Three Exciting Home Matchups for FSU Football in 2023
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The Florida State Seminoles have an exciting schedule upcoming in 2023, with experts on both sides debating whether it is favorable or not, given the season opener and the timing of the early bye week. Regardless of which side of the fence you are on, here are three home matchups to watch out for as the 'Noles battle for ACC contention.
It is widely understood that the opener against LSU is equally - if not the most important game on the schedule in the eyes of the College Football Playoff (CFP) selection committee. Although it isn't an actual home game, it should be mentioned. The 'Noles and Tigers will battle it out on September 3rd inside what should be a top-10 showdown at Camping World Stadium.
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Miami Hurricanes
Heading into week ten, the Seminoles close out conference play against rival Miami Hurricanes, which is partially why they made this list. Last season, FSU put up a dominating performance against the Hurricanes, and head coach Mario Cristobal's team will likely be seeking redemption.
Miami has experienced coaching changes under Cristobal in the off-season, bringing in a new offensive and defensive coordinator. This transition type often challenges players to adapt to new playcalling and coaching styles. Despite these adjustments, it is anticipated that quarterback Tyler Van Dyke will continue as QB1. However, introducing a new system under offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson may present challenges for Van Dyke in his first year.
On the defensive side, the Hurricanes boast a secondary anchored by AP All-American safety Kam Kinchens and James Williams. Despite introducing yet another new system, the learning curve may not be as steep for the defense. The experience and talent of Kinchens and Williams could help facilitate a smoother transition for the defensive backfield. They also will return two defensive linemen who graded out second and third on the team per PFF behind Kinchens: Akheem Mesidor and Leonard Taylor III.
It will be interesting to see what type of team Cristobal fields in Tallahassee, and the rivalry between the two schools is never dull.
Duke Blue Devils
Week seven brings the Blue Devils to town following Duke's home game against NC State the week before. Duke is coming off a 9-4 (5-3 ACC) season under head coach Mike Elko. Returning quarterback Riley Leonard, who threw for 2967 yards and 20 touchdowns last season, should have his team rolling, having had such a turnaround last year. He will also be protected by a potential first-rounder in Graham Barton, according to Pro Football Focus' 2024 NFL Mock Draft.
FSU brings a historical advantage as they have never lost to Duke in football. The last time the two teams met in 2020, the game ended in a 56-35 victory for the Seminoles. The score could be closer come October 21.
Southern Miss Golden Eagles
This matchup will be captivating, primarily because of Southern Miss' Frank Gore Jr. In 2022, Gore Jr. surpassed the 1,000-yard mark, accumulating 1,382 yards on 238 carries and scoring nine touchdowns. Gore also broke the NCAA FBS Bowl rushing yard record when he put up 329 yards and three scores against Rice in the LendingTree Bowl. FSU is returning a talented veteran-filled defensive line that should slow him down.
Additionally, USM returns its second-leading receiver, Jakarius Caston. Considering the question marks surrounding FSU's safety depth, Caston's presence could lead to significant plays.
While the Seminoles are expected to be favored in all three, fans can still expect high-quality football. The 2023 home schedule offers an enticing mix of rivalries, redemption, and underdogs that will keep fans on the edge of their seats throughout the season.
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