FSU Depth Chart Observations: Jacksonville State

Monday morning, the Florida State Seminoles released their updated depth chart for the Jackonsville State game this coming Saturday, October 3rd.

FSU coach Mike Norvell spoke to the media from quarantine in his home following the Seminoles’ devastating 52-10 loss to ACC foe and rival Miami Hurricanes. Norvell was clearly disappointed with his team, mentioning that the team did not meet “the standard” they are setting for the program.

Norvell also noted changes were coming and said “We’re going to play the guys that put us in the best position to win football games. This is something that we need to do.”

As such, the new depth chart reflected those changes. The notable changes are below:

• James Blackman remains the starting quarterback, however the trio of Jordan Travis, Tate Rodemaker, and Chubba Purdy are all listed as the second choice with an OR. This marks the first appearance for the previously injured Purdy.
• Jashaun Corbin remains the starter at running back, but a new position “TB” - presumably tailback - was added, giving La’Damian Webb and Lawrence Toafili shared duties as the tailback starter.
• Tamorrion Terry was dropped from the top slot in the receiver position, now listed below Ontaria Wilson as a co-starter with an OR tag. Also of note in the receiver group is Warren Thompson being dropped from top billing with Keyshawn Helton listed above him - also with an OR tag. There are only two receiver positions listed.
• The defensive line remained the same. Despite fans’ lamentation of subpar defensive line play, there is no change.
• Emmett Rice retains top billing at the WILL linebacker spot, but is now a co-starter with Jaleel McRae OR DJ Lundy. Lundy did not get much burn against Miami.
• Leonard Warner III also lost his starting MIKE linebacker spot, with Stephen Dix Jr. becoming a co-starter.
• Amari Gainer was promoted to lone starter at the STUD hybrid LB/safety position. He previously was a co-starter with Kalen DeLoach.
• Jarrian Jones lost sole starting position at boundary cornerback, with Akeem Dent being elevated to co-starter.

Much will be made of Norvell not changing the quarterback starter, but given the other changes to veterans’ positions, it seems as though younger players will be given a chance to unseat Blackman.

Florida State fans will find out Saturday against Jacksonville State if these changes on paper materialize on the field, and if they have any impact on the football product.