FSU is coming off a win against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. It was significant because it stopped a four-game losing streak, but it was also their first conference win in over a year (previous lost nine straight ACC games).
That victory was at home. This Saturday, they hit the road to face the Clemson Tigers. The Seminoles lost to Tigers a season ago, but they got one of their biggest wins of their undefeated regular season in 2023 at Clemson, marking the first time they beat them on Memorial Stadium since 2013.
Both teams haven’t has the type of season that they expected, but this game will still be a big one. Here are five defensive keys for Florida State as they look for their second consecutive win in ACC play.
Force turnovers
One of the quickest ways to get an advantage on the road is to force turnovers. With Clemson’s inconsistency at the quarterback spot and fumbling 12 times throughout the season, it would behoove Florida State to look to create some turnovers, especially earlier.
Win the field position battle
Florida State is averaging 40 points per game. If they can keep Clemson on their side of the field a lot, it will create easier opportunities for FSU’s offense to score. It will be important for them to try and establish an early lead.
Keep Clemson behind the chains as much as possible
This ties into the last point. Clemson only converts about 38% of their third down opportunities. If they can keep them behind the chains, that will aid in winning the field position battle. Florida State can put a lot of points with this being the case.
Neutralize running back Adam Randall
Winning at the line of scrimmage is always key in football. Florida State’s defense must take this aspect seriously with a running back like Adam Randall who is capable of being effective. He’ll make plays, but they need to keep them at a minimum by winning in the trenches.
Keep quarterback Cade Klubnik rattled
It’s been an up and down year for Klubnik in terms of his consistency. However, he can be effective if he has time to operate. The Seminoles’ defense has to knock him off his spot and force some bad throws and get Clemson’s offense off the field.
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This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: Defensive keys for Florida State vs. Clemson
Reporting by Matthew Lenix , FSU Wire / FSU Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
