Florida State football, recruiting news 1/1

Happy New Year and happy game day Noles! Big time game this afternoon, let's start the festivities with some morning links to get you in game mode:

-Brendan Sonnone of the Orlando Sentinel writes that Florida State's ability to beat defense via the pass or run will present Oregon with a unique challenge.

-Andrea Adelson at ESPN wonders, does Florida State have anything left to prove? Good read here by Adelson.

-She also gives 10 reasons why Florida State will defeat Oregon and advance to the National Title game.

-Kermit Whitfield is hoping for more Rose Bowl magic like he had a season ago against Auburn in the 2013 BCS Championship game. I really think Whitfield can change the game for the Noles with a kick-off return, reverse, or jet sweep (I think we see him get a couple extra touches today).

-Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota are polar opposites dealing with the media Chantel Jennings writes. I think this is one reason why NFL teams will like Winston more, his ability to handle being the leader of a team in a variety of avenues.

-David Hale says the battle between freshmen studs Dalvin Cook and Royce Freeman will be key in the Rose Bowl. I'll be interested to see this match-up because I think the ground game is important for both sides.

-Really interesting statistical read as ESPN breaks down how Florida State's offense and defense have helped to bail each other out during different points in the season. The true measure of a team in my opinion is how each unit helps the other. Good link here.

-Andy Staples from Sports Illustrated writes that Oregon and FSU reshaped their offensive lines to pave the way for success this season.

-More from Staples as he says Rashad Greene is close to capping an incredible career as a Seminole. Excellent read.

-Here is his preview and pick for today's game. Interesting score prediction from Andy.

-Tom D'Angelo of the Palm Beach Post says Ohio State QB Braxton Miller has interest in transferring to FSU. Miller has his limitations as a passer, but make no mistake he would be the best option for the Noles at QB should Winston leave for the NFL.

-Lastly my pick for today's game: Oregon is the best team Florida State has faced this season in my opinion, however the same thing is true on the flip side. The Ducks will get their points, their offense is too good to be completely shut down. I do think Florida State on the defensive end will play up to the competition and perform well. In the end I think this FSU offense will be too much for Oregon to handle with its mix of speed and physicality and I see a special teams play from the Noles to aid in the win. Give me Florida State 44-34.