Step back for a second and consider what this Saturday will bring. Obviously the big draw is the Florida State-Alabama football game in Atlanta. Countless articles have been written about the match-up, ranging from film breakdowns to opinion pieces. It’s one of the grandest openers ever for a college football season.
But perhaps that’s the most underrated part of the game: it officially signals the beginning of the 2017 Florida State football season. After seven months of speculation and anticipation, college football has finally returned to our lives. The tailgates, the fall mornings, the daily rituals, they all combine to bring fans one of the most unique sports in the entire world. It doesn’t matter how you arrived at your Florida State fandom, you’re going to be cheering with thousands of others when the ball finally kicks off at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Now, it’s the time for the first of many predictions from The Daily Nole staff. This week’s predictions include head editor Mike Ferguson, staff writer Clint Eiland, site manager Edwin Collins, and contributors Josh Mixon and Jay Brading.
Mike: Given the hype that this contest has had for so long, it’s really tough for the game to actually live up to it. With that being said, I think this is a good one. Neither head coach has ever lost an opener, but Alabama has been very tough on neutral fields in Week 1. FSU plays well, but the Alabama defense will be able to be the difference. Crimson Tide 27, Seminoles 22.
Clint: Jimbo Fisher and his team understand the monumental task that is in front of them. They have to square up with the strongest dynasty in modern college football in the very first game of the season. Fisher will have a solid plan of attack and will have his team fighting for all four quarters. In the end however, Alabama’s talented defensive line will wear down the Seminoles and squeak out a victory. The Noles lose, but they realize that if they keep up that level of play throughout the season, they’ll have a chance at a rematch down the road. 24-17, Alabama.
Josh: Florida State has the athletes to win this game, but it will take a near-perfect effort. Jimbo Fisher must establish the run game early, as a one-dimensional attack could be disastrous against this incredibly talented Alabama defense. If the Noles play a perfect game, they have a chance to win. Unfortunately, I just do not see it happening. The FSU defense keeps it close throughout, but Alabama’s superior athletes ultimately make the difference. A late Andy Pappanastos field goal puts the game out of reach and the Tide win, 27-17.
Jay: I think Alabama is beatable through the air. I don’t know that Deondre Francois will have the opportunity to make those plays, because that will depend on whether the offensive line can keep him upright. I think FSU will run the ball OK. I think the offenses will hit a couple home runs on both sides. Both teams will make enough plays to put some points on the board. I think it’s going to be a fun game. Give me FSU, 34-27.
Edwin: Florida State is thin at receiver and still has concerns on the offensive line. On top of that, every time I pick Florida State to win a big game, it loses. Bama 19, FSU 16.
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