Florida State Vs. NC State: The Noles’ New D

SB Nation’s Backing the Pack and Tomahawk Nation discuss the evolution of the Florida State defense in a post-Bowden era:

Scheme-wise, how is this year’s defense different from the ones we saw under Bobby Bowden?

Oh, wow. I’ll give you a long and a short here. For the long, go here. For the short, FSU has switched from its predictable man defense to a multiple zone scheme. The talent level is somewhat better than it was last year, and the coaching is immeasurably better. Through 4 conference games, FSU’s slashed its yards-per-play allowed by 35%. In comparison, NC State is allowing 11% fewer yards per play in conference. The #Noles also lead the nation in sacks. FSU’s players are still learning the defense but they they are picking it up a bit faster than expected.