This is the second in a series of posts counting down the most important players for Florida State in 2012. There are 56 days until FSU football, and that's how many are left on the list. That means no off days. Oh, and these are not in any specific order.

Background: Terrence Brooks is a first-year starter at the safety position for the Florida St. Seminoles. A junior out of Dunellon (Fla.) High, he stands 5'11 and checks in just north of 200 pounds. Brooks was very versatile in high school, playing four separate positions for the Tigers. He came to Florida State as a corner, but his work in the weight room and willingness to tackle moved him to the safety position.

Brooks played some for the Seminoles last season, backing up Terrence Parks at the safety position. In the Champs Sports Bowl, Brooks was inserted into the lineup and made a crucial interception against Notre Dame, as well as a pass breakup.

2012: Assuming he fully understands the role of his position, Brooks should be a significant upgrade over Parks. He is much more athletic, and the range Brooks offers as a former cornerback is tremendous.

He is, like all members of Florida State's five-man nickel package, a former cornerback. Combined with Lamarcus Joyner, there is not a safety tandem with better range in the country. Assuming the pair is assignment sound, no defense should be better at limiting long passes.

Brooks will be challenged for playing time by sophomore Karlos Williams, but Brooks is expected to be the starter at this point. Williams was a higher rated recruit, and most expected him to start, but Brooks may have better instincts and has held Williams off at every turn.

Brooks is a hard worker and is well liked by the coaching staff. He'll be an important member of what could be the best defense in all of college football.