The send-off wasn’t what most of Florida State’s seniors had hoped for, but nevertheless, the accomplishments as a program that this year’s senior class helped with are many. With the regular season in the books and only the Independence Bowl to be played, we’ll be looking back on the careers of some prominent FSU seniors.
The outgoing senior class for the Seminoles was part of the first College Football Semifinal ever and helped FSU finish in the top 10 twice and play in three New Year’s Six bowls. Some departing seniors contributed each season while others had small parts in the grand scheme of things.
Jacob Pugh was a 4-year contributor for FSU at linebacker. Pugh as a freshman in 2014 was more of a traditional linebacker before transitioning to FSU’s “BUCK” position as a linebacker/defensive end hybrid. Pugh’s primary responsibility over his latter years was rushing the passer.
That’s an area where he excelled as Pugh finished his career at Florida State with 7.5 sacks, although there is still the Independence Bowl against Southern Mississippi to be played. Pugh recorded more than 100 career tackles, including 10 for loss to go with two interceptions, one forced fumble and three recoveries.
As Pugh nears the end of his FSU career, take a look back at the five best moments from his time in Tallahassee:
5. First Career Sack
Sept. 12, 2015
Jacob Pugh’s first career sack came two games into his sophomore season of 2015. At home against South Florida, Pugh got to the Bulls’ Quinton Flowers late in the first half for a 2-yard loss. The sack would help thwart a scoring opportunity and lead to a USF punt.
4. Pugh Takes Down Speight
Dec. 30, 2016
Florida State sealed a top-10 finish in 2016 with a thrilling 33-32 win over Michigan in the Orange Bowl and Pugh played a part in it. With Michigan starting near midfield on a drive late in the third quarter, Pugh made sure it would go nowhere. On the first play of the possession, Pugh corralled quarterback Wilton Speight and took him down for an 11-yard loss on a drive that would last just three plays before a punt.
3. Monster Effort vs. Louisville
Oct. 17, 2015
The best pass-rushing performance of Pugh’s career came against a future Heisman Trophy winner in Louisville’s Lamar Jackson. The Seminoles got to the then freshman five times and twice, it was Pugh recording the sack. Pugh also led the team with seven total tackles in a 41-21 victory. Pugh would go on to be named ACC Linebacker of the Week for his effort.
2. Scoop and Score
Nov. 25, 2017
During Pugh’s time at Florida State, the Seminoles went 4-0 against rival Florida. In the most recent meeting, Pugh helped set the tone. On Florida’s opening drive, defensive end Brian Burns stripped Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks. Pugh was able to pick up the fumble and race 16 yards for the touchdown to give the Seminoles the early lead. FSU never trailed in a 38-22 victory in Gainesville.
1. Pugh Seals it vs. Notre Dame
Oct. 18, 2014
In a match-up of top 5 teams, it was Jacob Pugh who put the finishing touches on a 31-27 FSU victory over Notre Dame. Notre Dame looked to have won the game on a touchdown pass on fourth down from the FSU 3-yard-line, but officials called offensive pass interference and the ball was pushed back to the 18. On the final play for the Fighting Irish, quarterback Everett Golson heaved one desperately for the end zone, but it landed into the arms of Pugh for his second pick of the game.
Mike Ferguson is the editor of The Daily Nole. Follow Mike on Twitter @MikeWFerguson
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