So lets get right to it – the first “8 to Contemplate.” These observations came as a result of watching Florida State’s thrilling victory over Auburn in the BCS National Championship Game. I would encourage you to read these 8 observations, and then, you know, contemplate them. Really think about what expanded rosters might do for the NFL game, or how Kelvin Benjamin will translate at the next level.
Don’t forget to interact if, in the course of your contemplation, you have an interesting insight. If the writer is the only one with the insights, what fun is that?
- Jimbo Fisher and his coaching staff made all of the correct adjustments at halftime – they not only recruit well, but they can do work on the sidelines. The second half saw Florida State dominate on offense, defense, and special teams. They had their players ready to play and prevented Auburn from doing the things that had worked so well in the first half, specifically neutralizing the defensive pressure enough by increasing the tempo and reducing the level of pre-snap shifts.
- Tre Mason was underrated the entire season and had his team been ranked in the pre-season he would have had a stronger showing in the Heisman race – and may have won it. Mason carried the ball 34 times for 195 yards against a defense that had not allowed a 100-yard rusher since October and he chewed up yards both between and bouncing outside the tackles.
- This game – coupled with the SEC Championship Game – showed the importance of special teams, and thus coaching in the college football game. A coaching staff must prepare their entire team to handle all scenarios (and having an automatic as Roberto Aguayo doesn’t hurt).
- Kelvin Benjamin will be a very good receiver at the next level. He uses his frame well to make sure he gets to balls before defensive backs have a chance to knock them away, but he will need to show that he can handle more physical corners at the line at the next level.
- The offense that Nick Marshall runs allowed him to avoid the “Freshman playing in the National Championship Game” jitters more so than Jameis Winston early, but they both showed them and Winston had a chance to settle down while Marshall’s rust reared its head late.
- The SEC finally lost – and that is a good thing. Heading into the new playoff system (good riddance bowl system), any biases aside, a more balanced landscape and thus playoff breakdown will be good for college football as a whole. Florida State’s victory (as well as Oklahoma’s dominance of Alabama in the Sugar Bowl) allow for voters to recognize the strength at the top of the other power conferences.
- Timmy Jernigan taking a breather in the 4th quarter shows the importance of depth in college football and may also signal the need for large rosters in the NFL. As player safety remains an issue and wanting to ensure that the highest level of football is consistently played, the League should consider larger rosters.
- The month long layoff between the end of conference championships and the National Championship Game is awful and really sacrifices some of the integrity of the game.
thebullpenblogger 