Football fans everywhere are dreading the fact that September, and the start of the college season, is still five months away, but don’t fear! The Florida State spring game is only days away! Yes, DAYS. On Saturday, April 14 at 6 p.m. (gates will open at 4 p.m.). Students, alumni, and fans are eager to see what new head coach Willie Taggart has done with our boys these past few months. News sources everywhere have been raving about our recent recruits, but this game is all about the guys we saw last season. How has new coaching changed their game? Has it improved? Are we looking at an undefeated season for the Noles? These are the burning questions the spring game is likely to shed some insight on.
After losing our first-string quarterback, Deondre Francois, with a patella tendon injury in his left-knee during 2017’s pre-season game against Alabama, all attention was turned to the three-star quarterback, and freshman, James Blackman. At 6-foot-5, he had the perfect build for the position, which Francois lacked, but his overall weight of 195 pounds seemed to be a concern for coaches. Fans are hoping to see him a bit bulkier than he was last season, which would be an indication that training is earning results.
Recent practice reports from April 4 have disclosed that defensive tackle, Marvin Wilson, suffered a torn MCL injury and will be out for the rest of spring practices, including the spring game. Wide receiver, Nyqwan Murray, was also seen on crutches, observing practice from the sidelines, though his injury is unclear.
At the same practice, both James Blackman and redshirt freshman Bailey Hockman were seen throwing to receivers in an offense-only drill. Francois was also on the field trailing about five yards behind the pair, mimicking their throws and actions. It is unsure whether Francois will make an appearance in the spring game, but many fans are hoping for his return to the field, allowing Blackman to gain more practice before likely becoming our fulltime quarterback when Francois graduates at the end of next year.
FSU’s quarterback insecurity was not the only drama the team experienced last season. Head coach Jimbo Fisher decided to resign from Florida State and take a head coach position at Texas A&M in December of 2017. He did not go on to coach the Noles at their bowl game against Southern Mississippi, though the team won 42-13 under the guidance of interim head coach Odell Haggins. Willie Taggart, former head coach of the Oregon Ducks, has now taken over for Florida State. Fans and critics are eager to see how the new coach, who has put an emphasis on turning the team around, has made changes to their beloved Seminoles. After struggling to keep it together last season, fans are hoping to see a cohesive team with a strong offense and secure defense. The spring game will be a little peek into that progress, letting the rest of the country know if and how hard the Noles have been working these past few months.
On April 4, former head coach and football legend Bobby Bowden made a guest appearance, speaking to the team after warmups. Hopefully, this inspired our boys to come out strong and give us all a good game!
Make sure to grab your tickets, which are on sale now for $10 (students get free entry with student I.D.), and come see what your favorite team has been up to!