Florida State football is entering a new era for the 2024 season, with key players such as Jordan Travis, Trey Benson, Johnny Wilson, Jaheim Bell, Keon Coleman, Braden Fiske, Jared Verse, Fabien Lovett Sr., Kalen DeLoach, Tatum Bethune, Jarrian Jones, Renardo Green, and Akeem Dent no longer donning the garnet and gold.
The coaching staff has recruited several new players, including quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, a transfer from Clemson and Oregon State known for his inconsistent short to intermediate passing accuracy.
The Seminoles also bolstered their running back lineup through the transfer portal, acquiring Alabama’s Roydell Williams and Indiana’s Jaylin Lucas. Additionally, they strengthened their offensive line with Alabama’s TJ Ferguson and Florida’s Richie Leonard IV, who will be crucial in reviving Florida State’s strong running game.
Head coach Mike Norvell’s offensive strategy emphasizes running the football. If the Seminoles succeed in this, it could open up passing opportunities for Uiagalelei.
After Monday’s practice, Norvell praised Richie Leonard IV, highlighting his strong performance. Leonard IV, who started all twelve games for Florida, was a standout on a struggling Gators team that missed bowl eligibility. The Seminoles need to fill gaps left by Casey Roddick and D’Mitri Emmanuel, and offensive coordinator/offensive line coach Alex Atkins has one of the most experienced units in the country.
With Leonard IV in the lineup, the Seminoles can rely on their effective counter-run game, especially against rivals like Miami, who struggled to defend against it in their 2022 matchup.
I’m excited to see how Leonard IV integrates into the offensive line this season for the Seminoles.
Leave a Reply