Posted by NoleCC

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.