Game Preview: Florida State @ Georgia Tech

Date: Saturday, August 24th
Time: 11 AM CST

Location: Bobby Dodd Stadium, Atlanta, GA

Florida State Seminoles

2023 Recap:

• Record: 13-0
• Lost to Georgia in the Orange Bowl, 63-3

Departures:

• DE Jared Verse (1st Round Pick – LA Rams)
• WR Keon Coleman (2nd Round Pick – BUF Bills)
• DT Brandon Fiske (2nd Round Pick – LA Rams)
• DB Renardo Green (2nd Round Pick – SF 49ers)
• RB Trey Benson (3rd Round Pick – AZ Cardinals)
• DB Jarrion Jones (3rd Round Pick – JAX Jaguars)
• QB Jordan Travis (5th Round Pick – NY Jets)
• WR Johnny Wilson (5th Round Pick – PHI Eagles)
• TE Jaheim Bell (7th Round Pick – NE Patriots)

Key Players:

• DJ Uiagalelei (QB): Transferring from Clemson and Oregon State, Uiagalelei is known for his powerful arm but has struggled with accuracy. His performance will be crucial in integrating the new offensive pieces.
• Roydell Williams (RB): The senior transfer from Alabama is a powerful back with a strong ability to gain yards between the tackles. His play will be central to the Seminoles’ ground game.
• Lawrance Toafili (RB): A dynamic player with explosive speed, Toafili could provide big plays if given the opportunity.
• Jaylin Lucas (RB): Known more for his speed and return abilities, Lucas will add depth and quickness to the backfield.
• Malik Benson (WR): WR1. A deep threat transfer from Alabama who could capitalize on Uiagalelei’s arm strength.
• Jalen Brown (WR): WR2. A speedy redshirt freshman with potential to make a significant impact.

Defense:
The Seminoles boast a strong defensive line and elite secondary, providing a formidable challenge for Georgia Tech’s offense. The defense’s ability to pressure the quarterback and cover receivers will be key in this matchup.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

2023 Recap:

• Record: 7-6
• Defeated UCF in the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl

Key Players:

• Haynes King (QB): A dual-threat quarterback with significant rushing ability and a solid passing game. His mobility will be an asset against a strong FSU defense. Here are some of King’s highlights from the 2023 season: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62M027E2gCk
• Jamal Haynes (RB): A versatile back with a strong performance last season, capable of breaking big runs and contributing in the passing game.
• Eric Singleton Jr (WR): A speedy sophomore who had a standout freshman season. His speed and playmaking ability will be critical for the Yellow Jackets’ offense.

Offense:
Georgia Tech’s offense revolves around Haynes King’s dual-threat capabilities and Jamal Haynes’ running prowess. Singleton’s speed provides a deep threat and a chance to stretch the field.

Game Preview: Florida State @ Georgia Tech

Matchup Insight:
Florida State’s defensive strength, particularly their elite secondary and stout defensive line, could present significant challenges for Georgia Tech’s offense. While Georgia Tech has some promising pieces, such as Haynes King and Jamal Haynes, their offensive line and overall efficiency might struggle against FSU’s defense.

Key to the Game:

• Florida State’s Run Game: The Seminoles are likely to leverage their strong running back committee, particularly Roydell Williams, against a Georgia Tech defense that struggled against the run last season.
• FSU’s Passing Game: With Uiagalelei’s arm strength and deep threats like Malik Benson and Jalen Brown, the Seminoles could exploit any mismatches in the Georgia Tech secondary.
• Georgia Tech’s Offensive Execution: King’s ability to effectively pass and run, combined with Haynes’ rushing, will be crucial in keeping the game competitive.

Score Prediction:
Florida State is favored in this matchup given their defensive prowess and the run game advantages. Expect a lower-scoring game due to FSU’s strong defense and a focus on the run game. Florida State wins by a score of 31-14.

Game Preview: Florida State @ Georgia Tech: Player Props to Target

Roydell Williams (FSU) Over 59.5 Rushing Yards
Williams is poised to take advantage of Georgia Tech’s run defense struggles. With the Seminoles likely to focus on the run game, he should surpass this rushing yardage prop.

Jalen Brown (FSU) Anytime Touchdown Scorer
Brown’s speed and the potential for deep shots could make him a candidate for a touchdown if the Seminoles look to exploit the deep ball against Georgia Tech’s secondary.

Overall, Florida State is the stronger team on paper and should be able to secure a victory, particularly if they execute effectively on the ground and capitalize on their defensive advantages.

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