Florida State has not had a terribly good showing this year for the expectations that have been set for the program. They started off their season with a very disappointing loss to Virginia Tech (3-24) and then again last Saturday to Syracuse (7-30). But this weekend could finally be the turnaround the Seminoles have been waiting for with their win against Northern Illinois (37-19) at home.
It was an exciting game day in Tallahassee, Florida. The Seminoles took a quick lead up 14-0 in the first quarter. The first went to Jacques Patrick and the other went to Cam Akers. The Florida State defensive line performed well as well. They did not let anything past their line from the Huskies. Kicker Ricky Aguayo played an excellent role in the win, grabbing points from 50, 43 and 42 yards out. Quarterback Deondre Francois also played a relaxed and fluid game.
Generally, it was an all-around exciting game for FSU. Players stepped up from all experience levels and positions to contribute to the offensive success. Here’s what FSU head coach, Willie Taggart, had to say about his team’s motivation and improvement:
“It was very important for us because we haven’t done that all year… I think a lot of it had to do with our players and their commitment to getting better. It started this week. They decided they were going to get better, they were going to practice better, and hold each other accountable. It paid off for them. We need them to continue to do that. It’s something we’ve been preaching since day one that needs to happen. I think it showed our guys that, if they do that, good things will happen for us.”
This game gave Northern Illinois their 1-3 record, with losses against Utah and Iowa. Despite their record, they are still ranked No. 1 in the MAC West. They will go on to play the Eastern Michigan Eagles on Saturday at 6 p.m. ET. The Seminoles are heading to Louisville next to play the Cardinals.
Featured Image via Wikimedia Commons
