About being on par with Florida again.
“I think it’s huge…Florida’s been at the top of the country the past few years and that’s a standard we’re trying to get back to and where we want to be. But that’s your arch rival. So you have to keep up with the guy who’s your neighbor and your rival…because the Florida State fan base that’s how you’re measured by…”
On how FSU is allowing almost 14 points per game fewer than last year.
“We’re being sound in the run. We’re not giving up as many big plays. And our special teams are having a big effect. Our kicking game, our return game, our field position as we’re keeping teams backed up. And on offense we’re keeping the football and scoring points on our end and not always throwing it around and getting off the field. We’re shortening the games and we’re playing as a team very well.”
On Saturday’s crowd being like the dynasty days.
“From what I’ve heard from some of the old players, they said they don’t know if they remember it being as electric as it was (last night)…And I hope our fans and our players get used to those and we can repeat ‘em. And when they’re here like that, boy, it makes it easier for our players to play good.”
On Ponder’s arm tightening up again Saturday night.
“It did. He got hit on it again and they drained it again this morning, and he’s got doctor’s support and I think he’ll be good to go. That’s the way it’s been every week. So if he keeps playing like he’s playing, I’m happy.”
On the response from recruits.
“The high school kids and from the coaches and from the number of kids who were here, the kids who were excited, who saw the environment of Doak Campbell last night, it’s been great…We’re getting great response back and a lot of people are very interested.”
On the bend-but-don’t-break defense against the gators.
“Our guys are learning to play situational football, and play it with a lot more intelligence…and understand what teams are trying to do to you...which eliminates problems and become much smarter football players and allow them to execute better, and I think they’re doing a great job of that.”
When asked if Saturday ranks as one the top five days of his life.
“It was one of the great days as a coach. But not (because of) what it meant for me, but what it meant for our players and our seniors, what they’ve been through the last few years…And for those seniors to walk off that field and the emotion I saw in their eyes, it does rank as one of the top things I’ve been associated with, because of what they’ve been through.”
Comments? Questions? Kudos?