ACC Official Highlights
Jordan Silversmith, a student at Florida State University, has been closely following the Seminoles’ football, baseball, and basketball teams. Throughout much of the season, Florida State’s offense has struggled in two-minute drills during their Wednesday practices. However, a significant change in momentum was observed today.
Freshman quarterback Luke Kromenhoek turned things around. After facing two incomplete passes initially, he stood tall against an oncoming rush and launched a deep throw to Elijah Moore along the sideline, marking a breakthrough for the offense. Shortly afterward, they connected again for a touchdown, the first of the day in this drill.
The promising duo of Kromenhoek and Moore, both true freshmen, showcased their potential as the team’s youth movement continues to thrive in Tallahassee. Their chemistry was evident as they linked up successfully on third downs and in the red zone, further solidifying their partnership.
Other players like BJ Gibson and Ja’Khi Douglas contributed effectively, making crucial plays in the intermediate range as the quarterbacks sought to stretch the field. However, incomplete passes often stemmed from the defensive front’s effectiveness. Defensive coordinator Adam Fuller unleashed a variety of complex pressures and looks that kept the offensive line guessing and generated significant pressure on the quarterbacks.
One standout defensive moment came from the secondary, where Ja’Bril Rawls made an impressive play by stripping Moore of the ball during a third-down reception, causing it to bounce into a teammate’s hands.
In preparation for the upcoming game against Miami, the team amplified their emotional intensity by turning on music during practice. Coach Mike Norvell emphasized the importance of maintaining control over their intensity and mindset, highlighting the emotional stakes of the upcoming matchup.
Three key themes emerged from today’s Situational Wednesday practice.
1. Luke Kromenhoek
A conversation sparked by a friend’s inquiry about DJ Uiagalelei’s extended opportunity in the lineup brought attention to Kromenhoek’s impressive performance. The freshman displayed remarkable command over the offense, effectively managing Fuller’s blitzes and adapting to the intense crowd noise. His ability to make swift decisions on third downs, coupled with his powerful arm and surprising mobility, positioned him as a strong contender for more playing time against the Hurricanes. He demonstrated leadership qualities and resilience, quickly recovering from any mistakes made by his teammates. Coach Norvell acknowledged Kromenhoek’s rapid development, noting, “It’s about the consistency of all that might be thrown at you. He is definitely growing up extremely fast.”
2. Elijah Moore
Moore’s two catches during the two-minute drill showcased his remarkable talent and maturity for a freshman. His technique was evident as he used late hands to secure a catch before deftly sidestepping a defender to score later on. His mental composure stood out during blocking drills, where he demonstrated restraint and poise, contrasting with his earlier tendencies to engage in conflict. Coach Norvell praised Moore’s growth and consistency, expressing optimism about his future contributions to the team. Despite a fumble on a third down that highlighted areas for improvement, the coaching staff remains hopeful that with time, Moore will refine his skills and playbook knowledge.
3. Defensive Front
The defensive front has consistently showcased strength and has built momentum leading into crucial games. During the two-minute drill with Glenn at quarterback, the Seminoles’ defensive line was highly effective, penetrating the backfield and applying pressure. They continued this trend during Kromenhoek’s initial plays before he found Moore for a deep completion. Their presence was felt particularly on third downs, where they recorded multiple sacks and pressures against both quarterbacks.
The most dominant moments occurred during one-on-one drills, where the offensive line appeared outmatched. Players like Marvin Jones Jr. and Patrick Payton effectively exploited their speed, while Josh Farmer and Darrell Jackson Jr. overwhelmed their opponents on the interior. Daniel Lyons delivered a standout performance, showcasing his power and agility by throwing an offensive lineman to the ground and entering the backfield.
As FSU prepared for Miami, it became clear that while the defensive line has excelled at rushing the passer, they would need to be prepared for a different challenge against a run-heavy offensive strategy. However, their recent performances suggest a solid foundation for the team’s defensive capabilities.
In summary, this week’s practice highlighted significant developments for Florida State as they gear up for their upcoming matchup against Miami. The insights shared by Coach Norvell and the athletes reflect a growing confidence in both the offensive and defensive units, setting the stage for an intense and highly anticipated game.
