending on your point of view of course) seen after the game: “Party like it’s 1995.”

3. Virginia head coach Al Groh likened FSU’s offense to NASCAR saying it’s like “Gentlemen, start your engines.” Looks like that engine may need a little tune-up.
4. Interesting game plan by FSU called the “Let’s see just how many penalties we can commit” strategy. Earned an A+. Somebody must have watched a lot of the LSU game earlier in the day.

5. Most understated comment on the first half: From PT Willis, “FSU will simply just have to play better in the second half”. To quote a famous president, mission accomplished. Eleven points over the ten scored in the first 30 minutes and only six penalties versus the seven accumulated in the first half. Now that’s progress.

6. Memo to the Seminole defense: This is a tight end. You may be fooled a bit because he is big like an offensive lineman. He often lines up right next to them. He often even blocks like them. But trust me, he is eligible to catch passes. After about the 47th catch in the game, that should have been obvious.

7. Excellent job by the FSU defense in stopping Virginia late in the third quarter. UNFORTUNATELY the Cavaliers by then had scored on six of seven possessions. And the one they didn’t score on they obviously liked the FSU game plan so much, they felt the need to commit a penalty taking themselves out of field goal range.

8. The bright side? Well, at least Paterno didn’t win either. Come to think of it, neither did Urban.

9. And speaking of Urban, that option attack can now be known as the QuagMeyer offense.

10. Not being known as one to watch many gatros (their .) aka crocs games that don’t involve FSU, I must say I’ve caught two of them already this season; Alabama and LSU. I really have GOT to start watching more gatros (their .) aka crocs games.

Bonus Abundantly Random and Grotesquely Meaningless Thoughts

11. A critical play in the LSU game occurred when orange and blue clad QB Chris Leak stepped over the line of scrimmage before he passed the ball. What is bumfuzzling is how can that possibly happen. I mean, there’s that big blue line I see right there on the TV screen. Don’t know how he could have missed it. Amazing also how they are able to repaint that thing so quickly on the field before each snap of the ball.

12. Memo to Urban: Sign that gatros (their .) aka crocs cheerleader to the football team. He was one of the few that actually caught a Chris Leak pass albeit out of bounds. And he took the hit to boot. Then again he may prefer catching flying female cheerleaders. I know I would.

13. And speaking of signs, seen at ESPN’s Gameday in South Bend, “Call Javon at .” with his telephone number included. Sure hope that guy signed up for the Do Not Call list. You can just hear telephone solicitors dialing now.

14. Looks like Clemson solved those cardiac late game losses problem by employing one simple tried and true strategy; blow them out early. The general consensus seems to be that Wolfpack fans weren’t particularly thrilled with that game plan.

15. Great job by the NC State defensive line in getting into Clemson’s backfield often. Lining up offsides will do that. Maybe that big blue line would help.

Bonus Bonus Abundantly Random and Grotesquely Meaningless Thoughts

16. Most puzzling statistic of the Boston College/Wake Forest game: With pouring down rain for days right into game time, the humidity at kickoff was only 97%. Just how much more wet does it have to get to reach 100%?

17. Most uninformative sideline report from the aforementioned game at Chestnut Hill: “The field is slick. The sideline is slick. It’s slick everywhere.” Here’s a thought. Do you think the precipitation in the area that was only outdone by that 40 days and 40 nights thing could have possibly had something to do with it?

18. And speaking of signs at Gameday, the best one seen based on a theme Hurricane fans are familiar with, “Catholics vs Condoms”.

19. Memo to Notre Dame’s groundskeeper: You have a message from the USGA. They were so impressed with your work they want you to oversee the growing of the rough at next year’s US Open. Small children and pets could have been lost in that stuff.