The Florida State offense looked impressive in the program’s week zero 47-7 win over Duquesne last week. Now, the Seminoles shift the focus to the LSU Tigers. Playing in the Allstate Kickoff on Sunday, Mike Norvell‘s Noles are ready to showcase a talented depth of offense. The Seminoles and Tigers have played nine times overall. FSU holds a 7-2 win advantage and has beaten LSU four straight times. However, these two prominent programs haven’t faced off since 1991. Looking ahead to Sunday, the Seminoles’ offense is the key to a win in New Orleans.
Florida State Offense Key to Win Against LSU
Last week, the Seminoles totaled 638 total yards of offense. The bulk of the yardage came from the backfield, where the team saw three running backs finish the game with 100+ yards on the ground. Treshaun Ward led with 127 yards and two scores on 14 attempts. Oregon transfer Trey Benson recorded 105 yards and a touchdown on 11 rushes. Lawrance Toafili had 105 yards and a score on 13 carries. Although it was an inferior opponent in Duquesne, the Noles ran the ball tremendously well. Not only did the team rush for over 400 yards, but Benson alone also had 16 missed tackles force. Talk about a power back that can elevate at the second level.
FSU quarterback Jordan Travis also put forth a solid outing. With 207 passing yards on 11-of-15 attempts, the redshirt-Junior led the offense down the field and did what he needed to do in order to set up scores.
How the Noles Offense Can Keep Pace With LSU
LSU’s offense is a bit of an unknown at the quarterback position. Brian Kelly knows who the starter is, but is waiting until Sunday to reveal the answer. In all likelihood, it will be Arizona State transfer, Jayden Daniels. However, FSU has to be prepared for either a dual-threat or a pocket passer in Garrett Nussmeier. Either way, the Florida State offense will have its work cut out in terms of keeping pace with LSU. The Tigers have playmakers all over the field.
From a defensive standpoint, LSU has an advantage over the Noles’ offensive line. With injuries plaguing the program, there is uncertainty upfront. Maurice Smith and Darius Washington both left the week zero game early. That surely isn’t the news Noles fans want to hear heading into a marquee game.
For this team to be able to go toe-to-toe with LSU, the offensive front has to block well and avoid letting LSU’s freaks of nature at the defensive line break through to the backfield. Making the right moves, keeping the feet planted, and not being pushed back to give up tackles is the key for the offensive line.
The Noles struggled last season up front mightily. Hence the reason that the o-line has to adjust on the fly for LSU’s monstrous defensive front. Players like Ali Gaye, BJ Ojulari, and Maason Smith could have their way with this offensive line if the Seminoles aren’t fully prepared for what lies ahead.
Florida State Needs a Win
After throttling Duquesne by 40, the Noles need another big-point victory. Beating LSU in its own backyard would make a huge statement early in the season. Not to mention, the ACC slate for FSU this season includes Clemson, NC State, Miami, Boston College, and Wake Forest.
If Norvell can coach his team to a marquee win, the Noles could be looked at as a potential bowl team. And, the hot seat talks would wind down.. at least for now. When 7:30 Eastern time arrives on Sunday, FSU will have a tough task at hand. However, the offense is the key to a big win.
