#5, How will the FSU backfield establish itself as reliable?: This is a tough question, because on paper it is very obvious that Florida State has some talented players with unique skillsets at running back. The problem here is that the team's career rushing leader is returning to the field from a broken back suffered just six months ago, the team's leading rusher from 2011 has been limited to date because of a nagging back issue of his own, the 5-star bruiser back who desperately needs a full Spring of reps under his belt in order to grow at the position is facing an unfortunate off the field issue and the remaining talent, although outstanding, is a true freshman.

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Chris Thompson is a great kid and has worked extremely hard since arriving at Florida State in 2009. He represents the school well both on and off the field and Seminoles everywhere are rooting for his successful return to the field after breaking his back against Wake Forest in 2011. As of now, he has been cleared to play, which is obviously good news. The scary part is that how he will react to being pushed and how much he should be pushed at all is still very much in question. It is difficult to assume that he is 100% full go after such an injury. Devonta Freeman, entering his sophomore season and second spring camp, has the ability to be a very good back. He rushed for 579 yards as a true freshman behind a less than stellar offensive line and led the team in rushing touchdowns with eight. James Wilder Jr. has power and strength that is unmatched by anyone else the Noles could hand the ball off too. He proved as a freshman that he is still raw at the position and though many people feel he is better suited at LB, I actually believe he has the ability to establish himself as a good running back. If he is allowed to practice, it will be huge for his development and good for the team overall.

Mario Pender is the incredibly talented true freshman that many people have high hopes for. Pender may be the most talented back on the roster and perhaps the most talented FSU has signed in nearly a decade. He played questionable competition in high school, so how he adjusts to the pace and talent level around him and picks up the playbook will determine a lot this spring.

#4, Who emerges to provide depth in FSU secondary?: The Seminoles return several very talented, experienced and proven pieces to their secondary in Lamarcus Joyner, Greg Reid and Xavier Rhodes. The fourth piece to the puzzle appears to be rising junior Terrence Brooks at this time, but he will have to fight off the uber talented sophomore Karlos Williams. Behind the first four mentioned, the Seminoles have talent, but very little experience. Expect competition in this group to be a pretty big story over the next month leading up to the Spring Game. Rising sophomore Keelin Smith, Tyler Hunter and Nick Waisome are all solid candidates for taking over the third cornerback role. Waisome may have the inside edge on the other two, but two advantages Hunter and Smith have over other DB's is their size and versatility. Both spent their first years practicing as corners, but at 6'1 and 6'3 respectively, have the tools to play safety as well if needed. If all three of these young players are able to get the most out of this spring from a development standpoint, the Noles will be in very good shape depth wise. The other interesting piece here will be Lamarcus Brutus, high school teammate of Keelin Smith. Brutus was the less touted of the two, but is effective both in run support and coverage and will have his chance to compete as well.

#3, Can Willie Haulstead return to form?: It's been over a year since Seminole fans have seen Haulstead play. He's a big body receiver who many felt was going to be the Seminoles' best going into the 2011 season. Unfortunately, he suffered a concussion during a scrimmage game during the fall, which would be his second in one year. The previous one came in his career best game against UNC where he snagged 10 catches for 154 yards and one touchdown. The question here is how quickly he can get back into the swing of things, especially at a position group where FSU has plenty of players that have proven they can get the job done. It will be an uphill battle for Haulstead, but his talent is as good as any man's on the roster. The legitimate concern is that if he suffers another concussion, it could delay or maybe even end his career. Concussions are strange in that they impact every player differently and some prove to be more susceptible to them than others. Hopefully Mr. Haulstead has seen the last of his.

#2, Can EJ Manuel rebuild his confidence and command of the FSU offense?: As the Seminoles leader, Manuel endured injury and an inexperienced offensive line for much of the year, but ultimately it began to take its toll on him towards the end of the 2011 season. Manuel is a good quarterback, but he has the tools and ability to be great, especially at the college level. A lot of this will depend on his comfort level with the guys in front of him. The offensive skill guys around him are capable, but he will have to work on the recognizing the easier opportunities to get the ball to them in space. Having coach Fisher around for the entire spring will be a huge help.

#1, Can Florida State build a solid 8-10 deep offensive line?: No surprise here. Florida State's biggest issue last season was an injury decimated offensive line. During the year, literally 10 of Florida State's top 13 offensive linemen would miss significant time throughout the 2011 football season. David Spurlock, a three year starter, was never able to return to form after suffering multiple concussions. Starting LT and all-conference player Andrew Datko missed his entire final season with shoulder problems. Key reserve Henry Orelus missed the entire season as well and eventual starters Bryan Stork and Garrett Faircloth would miss time at one point or another as well.

There is the perception among many FSU fans that the situation is far more dier than it actually is, talent wise. The Seminoles brought in an impressive bunch in 2011, who is still working to gain experience. This Spring will be about building strength, confidence and continuity for the group that much of the team success will hing upon in 2012. Rising sophomores like Bobby Hart, Josue Matias, Tre Jackson and Austin Barron all have the makings of future starters, with a couple having the potential to be stars. These are the four who started against Notre Dame in the Champs Sports Bowl and ultimately had the light come on for them in the second half. Still, they are very inexperienced. The advantage the youngsters have on the older players exist both in the areas of natural size and talent.

It is not a foregone conclusion that the four 2nd year players will be starters. They will be competition and resistance, so that will be a story to watch as Bryan Stork and Garrett Faircloth, who started the bulk of the games in 2011, make their cases and the Seminoles find out what they have in jumbo JUCO transfer Daniel Glauser (6'6, 320 lbs.). Glauser may be able to come in and become a starter at tackle from day one. We will know more about him very soon.

Continue reading on Examiner.com Florida State Seminoles: 5 Questions for Spring Football 2012 - Tallahassee Florida State Seminoles | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/florida-state-seminoles-in-tallahassee/florida-state-seminoles-5-questions-for-spring-football-2012#ixzz1pOoaPKqj

Despite the excitement and anticipation surrounding his arrival, Snaer's first two seasons, although far from terrible, fell woefully short of the lofty expectations that were thrusted upon him early on. In Snaer's first two seasons in Garnet and Gold, the 6'5, Moreno Valley, California native would average a shade under 9 points per game and hover around 35% from deep. He was a streaky shooter and scorer, who at times seemed indecisive and uncomfortable within the FSU offense. Entering his junior season, there was plenty of buzz and talk of Snaer regaining his confidence and settling into his role as a team leader that would be able to put the Seminoles on his back and carry them to the next level. While this all sounded good, it is no surprise that some were skeptical as to how much of a difference there would be in his game.

Continue reading on Examiner.com Florida State's Michael Snaer shines bright - Tallahassee Florida State Seminoles | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/florida-state-seminoles-in-tallahassee/florida-state-s-michael-snaer-shines-bright#ixzz1overzchW

Positives

* Ball skills

* Agility/Body control

* Willing and aggressive blocker

Questions

* Route running

Stevens is interesting in the fact that he is a prospect that even most diehard recruitniks were unaware of as recently as a month ago. His highlight film changed that as he quickly became a You Tube sensation and has been able to garner several scholarship offers in the weeks after his film going live. The first thing that stands out about Stevens is his uncanny body control which enables him to adjust to the ball as it's in flight. Stevens is a receiver who showcases elite level agility as he is able to track the ball after it is delivered by the quarterback, adjust and contort his body positioning even after leaving his feet, and snatch the ball out of the air. Stevens is able to do this whether it be on well thrown balls in which a defender just has good position, on or slightly errant throws that he is able to convert into completions nonetheless. Stevens shows great footwork along the sideline as well having the presence of mind to drag his feet in bounds at the completion of yet another of his signature acrobatic receptions. While not the most thickly built receiver, Stevens has room for growth and plays the position in a physical manner. Whether it be by his aggressively hauling in passes away from defenders or his willingness to throw blocks in the open field, even if it might be away from the actual play itself.

Now, when catching the ball Stevens is a natural 'plucker'. Meaning he's very natural when it comes to catching the ball away from his body. However, Stevens is savvy enough to turn his back toward the defender and bring the ball into his frame in situations where he anticipates being hit. This subtle adjustment increases the likelihood of a receiver being able to maintain possession of a pass despite being contacted by an oncoming defender right after the catch. Stevens has good 'game' speed but isn't necassarily a burner. Nonetheless, he is able to outpace defenders once he's gained a step on them. Stevens has a long way to go in the area of route running and just doesn't seem to have the most expansive route tree as this point in time. That’s something that comes into play as there are instances in which he doesn't generate the separation you would anticipate for a kid of his talents. Stevens has loose hips and quick feet that allow him to showcase 'plus' open field running ability and elusiveness on punt returns. So the route running issues are most likely something that can be cleaned up via quality coaching as he has the short area quickness to be able to get in and out of breaks cleanly. Even now Stevens displays savvy in utilizing subtle moves and jab steps to get defenders to open up their hips, allowing him to gain a free release off the line. Stevens outpaces defenders more so after the catch as opposed to through the actual route so being able to generate separation at the line of scrimmage is a very good trait to have at his disposal while he develops into a more polished route runner. Stevens is still raw in some areas but has the size, hands, and overall physical ability to become a true number one target at the collegiate level once he becomes more proficient at the technical aspects of the wide receiver position.

Sept. 1: Murray State

Sept. 8: Savannah State

Sept. 15: Wake Forest

Sept. 22: Clemson

Sept. 29: @ South Florida

Oct. 6: @ NC State

October 13: Boston College (Parents’ Weekend)

October 20: @ Miami

October 27: Duke (Homecoming)

November 8: @ Virginia Tech

November 22: @ Maryland

November 29: Florida

FSU fans had been waiting (read as: bracing themselves) for the long-delayed release of the ACC Football Schedule, and today’s schedule was met with bewilderment as Seminole faithful had nothing major to gripe about. Kudos to the ACC brass for that, but in reality all this means is that they’re finally doing their jobs (or did with FSU, at least.)

What makes a “good” ACC schedule? Each of the twelve conference teams is an asset, as is each matchup of two of those teams. Schedules are all about maximizing those assets by making sure that the conference gets as much out of their TV contracts as possible and by making sure that those teams are not put at a disadvantage when it comes to facing teams outside the conference.

Keep in mind that not only can the conference not predict the future, but that ACC teams have their out-of-conference games already scheduled. Since the conference matchups are predetermined, it’s a matter of making them fit the calendar, and it’s impossible to make everyone happy. But, the rough spots should be spread around to the greatest degree possible, and the conference’s primary goal needs to be to schedule each team as optimally as possible, regardless of who they are or how big a brand they are. What this means is that Duke has just as much right to gripe about travelling to Tallahassee and then hosting Clemson on consecutive weeks as Virginia Tech would.

That being said, the secondary goal is to maximize exposure by trying to garner the best bowl bids possible. The conference lucked out last year with Virginia Tech getting the Sugar Bowl bid, and the while the Hokies fell just short against Michigan the financial bump the conference got with that extra BCA payout was not insignificant. Had the Hokies not received the BCS bid, chances are they’d have slid to the Chick-Fil-A, bumping Virginia to the Sun and everyone below them down a notch.  Gripe about the BCS all you want, but in 2011 few entities benefitted as much as the ACC did. The best way to position themselves to reap BCS at-large dollars again is to schedule as effectively as possible, and then let their main assets do what they do.

Here is a to-do list for creating a “good” conference schedule.

1.  Anticipate big games and give them optimal scheduling, which ideally means that both teams come in on equal footing: neither had an emotionally-draining rivalry or major OOC game the week prior, neither team has a rivalry or premiere OOC game the next week, and both teams come off equal rest. An example of how badly a conference can fail at this would be last year’s FSU-Clemson game, in which the two favorites in the Atlantic Division faced off with FSU coming off the Oklahoma game and Auburn coming off the Auburn game. This year, most of the major ACC games – VT/FSU, VT/Miami, FSU/Miami, VT/GT, FSU/Clemson, etc. – are scheduled fairly well, unless you’re a Virginia Tech Hokie (more on that later.)

2.    Maintain home/away balance so that a team doesn’t have to hit the road three times in a row or stay home for a full month. Granted, since schools set their OOC games and the conference works around it, you can’t blame the conference for every perceived inequity, i.e., FSU having four home games during the month of September; it’d be nice to have a road trip in place of the Wake Forest game to ensure another home game later in the fall, but then again that road trip could’ve been to Miami or VT, so beggars can’t be choosers.

to maximize TV exposure and utilize those assets (there’s that word again) most fully. Rivalry weekend aside, it’s inexcusable for the ACC to cannibalize itself by scheduling multiple potentially big games on the same day, thereby ensuring that a game that might be worthy of a coveted night slot gets the short end of the stick and kicks off at noon. Each weekend should have a clearly-evident conference game of the week, and while it’s impossible to accurately predict the future (before last season started, who saw UVa @ FSU having the ramifications it would?) some games still jump out at you when glancing at the schedule, and there should not be more than one of those games a week.

Realize, though, that making sure these games “stand alone” by scheduling them on Thursday night serves no one. Thursday night games are not only hard for fans to get to, but they’re disruptive to the teams, unpredictable, and subject to much more competition from work/school functions and other television offerings.  The ACC needs to get out of the Thursday Night business immediately, and if they must schedule these ridiculous games at least don’t waste a marquee matchup on them. I look forward to watching FSU play in Blacksburg on Thursday night, November 8^th, but other than the mildly-interesting UNC/GT matchup, the following Saturday’s ACC slate is about as compelling as an insurance seminar. Poor asset management by the conference in having their two biggest brands on the shelf on a Saturday that late in the season.

4.   Don’t put any team at an unnatural advantage or disadvantage through scheduling. A great example of this is what happened to Virginia Tech this year, as they face FSU, Miami and Clemson – their three biggest conference opponents – with all three coming off a bye week. Last year the SEC did this to Alabama as well, with one of those games being the LSU loss.

Another component of this is climate. One of the major reasons that FSU has had problems getting marquis teams to come to Tallahassee is that many big non-Southern schools would cite heat and humidity as reasons to not want to come play at Doak. How many times did FSU go to Nebraska, Ohio State, Michigan and Notre Dame without getting a return trip? Notre Dame did come once in 2002, but it took two trips to South Bend and a late-season neutral site game in Orlando to make that happen.  An example of how to fail at this would be backloading Boston College’s schedule with conference home games late in the season, forcing a disproportionate number of  typically-southern ACC teams to go play in the wet and cold. Watch for this when Pitt comes online next year as well, because late-season Pittsburgh weather will quickly  become one of the biggest potential variables in the conference. It’s inevitable that teams will have to play in climates to which they are unaccustomed, and frankly they should do so from time to time. But there’s potential for the conference to put teams at an advantage or disadvantage through scheduling such games, and that should not happen.

5.   Pay at least some attention to large OOC games, particularly intraconference rivalries that take place on the same weekend every year. This year, Clemson draws NC State a week before their annual hate match with South Carolina. Georgia Tech gets Duke a week before the Georgia game, and FSU has to travel to College Park a week before coming home to host Florida. Tech and FSU can’t complain too badly, but Clemson facing a team that beat them by four touchdowns last year is troublesome. Contrast this with how the SEC teams in those games schedule 1AA cupcakes those weeks, and how the SEC allows for that is another example of how they do a far better job of managing their assets (Florida, Georgia and South Carolina respectively face Jacksonville State, Georgia Southern and Wofford before their intrastate rivalry games.) Part of this is the fault of the individual teams; I’ve said repeatedly that FSU should take matters into their own hands and schedule a directional school the week before Florida and make the ACC schedule around it, but at the same time the conference has a vested interest in how their teams perform on the national stage, and the ACC's scheduling philosophy has been of little help in that regard.

So, by these criteria, how did the ACC do? Better than last year, and under more difficult circumstances, but there’s still room for improvement. Virginia Tech is the big loser, facing their three biggest conference rivals off bye weeks. FSU’s biggest gripes are having four straight home games to open the season  -- meaning they hit the road for five of their last eight – and being on the road before the Florida game, but neither of those issues even approach how poorly the conference has scheduled in years past.

As far as FSU is concerned this schedule is a major step in the right direction when it comes to how ‘Noles fans view the ACC as a conference, but given how poorly the Hokies were scheduled it remains to be seen as to whether the conference has finally turned the corner in terms of asset management, or whether this decent slate for FSU is just an anomaly. I’ve said all along that the perceived and real scheduling and officiating slights FSU has taken from the ACC have been more a matter of incompetence than bias. The fact that the conference only did a good job in managing one of its two biggest assets via the schedule doesn’t change my mind on that count.

Positives

* Ballskills/awareness

* Change of direction

* Foot quickness

Questions

* Size

* Long speed

Shelton was FSU's second commit for the 2013 recruiting cycle having accepted an offer after a stellar showing at the 2011 Jimbo Fisher Camp. An incoming junior at Plantation High School at that time; Shelton was one of, if the best cover guys at the event. Now Shelton is a smaller corner, measuring in at just under 5-9 and 160 pounds. But, he is a player who possesses excellent hip turn ability which allows him to smoothly transition out of his backpedal. One thing I've noticed is that Shelton has improved from his sophomore to junior seasons in the area of staying low in his stance. Not only at the line, but also through his backpedal, which helps his ability to turn and run with receivers deep. Shelton shows discipline and savvy beyond his years as he keeps his eyes locked unto the midsection of his assigned receiver, and often disguises his coverage responsibility by showing press-man at the line and then passing the receiver off into the intermediate zone. His two best attributes are probably his quick feet and length as he possesses a very long wingspan for a player of his height, enabling him to play bigger than his listed measurables. Very willing to press receivers at the line and will generate his share of PBU's and interceptions due to his length and the great awareness that he shows in being able to locate the football in the air. He is one of the most aggressive kids I've seen this year in terms of attacking the football while it's in flight.

Shelton showcases elite foot quickness that allows him to mirror receivers as they get in and out of their breaks. His long speed is a concern as there are instances in which a receiver is simply going to win on the route and create separation. Shelton will need to improve his long speed in order to make up ground in instances where a receiver gets a step on him. Right now, he best projects as a zone corner at the college level with very good plant and drive ability. Will need to bulk up at least 15 pounds in order to have the overall strength to effectively play both press-man at the line, and re-route receivers through zones. Is a willing tackler and flashes some aggressiveness in pursuing ball carriers, but will need to improve his technique in order to be able to bring bigger wide receivers and running backs to the ground consistently. His size will remind some of Greg Reid, but Shelton utilizes a more disciplined style of game and is less reliant on taking chances, preferring to use his elite quickness and technique to put himself in position to make game changing plays.

RB, 5'10 195 lbs.

2011 Stats: 115 carries 1268 yards 16 Touchdowns (4 kickoff return touchdowns)

Positives

* Straight line speed

* Acceleration

* Top shelf athleticism for the running back position

Questions

* In line running skills

* Ability to generate yards after contact 

Read More and see Video after the jump

Green is a back who is thought of first and foremost as a homerun threat. However, as he moves up to the collegiate level, many other variables will have to be taken into account in order to project what his overall consistency as a ball carrier will be. Now, Green is a true “two stepper”, a player that possesses the ability to get to top speed almost instantly. Green maximizes this attribute by using little wasted motion in the backfield, identifying creases, and then using his superior burst to accelerate through the hole and into the second level. Green's long speed is evident in the way he is able to consistently stride past defenders in the open field giving up nary a step once ahead of them. Now Green is elusive, but not a 'dancer' so to speak. He uses sudden changes of direction to elude pursuers at the second level or front seven defenders who have beaten the blocks of his offensive linemen and have penetrated into the backfield. Physically, Green has a compact frame and a powerful looking lower half, but runs upright and presents too big of a target for defenders, making him more susceptible to injury or wearing down during the course of a game from too many direct shots. Also, Green needs to do a better job of running behind his pads in order to generate the necessary leg drive needed to gain yards after contact. Development in this particular aspect of his game can do a lot in determining whether he can be a true “load” back or more of a rotational type of runner. Now, Green has a tendency to reverse field in an attempt to rip off huge gains but will need to stay more disciplined in college as the speed advantage he currently possesses in high school will be reduced significantly at the FBS level. He will need to adjust to this by pressing the play side hole first, then cutting backside only when defenders have lost their gap integrity (Which requires patience that younger backs take time to develop). Otherwise, he needs to stay play side and simply take the yards that are available. There is no doubt in his ability to make this adjustment as even now he shows an uncanny ability to press the edge, stick his foot in the ground, and quickly accelerate past the inside shoulder of over pursuing defenders.

During this fantastic seven game stretch, the Seminoles have knocked off three ranked opponents in a three week stretch and done so in an impressive fashion. Though their offense is still not fantastic, it looks far more fluid and much less disjointed. It's fair to say that many have been waiting for the Noles to have a lapse in their focus at some point over the past three weeks, but that has not happened. They have kept up the intensity and continued to play well, which is extremely impressive. The Noles will take on Boston College tonight, a team who is currently 7-16 overall and are carrying a streak of their own, of the losing variety. The Eagles have dropped six straight and Florida State is looking to make it a cool seven.

Michael Snaer has been playing very well as of late with outstanding confidence and more and more confidence as the season goes on. He is looking like the player he was expected to be out of high school. Snaer is shooting 41% from beyond the arch on the year and averaging nearly 14 which is very well above his career average. It's nice to see the Noles with seems to be a consistent go to weapon on offense. Tip off tonight is at 7:00 p.m

The Needs:

The Florida State Seminoles addressed needs at linebacker with the early commitment of Stone Mountain (GA) High School linebacker Ekeme "Markuss" Eligwe and by flipping the commitment of Jacksonville First Coast High School athlete Reggie Northrup who was previously committed to Miami. Florida State's linebacker depth needed to be addressed due to the graduation of three time leading tackler Nigel Bradham and the disciplinary issues and ultimate departure of freshman Arrington Jenkins. Northrup is gap crashing, hard hitting, tackling machine, with excellent instincts who should be able to thrive behind the Seminoles constantly reloading defensive line. He presents a slightly different skillset than the majority of the linebackers currently at FSU due to being a pure "Mike" backer who carries more athleticism than current starting middle linebacker Vince Williams and his projected backup Jeff Luc who are bigger and stronger. Northrup brings combination of instincts, physicality, and skill that may not only surprise FSU supporters, but also possibly make Reggie a fan favorite. Eligwe projects as an outside linebacker who will likely be one the most athletically gifted backers on the team. "Markuss" as he is called, is still a bit raw after spending the majority of his snaps at quarterback this past high school season. With the Seminoles bowing out of the running for Miramar Cornerback Tracy Howard late in the process it was important to land a top tier cover cornerback. That specific need was met with the commitment of former Notre Dame Pledge; Potomac (MD) high school speedster Ronald Darby who will also run track for the Noles.

Reloaded

Defensive line is definitely a position of strength with the Noles as that strength was fortified with the additions of Defensive ends Mario Edwards Jr. and Chris Casher, and defensive tackles Eddie Goldman and Justin Shanks who health permitting should allow the front four to be remain a team strength for at least the next few seasons.  In his time at Florida State it seems defensive coordinator Mark Stoops has a particular affinity for versatile defensive backs (Lamarcus Joyner, Terrence Brooks, Keelin Smith, and Tyler Hunter) who possess the ability to play either the cornerback or safety positions. Two of those hybrid type of players were found in Kenneth "PJ" Williams of Ocala, Florida and San Antonio, Texas athlete Colin Blake who may just end up being the find of this cycle.

Staying pat

Offensive line was a source of much frustration among Seminole fans this past season. However, most supporters needed to realize that problems at offensive line are much more effectively addressed via player development as opposed to a quick fix. Florida State understood this for bringing in two of the top 10 JUCO offensive linemen in powerful Swiss native Daniel Glauser and the huge but splendidly athletic Menelik Watson who originally hails from England. One of these two should be able to compete for a starting job along the offensive line while both should see significant playing time over the course of the 2012 season.

The misses

Early in the cycle wide receiver Chris Black and longtime Seminole target spurned Florida State in the summer to pledge to the Alabama Crimson Tide. While receiver was not a huge need at all for Florida State, Black had been recruited since the ninth grade by Florida State wide receivers coach Lawrence Dawsey. The primary target of offensive line coach Rick Trickett was Tempe, Arizona Offensive Tackle Andrus Peat. The Seminoles recruited Peat as effectively as could be expected considering the distance and the fact that Peat's older brother Todd Peat Jr. is a freshman defensive tackle at Nebraska. Surprisingly, Peat spurned the chance to play with his brother instead choosing to sign with the Stanford Cardinal to help round out their stellar offensive line class.

One that should have been pursued harder

While Wide Receiver wasn't a big need this cycle Florida State indeed, but would have done themselves well by landing Miami North western High School receiver Amari Cooper. Cooper is a smooth athlete who combines the size, hands, speed, body control and overall physical gifts necessary to blossom into a true #1 receiver at the BCS level. Early in the season Cooper made his commitment to the Alabama Crimson known shortly after gaining an All Star invite despite missing the almost all of his junior season due to a broken wrist. Cooper went on to score two touchdowns (one receiving TD and one punt return score) in the ESPN televised Under Armour All Star Game.

The defections

The will always be kids who commit to a team and then later find a more desirable opportunity elsewhere. This occurred on signing day with St. Petersburg, Florida defensive end Dante Fowler who choose to sign with the Florida Gators and Alphonse Taylor, who committed to play offensive line for Florida State during the summer but later opted to enroll early at Alabama University for the chance to play for the Crimson Tide's 3-4 defense at the coveted nose tackle position

In summary:

Florida State was able to land the consensus number two class in the nation despite being limited on the scholarships they were able to issue. This combined with the fact that despite Dante Fowler Jr.'s signing day defection to the University of Florida, the Gators missed out on several late targets and will finish behind the Seminoles in the recruiting rankings even if they do manage to land Olney (MD) wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Miami, while landing a top ten class in the rankings, doesn't nearly have a class that replicates the overall quality of FSU's as there are only about eight of the their 33 commits who would realistically receive committable offers from Florida State. The only mistake in my estimation is that Florida State did not properly prepare itself in the event of Fowler's flipping to Florida. Something which had been rumored for a long time, came to fruition on signing day, and most likely had been in the works for a while. Indeed, offers were made to defensive ends such as Lawrenceville, Georgia (By way of England) Francis Kallon (A Georgia Tech commit for most of the 2012 cycle) and Leonard Williams of Daytona Mainland High School (Who ended up committing to USC). But the staff did not allow itself enough time to properly pursue either of the prospects due to the Florida State coaching staff reaffirming its commitment to Fowler Jr. and then Fowler Jr.'s reaffirming his pledge and subsequently flipping to Florida without giving the staff sufficient notice. Other than that, the Florida State staff flexed superior recruiting muscle for the second consecutive year in securing an elite class despite the efforts of several high profile programs attempts at poaching FSU's recruits.

Before we close the door on the 2012 recruiting class, and look towards the 2013 class (recruiting never stops), we must take a final look at this year's class, primarily amongst Florida's big three universities. There is no greater recruiting hot bed than the state of Florida. That has been proven year after year with the number of blue chippers that have signed and excelled at D1 programs. On any given Friday night during the fall, you can make your way from Dade County, all the way up to Jacksonville, and find a great deal of special athletes putting their talents on display. 

Being that the state is so fertile, it makes it so each of the big 3 (FSU, Miami, and Florida) can land their fair share of talented prospects, this year was a prime example of that. Today, Florida State, Miami, and Florida were able to secure top ten recruiting classes. We will take a look at the pros and cons of each class, starting of with the Miami Hurricanes.

It has been evident that the Canes have been down the past few seasons, and while you can point the finger at a number of things, primarily a coaching change, the one thing that sticks out to me is the lackluster recruiting classes they have brought in. It seems like just yesterday, that Coach Randy Shannon was putting the finishing touches on what promised to be the most heralded recruiting class of all time. That class, was their 2008 recruiting class that featured 12 ESPNU 150 commits, (and what seemed like Miami Northwestern High School's entire Senior class). Names like, Arthur Brown, Jacory Harris, Marcus Fortson, Aldarius Johnson, and Brandon Harris highlighted the class that was supposed bring Miami back to the national dominance. Four years later, it's easy to see that those expectations, both personal and on a team level, were not met. This could be attributed to a number of things, coaching, work ethic, a little of both, but at the end of the day Miami simply has not got it done both on the field and with recruiting in some time.

Enter Al Golden. Mr. shirt and tie himself, took over for Randy Shannon last season and had a subpar 2011 campaign. We won't dig to deep into the Hurricanes 2011 season, because that will take entirely too long. Instead let's focus on the job Golden did with his first recruiting class in Coral Gables. Golden inherited a team with many glaring needs, as he will be losing his best players, either early to the NFL, or to graduation. The Miami Hurricanes signed 34 recruits on NSD, yes I said 34. As, I stated above the Hurricanes lost a lot of talent and production from this past season and are also preparing for NCAA sanctions that are likely to come, with severity yet unknown. Golden was able to secure signatures from the likes of CB Tracy Howard, RB Duke Johnson, and WR's Malcolm Lewis and Angelo Jean-Louis all elite prospects, that any number of other big time schools, including Florida State and UF, would have been happy to have. The Canes also received signatures from defensive standouts, DL Jelani Hamilton, and LB Rafael Kirby. 

Unfortunately for Golden, the rest of the names in this class, aren't ones that will instantly jump out at you. Their is a major drop off after the first 8-12 names you see in this class. While every class cannot be littered with 5* prospects, it is easy to tell that Miami is simply not getting the caliber of athlete they once were, and that fence that once surrounded Dade and Broward Counties, has long been torn down. While I do admit that keeping players like Howard and Johnson at home is a great sign for Golden moving forward, it's not enough for me to say that Miami is once again on the level of Florida and Florida State, when it comes to recruiting the state of Florida.

Miami's Grade: B

Now we turn our attention to Gainesville, and the Florida Gators. Above I discussed Miami's 2008 recruiting class, which never panned out, and when I think of that class I cannot help but think of the Gators 2010 recruiting class. If you thought Miami's 2008 class was impressive on paper, get a load of this. The Gators brought in 27 recruits, 17 of which were ranked in the ESPNU 150. Folks, that's just insane. That included four prospects in the top ten, and an unbelievable overall defensive haul. Coach Urban Meyer was at the helm of the Gators, and simply could not miss in the recruiting trail that season, it was fate for Meyer to land that class, (or was it faith?) Well, that's a story for another time, but it didn't take long before that class began to faulter. The headliners of that class wasted no time making noise at Florida, but not on the field. From arrests, to boycotts of practice, to threats of transferring because they felt they weren't treated accordingly, this class began to fall apart, rather quickly.  

While the jury is still out on some of those elite recruits, many of them have already left the program or have yet to pan out, proving that stars and rankings isn't an exact science. This past season was the first as Florida head coach for Will Muschamp, who came over from Texas. The Gators went through, what I guess we can call a rebuilding year, and barely finished above 500%. Muschamp took to the recruiting trail this past season, looking to address serious needs that the Gators had. On Wednesday, Muschamp and Florida signed a very defensive heavy class of 23 recruits. While the Gators didn't sign 17 ESPNU 150 commits, they did sign 9, which is solid.  Muschamp signed a stellar defensive class, led by DE Johnathan Bullard, CB Brian Poole, and S Marcus Maye. They also added depth to the offensive line with OT D.J. Humphries, and OG Jessamen Dunker. You also can't look past TE Kent Taylor, and RB Matt Jones. 

While this recruiting class may lack the names of playmakers at the top like years past, the Gators put together a solid class that addressed their needs. But, what will go down as a solid class, could have been a epic class had Mucshamp and it staff closed better on NSD. The Gators still have a shot with standout athlete Stefon Diggs, who didn't sign and will visit Maryland this weekend, but missed out on elite prospects, CB Tracy Howard, WR Nelson Agholor, DE Darius Hamilton, DE Leonard Williams, and OLB Josh Harvey-Clemons. All prospects that they seemed to lead for at one point in their respective recruitments. We all know that you win some, and you lose some in recruiting, but 0-5 on those prospects is not good, no matter how you slice it. 

Florida's Grade: B+

And now on to the Seminoles of Florida State. Now, I find it very fitting that since we took a look back at the Canes, and Gators top classes in recent history, that we also take a look back at the Seminoles best class in recent memory. It just so happens that class, was the 2011 recruiting class, which was ranked number one by ESPN. The 2011 recruiting class was Jimbo Fisher's first official class as head coach, and he wasted no time stockpiling elite talent in Tallahassee. Though it is way, way to early to disect the Noles 2011 recruiting class, it is safe to say they got off to a better start than both Miami's 2008, and Florida's 2010 class. Players like Tim Jernigan, Bobby Hart, Devonta Freeman, Tank Carradine, and Rashad Greene all significantly contributed on the field this past season. Other players from that class such as Karlos Williams, Nick O'Leary, and James Wilder Jr, among others, showed flashes, and will likely make big contributions on the field this fall. It must be noted that, Fisher and his staff capitalized big time from being the longest tenured coaching staff among these three schools.

Jimbo Fisher and his staff used last year's number one class as momentum towards putting together another top class. This year Florida State didn't have many available scholarships and signed 19 young men. While the Seminoles didn't have many spots in this class, they were sure to target the cream of the crop, and in the end put together a tremendous recruiting class, including 10 ESPNU 150 recruits. This class is headlined by a group of defensive lineman including, Mario Edwards Jr., Eddie Goldman, Chris Casher, and Justin Shanks. The Noles also added dual threat quarterback Jameis Winston, and a running back in Mario Pender who is an early enrollee. CB Ronald Darby and WR Marvin Bracy are not only outstanding football players, but both have world class speed, and will also run track while at FSU.

Being that the Seminoles could only sign 18-21 kids with this class, the coaches needed to be on point with their evaluations and selective with the offers they handed out. At the conclusion of signing day you could see that the FSU coaching staff was very pleased with the way they closed, and very excited about the level of talent in this class. While the Noles may have missed on linebacker Josh Harvey-Clemons or wideout Ricardo Louis, they were able to close with a bang on NSD, with their additions of DB Colin Blake, arguably the nation's top corner in Ronald Darby, and the nation's top d-tackle Eddie Goldman. The Seminoles will take a full class next year (23-28) and will look to again be in contention to land the nation's top recruiting class. 

Florida State's Grade: A

While all three of these programs compiled top ten recruiting classes in 2012, two classes stuck out. Those two classes were Florida and Florida State. I must first say that I am very impressed by what Al Golden did with all of these NCAA sanctions, that are yet to come down. He was able to convince south Florida's best two players (Howard and Johnson) to stay home and attend Miami, and he was also able to bring in a few solid athletes, with very high ceilings (Lewis, Hamilton, McCord) If the NCAA doesn't totally handicap Golden and Miami, it is possible that they can make their way back, but they are still a ways away from FSU and Florida, both on the field and on the recruiting trail.

As I said earlier, Muschamp and his staff have brought in a very solid 2012 class. The one thing that bothers me about this class, is that I can't stop thinking about how good it should have been, if they didn't fall flat on NSD. The Gators brought in future playmakers (Maye, Taylor, Bullard) and also added depth along the offensive and defensive fronts, which is a must if you want to be a title contender. All in all, Muschamp has to be happy with this class, but he also knows if he and his staff would have closed better, this could have been a national championship caliber class. 

This brings me to the Seminoles, who I feel (as you can already tell by the grades) brought in the best class in the state of Florida, and the second best class in the nation (Alabama, just wow). I feel this way for a few reasons, the first being the overall talent of this class. FSU signed 19 players, 10 of which were in the ESPNU 150. Some perspective for you, FSU's #1 2011 recruiting class had 29 signee's, 12 of which were ESPNU 150 recruits. You can see that the FSU coaches were not playing, and targeted the best of the best and not only did they target them, they got their man, almost every time. I also like that the FSU coaches did not reach for any prospects. While they didn't have many misses, even if they did, the plan was not to take a recruit of a lower caliber. Between this year's class and last year's class, Florida State has become one of the deepest and most talented teams in the nation, and the Seminoles are poised for a national title run. 

Something else that I noticed, which I thought was interesting, and something that I purposely haven't addressed yet. As we all know by now, longtime FSU commit Dante Fowler Jr. decided to spurn the Noles and sign with the Gators on NSD. FSU then in turn, was able to flip longtime Miami commitment Reggie Northup, who went on to sign with the Noles. Not too long after, The Hurricanes were able to get a commitment from longtime Gator lean, Tracy Howard. I thought this was a promising sign for recruiting in the state of Florida, which as we all know is at it's best when all three of the state's premiere programs are battling it out for the sunshine state's top talent. If NSD 2012 was a peak into the future of recruiting in the state of Florida, then the future looks brighter than ever.

Confirmed LOI

RB Delmarick "Mario" Pender (Early Enrollee)

6'0” 200lbs

Island Coast High School, Cape Coral, FL

ESPN-4*

Rivals-4*

24/7-4*

Pender is an early enrollee who might already be the most physically talented running back on the Seminoles roster. Pender is a back who possesses big play ability but carries the frame necessary to be a feature back or the front man in a running back rotation as he boast one of the best size speed combinations in the country at the running back position.

After sitting out his sophomore season, Pender exploded unto the national scene with a tremendous junior campaign and subsequent commitment to Florida State. Pender also was a high school track rival of Clemson's star freshman receiver Sammy Watkins, having clocked as low as a 10.62 time in the 100 meter dash. Pender compares favorably to former Miami Hurricanes and Killian High School standout Lamar Miller. With his early arrival, Pender is presented with a great opportunity to earn a supporting role in the running back rotation at Florida State as he gives the Noles a true game breaker at the position.

OL Daniel Glauser (Early Enrollee)

6'6” 315lbs

New Mexico Military institute, Roswell New Mexico

Rivals-3* 

Glauser is a player who is a native of Switzerland. He's has two years to play two seasons and has shown remarkable improvement from the 09' season to 11'. Glauser is an early enrollee who will benefit from being able to work in the spring with Florida State offensive line coach Rick Trickett in terms utilizing better technique. He projects either as a right tackle or guard at the FBS level as he is powerful drive blocker with a nasty disposition that reveals a genuine passion for the game. Does not possess the footwork to operate at the left tackle spot but is pretty good athlete out in space getting to the second level and initiating contact with linebackers.

Going into the 2012 season it is hopeful that Glauser will be able to at the very least provide quality depth and perhaps compete for a starting position along the offensive line. Even if he doesn't start, he will most assuredly see his share of playing time due to the physical nature of the position and the likelihood of injuries occurring within the starting unit. Glauser will thankfully have a spring and fall camp under his belt before he is asked to contribute. Glauser was also offered by Arkansas and Oklahoma State as well

Punter Cason Beatty (Early Enrollee)

6'3”225lbs

Olympic High School, Charlotte, North Carolina

Beatty is a sizeable punter weighing in at 225 pounds. He'll be taking over for departing All American Seminole punter Shawn Powell. Beatty is a good athlete as well passing for over 800 yards as a quarterback during his junior year in high school.

K Roberto Aguayo

6’0” 190lbs

South Lake High School, Groveland FL

ESPN- 3*

Rivals- 3*

24/7- 3*

Aguayo has received numerous accolades, and awards for his kicking ability. This young man not only has a very strong leg, but he is also extremely accurate from distance. Aguayo is ranked in the top five amongst kickers by many outlets.

This young man committed to the Florida State Seminoles exactly one year, and one day ago after a junior day visit to Tallahassee. He has accepted a greyshirt offer form FSU, and will enroll in January of 2013.

QB Sean Maguire

6'2” 200

Seton Hall Prep, West Orange, NJ

ESPN-3*

24/7-3*

Maguire is a player who possesses a strong arm with decent mobility as he was the first quarterback to commit to the Seminoles for the 2012 recruiting cycle. Now, it had always been Florida State's plan to sign two quarterbacks in order to generate increased competition along the depth chart, it was just a question as to which quarterback would commit first knowing that Florida State would continue to actively recruit the position.

Maguire completed his senior season passing for just under 1200 yards with 12 touchdowns and six interceptions for the Seton Hall Prep Pirates. Maguire is a player who brings a number of intangibles to the quarterback position. His field awareness, football IQ, and competitive nature only compliment his primary physical talent, which is 'plus' level arm strength. Between Maguire, Jameis Winston, and last year's lone quarterback signee; Jacob Coker, the Seminoles have continued to stock pile prospects with premium arm talent.

OL Menelik Watson

6'7”320lbs

Saddleback Community College, Mission Viejo, CA

Rivals-3*

247-4* 

Watson is an interesting prospect for a variety of. First, he is a native of England who played basketball for a year for Marist College. He proceeded to transfer to Saddleback community college and participated in his first year of organized football this past season. Watson was a teammate of current Oregon commit; Kyle Long, as they were the bookends along the Griffins offensive line this past season. Watson is obviously lacking in the experience department but physically the raw tools are definitely there. Watson is a player who has the footwork and short area quickness to mirror pass rushers effectively, and a wingspan that will enable him to prevent speed rushers from threatening the edge when used properly.

Despite his relative lack experience Watson could see some playing time next season. While ideally, he could redshirt to gain a better understanding of his craft, from a physical standpoint Watson is probably more ready to play than anyone else Florida State could have brought in at offensive line. He played right tackle primarily at Saddleback but projects to left tackle for the Noles. In my opinion, he will be one of the most physically gifted prospects Florida State offensive line coach Rick Trickett will have the task of developing. Watson was offered by schools such as Auburn, the University of Washington, California, San Diego State, and Rutgers

WR Marvin Bracy

5'9” 175lbs

Boone High School, Orlando, FL

ESPN- 4*

Rivals- 4*

24/7-4*

Bracy is known primarily as the fastest high school track star in America. He rise on the track was a meteoric one, as he didn't begin competing until his sophomore year in high school. He's trained by former Florida State sprinter Ricky Argo who has tutored several sprinters who later became Florida State football players as well. Bracy is well on his way to possibly becoming the fastest high school sprinter ever clocking a wind aided 10.05 100 meter dash last year as a junior.

On the gridiron Bracy has shown tremendous improvement as a wide receiver over the past two seasons, his only two as a varsity player. His immediate impact on the Noles will be first and foremost as a kickoff returner bringing his electric speed to Doak Campbell Stadium. Bracy will probably be brought along gradually as a receiver and by the time he is implemented into the regular rotation figures to be a dangerous element in the Noles passing game and offense as a whole.

DB P.J. Williams

6’1” 180lbs

Vanguard High School, Ocala FL

ESPN- 4*

Rivals- 4*

24/7- 4*

Williams, the Under Armour All-American, is one of the nation’s more versatile defensive backs. He is blessed with very long arms, very fluid hips, and great range. Williams can play either safety, or cornerback at the next level, and because of his attributes he should excel at either position.

Williams was Florida State’s very first verbal commitment of the 2012 class. He has remained a solid commit throughout the process. After a visit to Miami, he gave the Hurricanes serious consideration, before deciding to shut things down, and become a Seminole.

DE Mario Edwards Jr.

6’4” 297lbs

Ryan High School, Denton TX.

ESPN- 5*

Rivals- 5*

24/7- 5*

Edwards jr. is not only the top recruit in the Noles 2012 class, but he is considered by many the top high school athlete in the country. The nation’s top defensive end has dominated the competition in the lone star state in recent years, while making national headlines and becoming an elite recruit. Edwards has freakish agility and speed for a young man his size, and often has his way with opposing lineman.

Edwards, who is the son of former FSU defensive back Mario Edwards, will follow in his dad’s footsteps by becoming a Seminole. Edwards’ recruitment never lacked a dull moment, and he kept the FSU faithful on the edge of their seats by continuing to entertain a handful of other schools.

Last week, upon returning from an official visit to LSU, Edwards spoke with the Florida State staff and solidified his commitment, closing the door on his recruitment. This young man is sure to have a bright future in Tallahassee, and may one day follow his dad’s footsteps once again, to the NFL.

Colin Blake, CB

Brandeis High School, San Antonio, TX.

6’3, 185 lbs.

40 yard dash: 4.5

Rivals: 4 star

247: 3 star

ESPN: 3 star

Blake is the type of kid that the Florida State staff feels has strong potential. Despite being 6’3, hepossesses the hips necessary to remain at corner in the FSU defensive scheme, which would put him inthe same mold of a Keelin Smith from the 2011 class. It’s a unique combination to have and while hemay be a little rough around the edges initially, Colin Blake has legitimate talent to be cultivated that
Florida State is excited about.

Blake is not the type of player that you would expect an early impact from, but he will certainly have anopportunity to grow and compete later in his career, as his tools are outstanding. As with all players, hissuccess will depend greatly on how hard he is willing to work for his opportunity.

DE Chris Casher

6’5” 250lbs

Davidson High School, Mobile AL.

ESPN- 4*

Rivals- 4*

24/7- 4*

There is no doubt in my mind that Casher was the first guy off the bus for his Davidson high team. This physical specimen doesn’t only look the part, but he is one of the nation’s top defensive ends.  Casher’s mixture of size, strength, and speed is matched by few others in the country.

While Casher sat out his senior season do to transfer rules, he was very impressive in both the Under Armour All-American practices, and the game itself. This young man has a very high ceiling, and has yet to tap into his full potential. Casher has been a longtime Seminole pledge and has never once waivered in his commitment, even with hometown Alabama after him.

Reggie Northrup, LB

First Coast High School, Jacksonville, FL.

6’2, 215 lbs.

40 yard dash: 4.68

Rivals: 4 star

247: 4 star

ESPN: 4 star

Northrup is a talented LB who spent the majority of his recruitment committed to the Miami Hurricanesbefore flipping to the Noles, which obviously makes his case juicier than others. He finished his seniorseason with nearly 200 tackles, 39 tfl and 10 sacks.

Florida State has a history with recruiting kids from First Coast and it likely won’t end with Northrup.Plans for his freshman season are unclear at this point, as some think he may need a redshirt whileothers are not convinced the depth at linebacker will provide FSU with that luxury. Either way, this is ahigh quality pickup for the Noles made even sweeter by the fact that it’s a great athlete snatched fromthe jaws of the Miami Hurricanes. He has the tools to be a complete LB and his development in Garnetand Gold should be fun to witness.

Eddie Goldman, DT

Friendship Collegiate Academy, Washington D.C

6’4, 310 lbs.

40 yard dash: 4.8

Rivals: 5 star

247: 5 star

ESPN: 5 star

Eddie Goldman is a consensus 5 star prospect and top 10 player in the nation. He is widely consideredthe best DT prospect in the entire 2012 class. He brings outstanding size and strength along with verygood quickness and technique to the table and has the ability to be an early contributor at most schoolsin the country.

Goldman is very much a “rich get richer” type of pickup for the Noles, as they are absolutely loadedat the DT position. How well he’s able to fight for playing time and how soon he sees the field is anunknown, as it is typically tough for true freshmen DT’s to make an impact. That being said, Goldman iswhat would be considered an elite prospect, much like last year’s phenom, Tim Jernigan. This is a kid who will deal with high expectations throughout his career.

DT Justin Shanks

6’3” 310lbs

Prattville High School, Pratville AL.

ESPN- 4*

Rivals- 4*

24/7- 3*

Shanks, a defensive tackle out of national powerhouse; Prattville High School is a solid pick up for the Seminoles. The Army All American is blessed with tremendous strength and mobility for a young man north of 300lbs. He is a run stuffer, with a great motor.

Shanks chose Florida State over in state power Alabama and has never once waivered in his commitment. Tennessee made a late push for Shanks, but the big man has his sights set on Tallahassee and becoming a factor along the defensive line in the coming years.

TE Christo Kourtzidis

6'4” 238lbs

Lutheran High School, Orange, CA

ESPN-3*

Rivals-4*

24/7-4* 

Kourtzidis projects as more of a traditional in-line Tight End, much more so than the split out h-back types you presently see. He provides a very solid compliment to last year's Florida State signee and current starting Tight End Nick O'Leary. Kourtzidis is a quality blocker who in high school competed in one the state of California's most competitive sections (Pac-5 region). This past season, Kourtzidis' improved his pass catching ability to add a valued dimension to his overall skillset. At nearly 6-5 and around 240 pounds with room to grow, Kourtzidis cuts an already imposing figure that will only be enhanced once he gets into the Noles strength and conditioning program.

Kourtzidis' inclusion into the class wasn't as widely followed as some other commits. Now that's primarily due to the nature of the tight end position, but he gives Coach Jimbo Fisher additional flexibility as he can be utilized in the much talked about “Jumbo Spread” formation which includes three tight ends on the field at once, all with pass catching ability (Kourtzidis would be lined up at the line of scrimmage with the other two in the slot). With the departure of Senior Tight End Beau Reliford, Koutzidis will be relied upon early to provide a physical extra blocker to the Noles offense.

LB Ukeme Eligwe

6’3” 220lbs

Stone Mountain High School, Stone Mountain GA

ESPN- 4*

Rivals- 4*

24/7- 4*

The Army All-American out of Stone Mountain is a special athlete at the linebacker position. Eligwe has a great mixture of size and speed to go along with his superior instincts. He has very good closing speed on backs, and has good hips, and agility to use while in pass coverage.

Eligwe has always been a solid commit, and one that often publicized his passion for the Seminoles, at least until a recent visit to Cal. Upon returning, he got cold feet and wanted to delay his decision. He decided the night before NSD that he was ready to sign, and officially became a Seminole.

Ronald Darby, CB

Potomac High School, Oxon Hill, MD.

5’11, 175 lbs.

40 yard dash: 4.31

Rivals: 4 star

247: 5 star

ESPN: 4 star

Ronald Darby is arguably the best corner in the country and is rated such by both 247 Sports andScout.com. The addition of Darby to the 2012 class for FSU is absolutely huge as the Seminoles havecontinued to stockpile excellent secondary talent. He is one of the fastest players in the country,as he also has very promising track talent that he will continue to develop at Florida State. What’sencouraging about Darby to go along with his speed is the size. He has room to add muscle and isalready sturdily built with good height.

Darby will have a chance to compete early for playing time in nickel and dime situations, but that will bea tough uphill battle despite his great talent. Before he is done in Tallahassee, it is reasonable to expect him to become a multi-year starter.

DT Dalvon Stuckey

6’2” 300lbs

Walton High School, De Funiak Springs FL

ESPN- 4*

Rivals- 3*

24/7- 4*

Stuckey often gets overlooked by the more heralded prospects that FSU brought in along the defensive front, but this young man is no slouch. Stuckey is a very strong young man, that plays the run well and often finds himself in the backfield making plays.

Stuckey has been committed to FSU well over a year ago, and he never once waivered in his commitment. Unfortunately, the young man will likely not qualify and will be placed in JUCO. We wish Stuckey the best of luck, and hope to see him in the Garnet and Gold someday.

- FSU quarterback commit, Jameis Winston has not, and will not sign his letter of intent today, as he is playing in an all star game in Texas, and he would like to get back to Hueytown, Alabama to be with his family when he signs his LOI with Florida State. He once again re-affirmed his commitment to the Seminoles   today on ESPNU.  

- Former FSU commit Dante Fowler Jr. decided this morning to flip, and sign with the Florida Gators.

- There has been specualtion that longtime Florida State defensive tackle commit, Dalvon Stuckey is a risk to not qualify acidemically, and may enroll at Pear River Community College.