September 4, 2023
by Don Juan Moore-(Outlook News)
photos by Alex Menendez (Orlando Sports Mag)
Orlando, FL – In a Week 1 showdown that resonated throughout the college football world, No. 8 Florida State established itself as a force to be reckoned with by dismantling the No. 5 LSU Tigers with a commanding 45-24 victory in Orlando. The Seminoles’ emphatic triumph not only marked the most significant win of the young 2023 season but also solidified their position as serious contenders in the quest for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
The spotlight shone brightly on Florida State’s dynamic quarterback, Jordan Travis, who entered the game amidst Heisman Trophy chatter. In a performance that justified the hype, Travis exhibited his mettle by completing 23 of 31 passes for a staggering 342 yards and four touchdowns, adding another 38 yards and a rushing score to his tally. Travis masterfully orchestrated the offense, engineering six consecutive scoring drives that enabled Florida State to seize control in the second half, ultimately securing a landmark victory that will resonate throughout the Mike Norvell era.
Although the game’s final score suggests a lopsided affair, it was far from one-sided for much of the evening. Surprisingly, LSU held a 17-14 lead at halftime, but their fortunes took a turn for the worse in the second half. LSU’s quarterback, Jayden Daniels, managed to create some explosive plays through the air, but he found himself relentlessly pursued by the relentless Seminoles’ pass rush during pivotal moments when the Tigers were striving to claw their way back from a growing deficit.
This resounding win for Florida State serves as a resounding affirmation of the hype generated by their 10-win campaign in the previous season. Norvell’s leadership had propelled the program to double-digit victories for the first time since 2016, yet critics remained skeptical due to the team’s winless record (0-3) against ranked opponents at that time. However, those lingering doubts were unequivocally dispelled with Sunday night’s dominant triumph over LSU.
Here are three key takeaways from the game that shed light on FSU’s triumph, LSU’s defeat, and the implications for both teams:
Travis Outshines Daniels: Both Travis and Daniels were touted as Heisman Trophy contenders before the season, and while their individual talents and their teams' potential for success still make them legitimate contenders, it was Travis who unquestionably stole the show in this clash. Travis orchestrated an impressive streak of 11 consecutive completed passes, igniting Florida State's offense. The Seminoles doubled their first-half output with 31 points in the second half, with four of Travis' five total touchdowns coming after halftime. In a game that demanded one team to tighten up to secure victory, Travis proved to be the steadying force that Florida State needed, while LSU and Daniels faltered during much of the second half.
Florida State's Wide Receiver Duo Shines: For the first time since 2018, Florida State's passing game featured two receivers with over 100 yards receiving. Keon Coleman amassed an impressive 122 yards on nine receptions, while Johnny Wilson contributed 104 yards on seven catches. Travis, who had lacked such potent receiving options in previous seasons, now enjoys the luxury of a formidable duo on the perimeter. Coleman's addition post-spring practice has proven to be a monumental acquisition, with his three touchdowns in this game attesting to his immediate impact. Defenses must now contend not only with Wilson's size and athleticism but also with Coleman's ability to turn short passes into substantial gains, as evidenced by his 52 yards after the catch. This dynamic changes not just how opponents defend Florida State before the snap but also how they prepare for an offense that capitalizes on open space and exploits it through its skill position players.In the aftermath of this impressive victory, Florida State’s aspirations for the College Football Playoff have grown exponentially, and the college football landscape will undoubtedly keep a watchful eye on the Seminoles’ progress as the season unfolds.