Just one question for the panel this week: Does B.C. have a chance of pulling a colossal upset?
Teddy Hayduk - Statistically, anything is possible. I would say that there's always a cahnce B.C. can upset FSU but, realistically, it's infinitesimal. For this to happen, not only will B.C. have to play out of their minds on every single down, but Steve Addazio will have to coach a fantastic game. I would think the latter of those two is much more likely to happen. Steve is an excellent coach and strategist. However, I see FSU's size/speed/strength advantage shutting B.C. down as the game approaches halftime.
Wall St. Nole - Is it possible we could lose Saturday? Yes, sure. But it's unlikely. B.C. has 4 losses on the season, but one marquee win early in the season against a talented USC team. This game may be the best chance for FSU's defense to showcase its improvement. The run defense led by Mario Edwards and Eddie Goldman has really improved as of late. I expect them to have a big impact on this game. B.C. is awful in the passing game but defensively they have played well this year.
I expect the game plan to be similar to the past two: Stop the run and reduce the turnovers. Against the Offense, give them multiple looks including Nickle and the 3-3-5 while walking our DB's up to contain the outside edge. If we force BC into 3rd and long and contain the mobile QB, the Noles will waltz to their 27th victory in a row. Final score: 41-14 Noles.
Roswell Nole - Facing yet another team coming off a bye week — an extra week of rest and preparation specifically for FSU — it's certainly possible FSU does not win this game. Two other things work in B.C.'s favor — this is a textbook "trap" game for FSU sandwiched between two rival games, and everyone seems to get up for FSU and give them their best shot.
I would look for another slow start, not just because it seems to be in this team's DNA but also the bye week and BC being hyped for the matchup with #1(what committee?). Behind the "new" OL, I look for FSU to run the ball a lot against B.C., while yet another mobile former Florida QB (Jacoby Junior?) gives the Noles trouble early. It's tight for the first half, then FSU pulls away with the patented dominant second half. Final score: 37-17.
Seminole Steve - Once again, If the Noles play like they do each week there is always a possibility that we can lose a game. If we go down early and attempt a comeback in the second half we have to be able to stop the eagles on third downs. They are one of the best running teams in the nation and 2nd in the ACC in rushing. They can milk the clock and not allow Jameis and Co. to get the ball back.
With that said, I think after all that has happened this week (the very unfortunate events at the Strozier Library) will push the Noles to come out very fast and light up the scoreboard. There has been more of an emphasis this week in practice on coming out of the gates fast and not having to rely on a fourth quarter comeback. After the first series or two by B.C., I see the Noles completely shutting them down and taking control of this game, finally showing the potential we all know they possess. This game is going to be the start of hitting our peak as the best teams start to hit their peaks and get into rhythm late in the season. I see Jameis playing flawlessly and Mario Edwards having a big day as he has been quiet lately.
Old School Nole - Here's a possible wet blanket for Saturday. Rain. Right now there's a 20% chance late in the day, according to Channel 6 (WCTV). But some forecasters see the approaching front as unpredictable. If those showers arrive earlier than expected, it could put a premium on the ability to run, block and slog it out (Attention Karlos Williams). In which case, B.C. has the no. 4 ranked rush defense in the country, allowing only 96.6 yards per game. FSU is 36th, giving up 137.7 per. But then the Noles are no. 1 in that obscure stat called Finding A Way To Win. So wet or dry, Jimbo's guys add another W. Let's just hope they do it in a way that the Selection Committee sees as "controlling".
Comments? Questions? Kudos?