Florida State football, recruiting news: Is James Blackman a top 25 quarterback in CFB?

Football:

Not quite according to this list from AthlonSports; ranking him 36th overall but it sounds like they do think highly of James Blackman.

The addition of Kendal Briles as the team’s new play-caller and added competition along the offensive line should help to jumpstart Florida State’s offense in 2019. With Deondre Francois off the team, Blackman is the unquestioned starter in Tallahassee. The sophomore has plenty of experience under his belt. After an injury to Francois in 2017, Blackman started 11 games and threw for 2,230 yards and 19 touchdowns to 11 picks. The Florida native utilized a redshirt year in 2018 but took advantage of the new NCAA rule by playing in four games (with one start). Blackman passed for 421 yards and four scores in a 47-28 loss at NC State last season and completed three passes for 88 yards in a loss against Clemson. If the Seminoles get improved play in the trenches, Blackman could push for All-ACC honors in 2019.

Raising money for the Lift for Life event tends to mark the culmination of FSU’s off-season lifting program and this year’s event was spearheaded by sophomores Decalon Brooks (redshirt) & Keyshawn Helton.

Here’s a link to a photo gallery from the event. Dontae Lucas & Chaz Neal have really reshaped their physiques.

It appears that tide is turning in favor of compensation “officially” for collegiate athletes.

Recruiting:

2021 five-star defensive end Dylan Brooks; narrowed his list. FSU made the cut.

Another 2021 defensive end has been offered by FSU:

FSU offered three-star offensive tackle Brady Ward from Mobile, Alabama. Coach Clements being at FSU is a big deal for him.

Alumni:

The top 100 countdown continues; a familiar face enters the countdown at No. 49; Lawrence Dawsey.

Another consensus All-American guard is on the countdown; Jason Whitaker’s dominant trench play helped FSU make history.