ATS Sports Blog

2009 College Football Predictions

Florida State Seminoles

2008 Record: (9-4, 5-3)
Coach: Bobby Bowden, 34th year (309-91-4 at Florida St; 382-123-4 overall)
Off. Coordinator: Jimbo Fisher (3rd year)
Def. Coordinator: Mickey Andrews (26th year)
Returning Starters: 13, (8 offense, 4 defense)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: Yes (Christian Ponder)

Offense: Christian Ponder returns at quarterback, but he’ll be pushed by redshirt freshman E.J. Manuel, who missed most of the spring with a broken finger. Ponder struggled with 13 picks, but also became the first FSU qb to rush for more than 400 yards since Charlie Ward back in 1992. They also return all five starters on the offensive line. Their running game should improve. The running game has to improve as Jermaine Thomas returns as the leading rusher (482 yards). The top returning receiver, Taiwan Easterling, missed all of the spring with an injury. They always seem to find athletes here, but due to suspensions and off-the-field issues, they’ve lacked consistency.

Defense: The top player returning on defense is cornerback Patrick Robinson, who was named MVP of the spring drills. They return two on the defensive line, but have to replace two of the linebackers, including their top two tacklers of last season. They also must find new kickers and punters.

Outlook: Bobby Bowden returns for his 34th year with the Florida State Seminoles amid more controversy, but he should have another strong team in a weak ACC Atlantic Division. They face teams like BYU, South Florida and Boston College early on, so they will be tested early. The key will be the performance of Ponder, who showed flashes of brilliance last year.

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