ACC Spring Football Wrap: Florida State

Seminoles had injuries all over this spring, but Jimbo Fisher was impressed by starting QB E.J. Manuel...

Reviewing Key Spring Issues: 1) Manuel taking over – Behind a makeshift offensive line (due to injuries), E.J. Manuel was under pressure all game long – and it led to some bad decisions. He threw two interceptions by halftime (including a pick-six by Greg Reid). Overall, Manuel was 17 for 36 for 204 yards passing and did throw a touchdown.

2) Offensive line shifts and injuries – We’ll see what FSU is made of closer to the fall, but they have experience – now, they need health.

3) Taking the next step on D – The E.J. Manuel-led Gold team was held to 253 total yards – Garnet only racked up 168. Add two interceptions, including one taken back for a TD, and a couple forced fumbles – I’d say the defense impressed in the Seminoles’ final exhibition of the spring.

Spring MVP: K Dustin Hopkins (Junior, 41/55 in career on FGs)

Breakout Offensive Player: WR Greg Dent (Sophomore, 6-0 190, 12 career receiving yards)

Breakout Defensive Player: DE Bjoern Werner (Sophomore, 6-4 273, 19 career tackles, 3 sacks)

Key Injuries: T Andrew Datko, C David Spurlock, T Zebrie Sanders, T Rhonne Sanderson, WR Willie Haulstead, WR Josh Gehres, CB Xavier Rhodes, RB Chris Thompson, DT Jacobbi McDaniel, S Nick Moody, P Shawn Powell (everybody but Gehres expected to be back for the fall – his status unknown).

Spring Game Notes: 1) Dustin Hopkins wraps up Lou Groza Award in spring practice? – The junior kicker hit a 60-yard field goal to end the first half of the spring game along with his four other attempts as the kicker for both the Gold and Garnet teams.

2) Injuries hurt offense – Hard not to struggle with four offensive linemen sidelined with injuries. New QB Manuel tried his best to perform under the circumstances, but the Seminoles’ D swarmed him all game.

3) Greg Reid continues to shine – He’s one of the fastest players in the ACC and displayed his skills in the spring game. FSU QB E.J. Manuel attempted to sneak a pass by him on the sidelines - only for Reid to break on it and go untouched to the endzone for a pick-six.

Quotable: Jimbo Fisher on new starter E.J. Manuel – “I was extremely pleased with his spring. I thought he had an exceptional spring. He is accurate, runs well, has great command. He's a natural leader, very tough. Our guys respond to him well. I would be shocked if we didn't have a very successful season.”