FSU Seminoles: Sean Maguire
Updating projections for the Class of 2012 
May, 2, 2013
May 2
8:30
AM ET
By
David M. Hale | ESPN.com
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- The 2012 signing class brought 16 new faces to Florida State, but after a full year on campus, fans have seen only a glimpse of what the group, ranked as the No. 2 class in the nation, can do.
Nine members of the 2012 class saw action last season, and only defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. earned a start. But even Edwards' progress comes with an asterisk. He was slated to redshirt when the season began, and he only worked his way onto the field -- and later, into the starting lineup -- thanks to a series of injuries.
After a year largely spent on the sidelines, the Class of 2012 is poised to make an impact this season. Here's how we see things shaping up.
The wild card
Marvin Bracy, WR
Bracy skipped spring practice to focus on track, and now it seems entirely possible that decision could be permanent. Bracy has world-class speed, and if he chooses to go pro as a sprinter, he'd wave goodbye to his FSU football career. A decision could come any day.
Waiting their turn
Justin Shanks, DT
Despite FSU losing its two starting tackles, the position is still chock full of talent, which has managed to overshadow Shanks -- something that's awfully hard to do to a player pushing 320 pounds.
Colin Blake, CB
Blake battled injuries early in 2012 and ended up redshirting. He might have had a chance to earn a regular role this season, but Lamarcus Joyner's move to corner likely makes the field a bit too crowded. Blake will see work on special teams, but he'll need a few starters to go down with injuries before regular playing time is available in a crowded secondary.
Sean Maguire, QB
To Maguire's credit, he conceded nothing during FSU's quarterback competition this spring. Still, the writing was on the wall. Maguire has a good arm and solid long-term potential, but the job isn't likely to be his for at least a few more years.
Nine members of the 2012 class saw action last season, and only defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. earned a start. But even Edwards' progress comes with an asterisk. He was slated to redshirt when the season began, and he only worked his way onto the field -- and later, into the starting lineup -- thanks to a series of injuries.
After a year largely spent on the sidelines, the Class of 2012 is poised to make an impact this season. Here's how we see things shaping up.
The wild card
Marvin Bracy, WR
Bracy skipped spring practice to focus on track, and now it seems entirely possible that decision could be permanent. Bracy has world-class speed, and if he chooses to go pro as a sprinter, he'd wave goodbye to his FSU football career. A decision could come any day.
Waiting their turn
Justin Shanks, DT
Despite FSU losing its two starting tackles, the position is still chock full of talent, which has managed to overshadow Shanks -- something that's awfully hard to do to a player pushing 320 pounds.
Colin Blake, CB
Blake battled injuries early in 2012 and ended up redshirting. He might have had a chance to earn a regular role this season, but Lamarcus Joyner's move to corner likely makes the field a bit too crowded. Blake will see work on special teams, but he'll need a few starters to go down with injuries before regular playing time is available in a crowded secondary.
Sean Maguire, QB
To Maguire's credit, he conceded nothing during FSU's quarterback competition this spring. Still, the writing was on the wall. Maguire has a good arm and solid long-term potential, but the job isn't likely to be his for at least a few more years.
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Starting job not guaranteed to Winston
April, 25, 2013
Apr 25
12:00
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston stole the show in the Seminoles’ spring game, but the departure of former quarterback Clint Trickett will not mean an automatic promotion for Winston, coach Jimbo Fisher said on Wednesday.
(Some don't believe this.)
Despite Winston's jaw-dropping athleticism, FSU will head into fall camp with an open competition remaining, and Winston and Jacob Coker will continue to split reps, Fisher said.
“We’re still going to break it up,” Fisher said. “Jameis had an outstanding spring … but Jacob Coker will still be in that battle and so will Sean [Maguire], but Jacob and Jameis will really be battling hard for that job, and Sean has really developed; I’m very pleased with him.
“We’ll split those reps and we’ll keep it because I think we still have some outstanding quarterbacks on this team. We’ll [see] how the consistency relays through, but I was very pleased with those guys in spring practice.”
Fisher said that Coker played three quarters of the spring with a broken foot, so he is eager to see how Coker competes when at full strength.
“He’s a big, strong guy who can think, really knows the offense, tough guy, big-time arm strength, can get the ball vertically and throw the underneath game,” Fisher said. “And Winston has all the tools, also. I’m very excited for those guys and their futures here.”
(Some don't believe this.)
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“We’re still going to break it up,” Fisher said. “Jameis had an outstanding spring … but Jacob Coker will still be in that battle and so will Sean [Maguire], but Jacob and Jameis will really be battling hard for that job, and Sean has really developed; I’m very pleased with him.
“We’ll split those reps and we’ll keep it because I think we still have some outstanding quarterbacks on this team. We’ll [see] how the consistency relays through, but I was very pleased with those guys in spring practice.”
Fisher said that Coker played three quarters of the spring with a broken foot, so he is eager to see how Coker competes when at full strength.
“He’s a big, strong guy who can think, really knows the offense, tough guy, big-time arm strength, can get the ball vertically and throw the underneath game,” Fisher said. “And Winston has all the tools, also. I’m very excited for those guys and their futures here.”
Without Trickett, Fisher still mum on starter
April, 18, 2013
Apr 18
9:03
PM ET
By
David M. Hale | ESPN.com
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Clint Trickett's decision to transfer from Florida State might have narrowed the playing field in the Seminoles' quarterback competition, but Jimbo Fisher still isn't making anything official when it comes to naming a starter.
The clear implication from Trickett's departure is that redshirt freshman Jameis Winston is in command for the job, but Fisher said Thursday he plans to keep it an open competition into fall camp.
"They have to go into fall camp and still perform," Fisher said. "Spring is one thing, and you got an indication of what we're capable of and where we're going, but we have to continue to grow and continue those performances with consistency going into fall camp and throughout summer and all through the season. There's always competition."
Fisher might be insistent on a quiet public approach to the job, but all signs point to Winston being in the driver's seat to take over for EJ Manuel as the Seminoles' starter in 2013.
Trickett entered spring atop the depth chart, but Winston's reps with the first-team offense grew over the course of spring practice, and his spring game performance -- 12-of-15 passing for 205 yards and two touchdowns -- was clearly enough to push Trickett out the door.
While Fisher didn't discuss an updated depth chart publicly, he said following the spring game that the quarterbacks would have a clear understanding of where they stood.
"You're honest about what's going on, our response," Fisher said. "If you're honest every day with them, that's the key. The key is to be open and honest with them -- and they know. They know what you're looking for. In the end, they'll know."
After evaluating the film, Fisher's impressions of Winston certainly underscore why Trickett decided to leave. While Winston wasn't perfect, Fisher raved about how quickly he picked up the offense.
"He was very good, made good decisions with the ball, as accurate, as very calm under pressure," Fisher said. "Handled the poise, understood the situations. He had a couple mistakes in there, even on some of the good plays, the process in which he went about it would've been better. But he was very productive, seized the moment, and I thought he took advantage of things, which you want guys to do. That's what you want to see. I was very pleased with his performance, and he's a very fun guy to coach."
Trickett met with Fisher this week and informed the coach of his decision to transfer. Both parties declined to offer details of the meeting, but Fisher said his long relationship with Trickett and his family -- father Rick Trickett is FSU's offensive line coach -- made it a difficult conversation but an easy decision to grant the transfer request.
"We had a long discussion, and he had some things that he wanted to do, and I’m backing him 100 percent," Fisher said. "I hate losing him, we loved to have him, he was a heck of a player for us, he would have been a heck of a player for us, but that’s the way things are sometimes, and we wish him nothing but the best."
Trickett plans to visit several schools before making a decision on where he'll transfer.
With the veteran Trickett gone, sophomore Jacob Coker and redshirt freshman Sean Maguire remain in competition with Winston heading into fall camp. Coker is the only quarterback on the roster to have experience in a college game.
Fisher praised both Coker's and Maguire's potential, but as he provided analysis of the spring performance for each of the three quarterbacks, it seemed clear Winston had made the most progress in turning potential into performance.
"Jameis has a really good grasp on things, has developed in the system really well, is very intelligent, and athletically he can make the throws," Fisher said.
[+] Enlarge
Melina Vastola/USA TODAY SportsAll signs point toward Jameis Winston starting on Saturdays this fall.
Melina Vastola/USA TODAY SportsAll signs point toward Jameis Winston starting on Saturdays this fall."They have to go into fall camp and still perform," Fisher said. "Spring is one thing, and you got an indication of what we're capable of and where we're going, but we have to continue to grow and continue those performances with consistency going into fall camp and throughout summer and all through the season. There's always competition."
Fisher might be insistent on a quiet public approach to the job, but all signs point to Winston being in the driver's seat to take over for EJ Manuel as the Seminoles' starter in 2013.
Trickett entered spring atop the depth chart, but Winston's reps with the first-team offense grew over the course of spring practice, and his spring game performance -- 12-of-15 passing for 205 yards and two touchdowns -- was clearly enough to push Trickett out the door.
While Fisher didn't discuss an updated depth chart publicly, he said following the spring game that the quarterbacks would have a clear understanding of where they stood.
"You're honest about what's going on, our response," Fisher said. "If you're honest every day with them, that's the key. The key is to be open and honest with them -- and they know. They know what you're looking for. In the end, they'll know."
After evaluating the film, Fisher's impressions of Winston certainly underscore why Trickett decided to leave. While Winston wasn't perfect, Fisher raved about how quickly he picked up the offense.
"He was very good, made good decisions with the ball, as accurate, as very calm under pressure," Fisher said. "Handled the poise, understood the situations. He had a couple mistakes in there, even on some of the good plays, the process in which he went about it would've been better. But he was very productive, seized the moment, and I thought he took advantage of things, which you want guys to do. That's what you want to see. I was very pleased with his performance, and he's a very fun guy to coach."
Trickett met with Fisher this week and informed the coach of his decision to transfer. Both parties declined to offer details of the meeting, but Fisher said his long relationship with Trickett and his family -- father Rick Trickett is FSU's offensive line coach -- made it a difficult conversation but an easy decision to grant the transfer request.
"We had a long discussion, and he had some things that he wanted to do, and I’m backing him 100 percent," Fisher said. "I hate losing him, we loved to have him, he was a heck of a player for us, he would have been a heck of a player for us, but that’s the way things are sometimes, and we wish him nothing but the best."
Trickett plans to visit several schools before making a decision on where he'll transfer.
With the veteran Trickett gone, sophomore Jacob Coker and redshirt freshman Sean Maguire remain in competition with Winston heading into fall camp. Coker is the only quarterback on the roster to have experience in a college game.
Fisher praised both Coker's and Maguire's potential, but as he provided analysis of the spring performance for each of the three quarterbacks, it seemed clear Winston had made the most progress in turning potential into performance.
"Jameis has a really good grasp on things, has developed in the system really well, is very intelligent, and athletically he can make the throws," Fisher said.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Spring practice arrived with some significant questions, and it ended with at least a slightly clearer indication of some answers. This week, we'll take a look at five of the biggest question marks of the spring and decipher what we learned and how much further the Seminoles have to go before the season kicks off.
First up: The quarterbacks
The question: Which of Florida State's four talented backups could take over for EJ Manuel and win the starting job?
Stacy Revere/Getty ImagesRedshirt freshman Jameis Winston appeared to climb the quarterback depth chart this spring with a star quality that none of the other contenders possessed.The possibilities: Clint Trickett entered the spring as the de facto No. 1 thanks to two career starts and three years on the sideline as Manuel's backup. Sophomore Jacob Coker was next in line, followed by redshirt freshmen Jameis Winston and Sean Maguire. Each had their supporters, but Winston's recruiting pedigree made him the most intriguing of the bunch.
What we learned this spring: Winston can back up the hype. The freshman split his attention between football and baseball throughout the spring but still wound up as the most impressive of the four candidates vying for the job, which speaks to his athletic ability and mental resolve.
"I don't have a social life," Winston joked.
Winston might not have time to get out much these days, but he's certainly got his share of admirers. He worked his way from third string to effectively splitting reps with the No. 1 offense by the end of spring practice, and he delivered in the spring game, completing 12 of 15 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns.
What's left to decide: Jimbo Fisher still isn't naming a starter, and Trickett and, to a lesser degree, Coker and Maguire remain in the mix. But Winston has clearly established himself as a potential star. Whether he starts the opener remains to be seen, but the notion that he'll eventually be Florida State's starting quarterback feels like something of an inevitability at this point.
First up: The quarterbacks
The question: Which of Florida State's four talented backups could take over for EJ Manuel and win the starting job?
Stacy Revere/Getty ImagesRedshirt freshman Jameis Winston appeared to climb the quarterback depth chart this spring with a star quality that none of the other contenders possessed.What we learned this spring: Winston can back up the hype. The freshman split his attention between football and baseball throughout the spring but still wound up as the most impressive of the four candidates vying for the job, which speaks to his athletic ability and mental resolve.
"I don't have a social life," Winston joked.
Winston might not have time to get out much these days, but he's certainly got his share of admirers. He worked his way from third string to effectively splitting reps with the No. 1 offense by the end of spring practice, and he delivered in the spring game, completing 12 of 15 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns.
What's left to decide: Jimbo Fisher still isn't naming a starter, and Trickett and, to a lesser degree, Coker and Maguire remain in the mix. But Winston has clearly established himself as a potential star. Whether he starts the opener remains to be seen, but the notion that he'll eventually be Florida State's starting quarterback feels like something of an inevitability at this point.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- While Jimbo Fisher won't be etching anything into stone after Saturday's spring game, there were clearly a few players who took big leaps forward during the past month and a few more who saw significant opportunities slip away.
WINNERS
Jameis Winston, QB
The performance: Winston entered the spring third on the depth chart, but tops in potential. He didn't disappoint. By spring's end, he was splitting first-team reps with Clint Trickett and dominated FSU's spring game, solidifying his place as the fan's choice for the starting job even if Fisher hasn't made anything official.
What comes next: Heisman? National championship? The Hall of Fame? With Winston, there doesn't appear to be such a thing as setting the bar too high. Fisher might be trying to temper expectations, but that's likely a lost cause. Winston still has plenty of work to do before he reaches the vast heights predicted for him, but he's only burnished his resume during the past month. What comes next for him though? "It's baseball season," he said after Saturday's spring game.
WINNERS
Jameis Winston, QB
The performance: Winston entered the spring third on the depth chart, but tops in potential. He didn't disappoint. By spring's end, he was splitting first-team reps with Clint Trickett and dominated FSU's spring game, solidifying his place as the fan's choice for the starting job even if Fisher hasn't made anything official.
What comes next: Heisman? National championship? The Hall of Fame? With Winston, there doesn't appear to be such a thing as setting the bar too high. Fisher might be trying to temper expectations, but that's likely a lost cause. Winston still has plenty of work to do before he reaches the vast heights predicted for him, but he's only burnished his resume during the past month. What comes next for him though? "It's baseball season," he said after Saturday's spring game.
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FSU Notes: QBs respond to 'awful' practice
April, 10, 2013
Apr 10
8:09
PM ET
By
David M. Hale | ESPN.com
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Jameis Winston lingered on the practice field, offering some small solace and encouragement to each player who trudged away after Jimbo Fisher called an abrupt end to what he described as an "awful" day of work for Florida State. After Fisher finished a post-practice debriefing with media, Clint Trickett was waiting outside the coach's office to offer his own counsel.
A day like Wednesday could be a line of demarcation for FSU's quarterbacks, giving Fisher a chance to see how they handle the adversity of an atrocious practice session. The only problem, Fisher said, was he wished he'd seen more of it sooner.
"It's easy to do it afterwards," Fisher said. "The key is recognizing when it's happening and then call it together, and I wish they'd done a better job of that."
Still, the day's struggles couldn't be pinned entirely on the quarterbacks, Fisher said. It was a group effort, and the four men battling for the starting QB job actually were among the least conspicuous offenders.
As spring practice draws to a close -- just one practice session remains before the spring game -- Fisher has seen progress from his quarterbacks, and while he's not giving away any secrets on where the depth chart currently stands, it certainly sounds like it's becoming more of a two-man race.
In Monday's scrimmage, it was Winston and Trickett who got the bulk of the first-team reps, and both turned in strong performances.
Winston completed 8 of 15 for 129 yards with an interception, adding 16 yards and a touchdown on the ground.
"He puts the ball on the money -- even his deep balls, every touch he has on the short routes," safety Terrence Brooks said. "He throws it as soon as they come out of their breaks, which makes it harder for us. He does a great job of looking us off and having us on edge all the time."
Trickett completed 17 of 28 passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns.
"Clint gets out of the pocket very well, but he still looks downfield to make the plays," Brooks said. "It looks like a toss-up to me. ... I'm glad I don't have to make that decision. That's on Jimbo."
Jacob Coker and Sean Maguire remain in the competition but largely worked with the second-team offense during Monday's scrimmage. Coker completed 10 of 17 passes for 162 yards and an interception, while Maguire was a solid 8 of 15 for 102 yards and a touchdown.
Saturday's spring game could be the next step in making that decision for Fisher, but Thursday's return to the practice field after such an ugly performance might factor in, too.
"We were not mentally ready to practice and that will get you beat," Fisher said. "If we haven't learned that lesson around here by now, we're going to get that point across, I promise."
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Don Juan MooreJameis Winston (pictured) and Clint Trickett seem to have leapt ahead in the starting quarterback competition.
AP Photo/Don Juan MooreJameis Winston (pictured) and Clint Trickett seem to have leapt ahead in the starting quarterback competition."It's easy to do it afterwards," Fisher said. "The key is recognizing when it's happening and then call it together, and I wish they'd done a better job of that."
Still, the day's struggles couldn't be pinned entirely on the quarterbacks, Fisher said. It was a group effort, and the four men battling for the starting QB job actually were among the least conspicuous offenders.
As spring practice draws to a close -- just one practice session remains before the spring game -- Fisher has seen progress from his quarterbacks, and while he's not giving away any secrets on where the depth chart currently stands, it certainly sounds like it's becoming more of a two-man race.
In Monday's scrimmage, it was Winston and Trickett who got the bulk of the first-team reps, and both turned in strong performances.
Winston completed 8 of 15 for 129 yards with an interception, adding 16 yards and a touchdown on the ground.
"He puts the ball on the money -- even his deep balls, every touch he has on the short routes," safety Terrence Brooks said. "He throws it as soon as they come out of their breaks, which makes it harder for us. He does a great job of looking us off and having us on edge all the time."
Trickett completed 17 of 28 passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns.
"Clint gets out of the pocket very well, but he still looks downfield to make the plays," Brooks said. "It looks like a toss-up to me. ... I'm glad I don't have to make that decision. That's on Jimbo."
Jacob Coker and Sean Maguire remain in the competition but largely worked with the second-team offense during Monday's scrimmage. Coker completed 10 of 17 passes for 162 yards and an interception, while Maguire was a solid 8 of 15 for 102 yards and a touchdown.
Saturday's spring game could be the next step in making that decision for Fisher, but Thursday's return to the practice field after such an ugly performance might factor in, too.
"We were not mentally ready to practice and that will get you beat," Fisher said. "If we haven't learned that lesson around here by now, we're going to get that point across, I promise."
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- If Jimbo Fisher is getting any closer to tabbing a starting quarterback, he's keeping his plans in house, but that didn't prevent him from giving a strong nod of approval for de facto No. 1 Clint Trickett after Monday's scrimmage.
"I thought Clint had a really good day," Fisher said following FSU's second scrimmage session of the spring. "Clint was very consistent in the things he did, and they made some plays around him."
Consistency has been the buzzword of the spring for Trickett, who leads the pack by a wide margin in experience in Fisher's offense. But if Trickett has done nothing to lose his hold on the top spot, he's at least starting to share the spotlight a bit with Jameis Winston.
Fisher said Trickett and Winston took the majority of the first-team reps Monday, and both had highlights. Winston had one pick in the red zone, but he also was able to lead the first-team offense down the field on several occasions with some impressive third-down conversions.
"He came right back [from the interception] and on third down just lit it up," Fisher said. "Made three or four just big-time throws."
It was a bit more of a mixed bag for Jacob Coker, who fumbled a snap and threw an interception, but Fisher said he, too, responded well to the early struggles to finish with a solid performance.
Stats for the scrimmage were not immediately made available.
As much as Trickett's consistent performance can turn heads, Fisher said, an up-and-down performance can be just as impressive if it ends on a high note.
"They made some mistakes, and that's when I want to see how those young guys do," Fisher said. "Them guys come right back out there."
If it sounds like Fisher is offering liberal praise for the breadth of his quarterback options, he insists it's all deserved. It's just that none of the praise has been so intense that a clear No. 1 has been established.
That will happen eventually, Fisher said, but he's still not putting any timetables on a decision.
"We'll know when it's time," he said. "Hopefully it'll stand out consistently who starts taking that job, and it'll be obvious. Right now, we're each growing and I love the competition."
[+] Enlarge
Mitch Stringer/USA TODAY SportsClint Trickett took another step Monday in his quest to claim the starting quarterback job.
Mitch Stringer/USA TODAY SportsClint Trickett took another step Monday in his quest to claim the starting quarterback job.Consistency has been the buzzword of the spring for Trickett, who leads the pack by a wide margin in experience in Fisher's offense. But if Trickett has done nothing to lose his hold on the top spot, he's at least starting to share the spotlight a bit with Jameis Winston.
Fisher said Trickett and Winston took the majority of the first-team reps Monday, and both had highlights. Winston had one pick in the red zone, but he also was able to lead the first-team offense down the field on several occasions with some impressive third-down conversions.
"He came right back [from the interception] and on third down just lit it up," Fisher said. "Made three or four just big-time throws."
It was a bit more of a mixed bag for Jacob Coker, who fumbled a snap and threw an interception, but Fisher said he, too, responded well to the early struggles to finish with a solid performance.
Stats for the scrimmage were not immediately made available.
As much as Trickett's consistent performance can turn heads, Fisher said, an up-and-down performance can be just as impressive if it ends on a high note.
"They made some mistakes, and that's when I want to see how those young guys do," Fisher said. "Them guys come right back out there."
If it sounds like Fisher is offering liberal praise for the breadth of his quarterback options, he insists it's all deserved. It's just that none of the praise has been so intense that a clear No. 1 has been established.
That will happen eventually, Fisher said, but he's still not putting any timetables on a decision.
"We'll know when it's time," he said. "Hopefully it'll stand out consistently who starts taking that job, and it'll be obvious. Right now, we're each growing and I love the competition."
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Mario Edwards Jr. might be the heir apparent to a trio of NFL-caliber defensive ends this season, but he's still got a ways to go to match the consistency of Bjoern Werner, Cornellius Carradine and Brandon Jenkins.
Jimbo Fisher said he's seen improvement in his sophomore pass rusher, but Edwards has struggled to put a series of good plays -- and more importantly, good practices -- together.
"He's still got to come on," Fisher said. "He's got to play much more consistent and get a little more of an urgency to him."
Edwards, who had five tackles, including 1.5 for a loss, in Monday's scrimmage, said he's trimmed 25 pounds off his frame since he arrived last summer, but new defensive ends coach Sal Sunseri said there's still room for improvement.
"He's finding out that with what I want to do, it's taxing and we've got to get him into better shape," Sunseri said. "He's going to fight through it, and he's going to be good. He's got a lot of talent."
Fisher echoed those sentiments, saying that while Edwards might not be where he needs to be yet, he's not far off from where Werner and Jenkins were at the same point in their careers.
"He's that guy, a young guy, but he can take off," Fisher said. "He's at that stage where a lot of those other ends were. But he's got to continue to grow and let us push him."
For his part, Edwards said he's far more comfortable now than he was eight months ago, and new coordinator Jeremy Pruitt's defense has helped the adjustment.
"It's no more reading, it's just see it and go, more of an attack," Edwards said. "And being my second year, the speed of the game has slowed down. I'm feeling more comfortable."
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Jeremy Brevard/USA TODAY SportsMario Edwards Jr. has been up and down in his first spring at Florida State.
Jeremy Brevard/USA TODAY SportsMario Edwards Jr. has been up and down in his first spring at Florida State."He's still got to come on," Fisher said. "He's got to play much more consistent and get a little more of an urgency to him."
Edwards, who had five tackles, including 1.5 for a loss, in Monday's scrimmage, said he's trimmed 25 pounds off his frame since he arrived last summer, but new defensive ends coach Sal Sunseri said there's still room for improvement.
"He's finding out that with what I want to do, it's taxing and we've got to get him into better shape," Sunseri said. "He's going to fight through it, and he's going to be good. He's got a lot of talent."
Fisher echoed those sentiments, saying that while Edwards might not be where he needs to be yet, he's not far off from where Werner and Jenkins were at the same point in their careers.
"He's that guy, a young guy, but he can take off," Fisher said. "He's at that stage where a lot of those other ends were. But he's got to continue to grow and let us push him."
For his part, Edwards said he's far more comfortable now than he was eight months ago, and new coordinator Jeremy Pruitt's defense has helped the adjustment.
"It's no more reading, it's just see it and go, more of an attack," Edwards said. "And being my second year, the speed of the game has slowed down. I'm feeling more comfortable."
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Florida State wrapped up its first scrimmage of the spring Monday, but if Jimbo Fisher is any closer to picking a starting quarterback, he's playing his cards awfully close to his chest.
"Ain't even close," he said even before he could be pushed on the subject.
Still, Monday's practice gave the four men vying for the job a chance to test their knowledge without Fisher looking over their shoulders on each play, and for the most part, the coach said he's pleased with the results.
"Guys did some nice things, but we've got a long way to go," Fisher said.
Fisher insisted each of the four quarterbacks rotated with the first- and second-team offenses, though left tackle Cameron Erving said his starting line worked more with Jameis Winston and Clint Trickett than the others.
In any case, Fisher said he made a point to put each quarterback in adverse situations to see how they might react.
"We wanted to see pass blocking and we wanted to see the quarterbacks set in the pocket vs. a live blitz, making them stay in the pocket and making the line have to block," Fisher said. "We wanted to do that deliberately."
While most of this is old hat for Trickett, who is now in his fourth year of scrimmages in Fisher's offense, Winston, Sean Maguire and Jacob Coker all had moments of optimism Monday, which fit well with what Fisher was expecting.
He's still far from the finish line in deciding this competition, but the upside is that the four contenders aren't making it any easier.
"It kind of reaffirmed some things I'm seeing in practice, which is that I'm not unhappy at all," Fisher said. "They need to be more consistent, but I imagined that right now in terms of where we're at."
"Ain't even close," he said even before he could be pushed on the subject.
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AP Photo/Don Juan MooreJimbo Fisher liked what he saw from his QBs on Monday but insists the competition still is wide open.
AP Photo/Don Juan MooreJimbo Fisher liked what he saw from his QBs on Monday but insists the competition still is wide open."Guys did some nice things, but we've got a long way to go," Fisher said.
Fisher insisted each of the four quarterbacks rotated with the first- and second-team offenses, though left tackle Cameron Erving said his starting line worked more with Jameis Winston and Clint Trickett than the others.
In any case, Fisher said he made a point to put each quarterback in adverse situations to see how they might react.
"We wanted to see pass blocking and we wanted to see the quarterbacks set in the pocket vs. a live blitz, making them stay in the pocket and making the line have to block," Fisher said. "We wanted to do that deliberately."
While most of this is old hat for Trickett, who is now in his fourth year of scrimmages in Fisher's offense, Winston, Sean Maguire and Jacob Coker all had moments of optimism Monday, which fit well with what Fisher was expecting.
He's still far from the finish line in deciding this competition, but the upside is that the four contenders aren't making it any easier.
"It kind of reaffirmed some things I'm seeing in practice, which is that I'm not unhappy at all," Fisher said. "They need to be more consistent, but I imagined that right now in terms of where we're at."
FSU Notes: Maguire relishes underdog role
March, 25, 2013
Mar 25
7:53
PM ET
By
David M. Hale | ESPN.com
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Sean Maguire is the fourth man in a three-man race.
At least, that's the perception among most fans of the much-hyped quarterback competition at Florida State between veteran Clint Trickett, big-armed Jacob Coker and recruiting stud Jameis Winston, but Maguire isn't buying into that story. Sure, he's at the bottom of the totem poll when it comes to publicity, but Jimbo Fisher won't be picking a winner based on popularity.
"Everyone portrays it as them three, but in my mind, and I know in Coach Fisher's mind, I'm right there," said Maguire, a redshirt freshman from New Jersey. "I've been working hard, and this is my chance to prove I belong right there."
It's hard to fault the media hype surrounding the other three quarterbacks. They've all carved out their own dramatic narratives. For Maguire, however, his most intriguing characteristic might be his invisibility.
At Maguire ran a wing-T offense at Sparta (N.J.) Seton Hall Prep that diminished his recruiting hype. Like Coker, he might have gained some buzz once he arrived at FSU, but Maguire had the misfortune of coming in at the same time as Winston, the country's top recruit. Since then, he's toiled in the relative anonymity of working fifth on the depth chart. The lack of a spotlight, however, provides good motivation.
"I knew exactly who was here. It's not like I haven't seen them play. I came to practices when I was getting recruited," Maguire said. "I think the competition is awesome. I could've taken the easy way out and gone to some school up north and been starting, but I'd rather compete with the best. That's the way I look at it."
So Maguire has set his sights on proving the doubters wrong -- or, in some cases, simply reminding people he's in the mix, too. He's added about 15 pounds in his first year at FSU (up to about 210), made a priority of improving his footwork, and kept his nose in the playbook whenever possible.
"I love to stay in the weight room later than everyone or stay watching film or stay after practice and throw," Maguire said. "I feel like no matter what happens in life, if you continue to do that, you'll be eventually rewarded."
At least, that's the perception among most fans of the much-hyped quarterback competition at Florida State between veteran Clint Trickett, big-armed Jacob Coker and recruiting stud Jameis Winston, but Maguire isn't buying into that story. Sure, he's at the bottom of the totem poll when it comes to publicity, but Jimbo Fisher won't be picking a winner based on popularity.
"Everyone portrays it as them three, but in my mind, and I know in Coach Fisher's mind, I'm right there," said Maguire, a redshirt freshman from New Jersey. "I've been working hard, and this is my chance to prove I belong right there."
It's hard to fault the media hype surrounding the other three quarterbacks. They've all carved out their own dramatic narratives. For Maguire, however, his most intriguing characteristic might be his invisibility.
At Maguire ran a wing-T offense at Sparta (N.J.) Seton Hall Prep that diminished his recruiting hype. Like Coker, he might have gained some buzz once he arrived at FSU, but Maguire had the misfortune of coming in at the same time as Winston, the country's top recruit. Since then, he's toiled in the relative anonymity of working fifth on the depth chart. The lack of a spotlight, however, provides good motivation.
"I knew exactly who was here. It's not like I haven't seen them play. I came to practices when I was getting recruited," Maguire said. "I think the competition is awesome. I could've taken the easy way out and gone to some school up north and been starting, but I'd rather compete with the best. That's the way I look at it."
So Maguire has set his sights on proving the doubters wrong -- or, in some cases, simply reminding people he's in the mix, too. He's added about 15 pounds in his first year at FSU (up to about 210), made a priority of improving his footwork, and kept his nose in the playbook whenever possible.
"I love to stay in the weight room later than everyone or stay watching film or stay after practice and throw," Maguire said. "I feel like no matter what happens in life, if you continue to do that, you'll be eventually rewarded."
From the impending quarterback competition to finding replacements for departing juniors, Jimbo Fisher will have his work cut out for him during the next few months as he lays the groundwork for 2013.
With that in mind, we're going to go position-by-position looking at Florida State's strengths and weaknesses as the Seminoles prepare for the start of spring practice.
Previous entires can be found HERE.
Last up: Quarterback
2012 recap: It's not that Florida State fans universally loved EJ Manuel. In fact, few players on last season's roster proved quite as divisive as the veteran quarterback. But while Manuel's season offered highs and lows, and the fanbase included plenty of supporters and detractors, the overall body of work was impressive. Manuel's 156.03 QB rating and 8.8 yards per attempt were tops in the ACC (behind only Tajh Boyd) and his 68 percent completions led the conference. Manuel started every game for the first time in his career, too, meaning FSU's backups saw the fewest snaps during any season in more than a decade.
Departures: Manuel's durability and consistency might not have been fully appreciated by the fanbase in 2012, but it's certainly being noticed now that he's leaving. Manuel's tenure wrapped up a six-year period of relative calm at the position that coincided with Fisher's tenure with the program. Fisher tabbed Christian Ponder as a starter early on, and Manuel was the obvious heir apparent. Ponder became a first-round pick in the NFL draft, and Manuel still retains hopes of being one of the first quarterbacks off the board this year. Of course, the biggest question around Tallahassee after a season in which Manuel was responsible for 90 percent of the passing attempts is which of his backups will step into the starting job.
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Joel Auerbach/Getty ImagesWhile Florida State is loaded with talent at quarterback, redshirt freshman Jameis Winston stands out the most.
Joel Auerbach/Getty ImagesWhile Florida State is loaded with talent at quarterback, redshirt freshman Jameis Winston stands out the most.Previous entires can be found HERE.
Last up: Quarterback
2012 recap: It's not that Florida State fans universally loved EJ Manuel. In fact, few players on last season's roster proved quite as divisive as the veteran quarterback. But while Manuel's season offered highs and lows, and the fanbase included plenty of supporters and detractors, the overall body of work was impressive. Manuel's 156.03 QB rating and 8.8 yards per attempt were tops in the ACC (behind only Tajh Boyd) and his 68 percent completions led the conference. Manuel started every game for the first time in his career, too, meaning FSU's backups saw the fewest snaps during any season in more than a decade.
Departures: Manuel's durability and consistency might not have been fully appreciated by the fanbase in 2012, but it's certainly being noticed now that he's leaving. Manuel's tenure wrapped up a six-year period of relative calm at the position that coincided with Fisher's tenure with the program. Fisher tabbed Christian Ponder as a starter early on, and Manuel was the obvious heir apparent. Ponder became a first-round pick in the NFL draft, and Manuel still retains hopes of being one of the first quarterbacks off the board this year. Of course, the biggest question around Tallahassee after a season in which Manuel was responsible for 90 percent of the passing attempts is which of his backups will step into the starting job.
Is Florida State rebuilding or reloading?
March, 20, 2013
Mar 20
9:00
AM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
You look at the Florida State roster, and you look at the Florida State coaching staff, and the automatic assumption is this could be a rebuilding year for the Noles.
Jimbo Fisher does not see it that way. Not one bit. As spring practice opens today, Fisher needs to find new starters at some key positions, including quarterback, defensive end and linebacker. But he sees players who have had valuable playing experience ready to step right into starting roles, not wet-behind-the-ears freshmen in over their heads.
To him, there is no dropoff between the talent on his 2012 ACC winning team, and the talent on his 2013 team.
"I ask people this: Lawrence Dawsey is arguably one of the best receivers in Florida State history," Fisher said during his pre-spring news conference earlier this week. "How many years did he start here? He started one year. How about Odell (Haggins)? He was a linebacker that got moved. Nowadays he’d be, 'Oh, he wasn’t what we said he was, you moved him.'
"Just because you don’t start a game doesn’t mean you’re not starter material. Do you understand what I’m saying? We’re establishing ourselves as a program again and guys still played as much ball as anybody else."
Fisher gave a host of examples. Every starter on the defensive line is gone -- ends Bjoern Werner and Tank Carradine, and tackles Anthony McCloud and Everett Dawkins. But the players expected to move into the starting lineup played extensively last season. Mario Edwards Jr. and Giorgio Newberry will start with the first-team at end; Timmy Jernigan, perhaps the best interior lineman last year, moves up to start at one tackle spot.
Vince Williams and Nick Moody are gone at linebacker. Into the middle steps Telvin Smith, who has extensive game experience and should have no problems moving up.
Then of course, there is the quarterback spot, a position that folks across the ACC will be paying attention to as the competition begins. Clint Trickett starts out No. 1 on the depth chart, and here again is where playing time has helped him. Trickett has played in 16 games with two starts behind EJ Manuel the last two seasons.
The other three players competing for the starting job -- Jacob Coker, Sean Maguire and Jameis Winston -- have either limited or no game experience. That does not take them out of the mix by any stretch. Fisher already said the position is wide open, and he has no timetable to make a decision. But having game experience is certainly not going to hurt him as the Noles try to find their leader on offense.
"From a talent standpoint, I think we’re still a very talented football team and we have guys with a lot of experience still playing," Fisher said. "We look at returning starters sometimes, it’s a very misleading factor about depth of a team and how much guys have played behind them. I’m excited about these young guys. Even though they’re new starters, they've still played like starters."
As for the coaching changes, six new assistants will be on the field this spring, including new defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt. But Fisher downplayed those changes as well, saying nothing would change about philosophy or with the schemes the Noles run.
"We're going to do things the Florida State way, the way we've been doing," Fisher said.
That means plugging new guys into the starting lineup and believing there will be few hiccups along the way.
Jimbo Fisher does not see it that way. Not one bit. As spring practice opens today, Fisher needs to find new starters at some key positions, including quarterback, defensive end and linebacker. But he sees players who have had valuable playing experience ready to step right into starting roles, not wet-behind-the-ears freshmen in over their heads.
To him, there is no dropoff between the talent on his 2012 ACC winning team, and the talent on his 2013 team.
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Mitch Stringer/USA TODAY SportsThere will be a competition for FSU"s starting quarterback, but Clint Trickett has more game experience than the others.
Mitch Stringer/USA TODAY SportsThere will be a competition for FSU"s starting quarterback, but Clint Trickett has more game experience than the others."Just because you don’t start a game doesn’t mean you’re not starter material. Do you understand what I’m saying? We’re establishing ourselves as a program again and guys still played as much ball as anybody else."
Fisher gave a host of examples. Every starter on the defensive line is gone -- ends Bjoern Werner and Tank Carradine, and tackles Anthony McCloud and Everett Dawkins. But the players expected to move into the starting lineup played extensively last season. Mario Edwards Jr. and Giorgio Newberry will start with the first-team at end; Timmy Jernigan, perhaps the best interior lineman last year, moves up to start at one tackle spot.
Vince Williams and Nick Moody are gone at linebacker. Into the middle steps Telvin Smith, who has extensive game experience and should have no problems moving up.
Then of course, there is the quarterback spot, a position that folks across the ACC will be paying attention to as the competition begins. Clint Trickett starts out No. 1 on the depth chart, and here again is where playing time has helped him. Trickett has played in 16 games with two starts behind EJ Manuel the last two seasons.
The other three players competing for the starting job -- Jacob Coker, Sean Maguire and Jameis Winston -- have either limited or no game experience. That does not take them out of the mix by any stretch. Fisher already said the position is wide open, and he has no timetable to make a decision. But having game experience is certainly not going to hurt him as the Noles try to find their leader on offense.
"From a talent standpoint, I think we’re still a very talented football team and we have guys with a lot of experience still playing," Fisher said. "We look at returning starters sometimes, it’s a very misleading factor about depth of a team and how much guys have played behind them. I’m excited about these young guys. Even though they’re new starters, they've still played like starters."
As for the coaching changes, six new assistants will be on the field this spring, including new defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt. But Fisher downplayed those changes as well, saying nothing would change about philosophy or with the schemes the Noles run.
"We're going to do things the Florida State way, the way we've been doing," Fisher said.
That means plugging new guys into the starting lineup and believing there will be few hiccups along the way.
Editor’s note: Each day until the start of spring practice, we’ll pose a question facing Florida State's football team as it moves toward the 2013 season. Today’s question: Will FSU have its new starting quarterback in time for the spring game?
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Jimbo Fisher previewed spring practice Monday by offering a well worn bit of coach speak, insisting every spot on the depth chart is an open competition. Of course, even if that were true, none would be quite as interesting as the battle for the starting quarterback job.
While Fisher might be liberally defining the competition at other spots on the roster, this one really is a wide open race, and picking the favorite is little more than conjecture until Clint Trickett, Jacob Coker, Jameis Winston and Sean Maguire get onto the field.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Jimbo Fisher previewed spring practice Monday by offering a well worn bit of coach speak, insisting every spot on the depth chart is an open competition. Of course, even if that were true, none would be quite as interesting as the battle for the starting quarterback job.
While Fisher might be liberally defining the competition at other spots on the roster, this one really is a wide open race, and picking the favorite is little more than conjecture until Clint Trickett, Jacob Coker, Jameis Winston and Sean Maguire get onto the field.
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FSU QB Clint Trickett enters spring as No. 1
March, 18, 2013
Mar 18
2:00
PM ET
By
Heather Dinich | ESPN.com
As expected, Florida State quarterback Clint Trickett will enter the spring as the Seminoles’ No. 1 quarterback, coach Jimbo Fisher said on Monday at his news conference, but the competition to replace former starter EJ Manuel remains open.
“I have no timetable on anything,” Fisher said of naming his starter for the season opener against Pittsburgh. “I never put a timetable on anything.”
Trickett will be competing with Jacob Coker, Jameis Winston and Sean Maguire when FSU starts spring practices on Wednesday. Trickett is the most experienced candidate, as he played in 16 games over the past two seasons with two starts as a backup to Manuel in 2011. Winston, though, is the one with the hype. He was the top player at his position in the 2012 recruiting class, and he has further added to his resume with the FSU baseball team. Despite his commitment to baseball, Winston is not expected to miss any football practices.
Fisher said not enough attention has been given to Maguire, a pro-style quarterback out of New Jersey.
“I like him,” Fisher said. “Everybody kind of forgets about him and nobody talks about him, but he wasn’t recruited here to sit the bench, either.”
Fisher said each quarterback will receive the same reps, and that consistency is the intangible that will eventually separate them.
“At the end of the day, the guy who moves the team down the field and scores the points and puts you in the best position to win,” Fisher said, “at the end of the day, that’s what the job is.”
“I have no timetable on anything,” Fisher said of naming his starter for the season opener against Pittsburgh. “I never put a timetable on anything.”
Trickett will be competing with Jacob Coker, Jameis Winston and Sean Maguire when FSU starts spring practices on Wednesday. Trickett is the most experienced candidate, as he played in 16 games over the past two seasons with two starts as a backup to Manuel in 2011. Winston, though, is the one with the hype. He was the top player at his position in the 2012 recruiting class, and he has further added to his resume with the FSU baseball team. Despite his commitment to baseball, Winston is not expected to miss any football practices.
Fisher said not enough attention has been given to Maguire, a pro-style quarterback out of New Jersey.
“I like him,” Fisher said. “Everybody kind of forgets about him and nobody talks about him, but he wasn’t recruited here to sit the bench, either.”
Fisher said each quarterback will receive the same reps, and that consistency is the intangible that will eventually separate them.
“At the end of the day, the guy who moves the team down the field and scores the points and puts you in the best position to win,” Fisher said, “at the end of the day, that’s what the job is.”
Fisher: Edwards' redshirt an obvious choice
September, 3, 2012
9/03/12
2:16
PM ET
By
David M. Hale | ESPN.com
Mario Edwards Jr. might have been the No. 1 recruit in the nation a year ago, but Jimbo Fisher said the freshman is No. 5 on Florida State's defensive end depth chart, which means he won't get any playing time in 2012.
Fisher said the lack of available reps behind incumbents Bjoern Werner, Brandon Jenkins and Cornellius Carradine led the coaching staff to decide to redshirt Edwards despite a strong performance during fall camp.
"You've got three guys that are possible first- or second-round draft pick guys," Fisher said of his depth chart at the position. "To waste a year on a guy for five, six, seven plays a game makes no sense. We can play him five, six or seven plays, but how much do you gain? There's a lot more to lose in our opinion."
Edwards is one of 10 FSU freshmen expected to redshirt this season, but he was the only one not dressed for Florida State's opener against Murray State on Saturday.
Fisher said it was Edwards' decision not to dress, and that each redshirt player is given the choice before each game. Fisher said players might opt not to dress based on family members attending the game or other issues, but he did not offer any indication as to why Edwards, who along with all FSU freshmen is not made available to the media, chose against dressing for the first game of his college career.
"You don't have to dress. We'll have guys that will and guys that won't," Fisher said. "There was a situation last week, and [Edwards] will probably dress this week. But I give every guy their choice on that."
Edwards is the son of former FSU cornerback Mario Edwards Sr., who currently works for the university as a player development coordinator -- an administrative position that works closely with the coaching staff.
While the redshirt for Edwards comes as somewhat of a surprise given the defensive end's hype on the recruiting circuit, Fisher said the decision isn't indicative of any shortcomings Edwards displayed on the field.
"I'm not one bit disappointed," Fisher said. "What we saw on film and what we thought he was, we think he's exactly that right now. He could be even more. He's actually stronger and more powerful than I even realized."
Still, Edwards checked in at nearly 300 pounds upon arrival this summer, and Fisher said he hopes the redshirt season will provide the freshman with an opportunity to shed a few pounds while getting a better grasp on the playbook.
Fisher said Edwards was not upset by the decision, saying the two "had a good conversation" about the redshirt.
In addition to Edwards, Fisher said fellow defensive end Chris Casher, defensive tackle Justin Shanks, defensive back Colin Blake, linebacker Markuss Eligwe and receiver Marvin Bracy are all expected to redshirt as well.
Bracy has been limited since the spring with a nagging hamstring injury, and Fisher said there's still a chance he could work his way into a smaller role on offense this year, assuming the injury is fully healed now.
"If his hamstring will hold up, we may try to give him four or five things -- the return game and teach him four or five things on offense to get real good at and judge that as we go," Fisher said. "But we've got to do that hopefully this week. I'm anxious to see where he's at -- full, full speed."
Quarterbacks Jameis Winston and Sean Maguire and kicker Roberto Aguayo will also redshirt, along with freshman running back Mario Pender, who will miss the season with a groin injury, and senior defensive tackle Jacobbi McDaniel, who is still recovering from an ankle injury suffered last season.
Fisher said the lack of available reps behind incumbents Bjoern Werner, Brandon Jenkins and Cornellius Carradine led the coaching staff to decide to redshirt Edwards despite a strong performance during fall camp.
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Kevin Jairaj/US PresswireMario Edwards Jr., a top recruit in the 2012 class, will redshirt as a freshman at Florida State.
Kevin Jairaj/US PresswireMario Edwards Jr., a top recruit in the 2012 class, will redshirt as a freshman at Florida State.Edwards is one of 10 FSU freshmen expected to redshirt this season, but he was the only one not dressed for Florida State's opener against Murray State on Saturday.
Fisher said it was Edwards' decision not to dress, and that each redshirt player is given the choice before each game. Fisher said players might opt not to dress based on family members attending the game or other issues, but he did not offer any indication as to why Edwards, who along with all FSU freshmen is not made available to the media, chose against dressing for the first game of his college career.
"You don't have to dress. We'll have guys that will and guys that won't," Fisher said. "There was a situation last week, and [Edwards] will probably dress this week. But I give every guy their choice on that."
Edwards is the son of former FSU cornerback Mario Edwards Sr., who currently works for the university as a player development coordinator -- an administrative position that works closely with the coaching staff.
While the redshirt for Edwards comes as somewhat of a surprise given the defensive end's hype on the recruiting circuit, Fisher said the decision isn't indicative of any shortcomings Edwards displayed on the field.
"I'm not one bit disappointed," Fisher said. "What we saw on film and what we thought he was, we think he's exactly that right now. He could be even more. He's actually stronger and more powerful than I even realized."
Still, Edwards checked in at nearly 300 pounds upon arrival this summer, and Fisher said he hopes the redshirt season will provide the freshman with an opportunity to shed a few pounds while getting a better grasp on the playbook.
Fisher said Edwards was not upset by the decision, saying the two "had a good conversation" about the redshirt.
In addition to Edwards, Fisher said fellow defensive end Chris Casher, defensive tackle Justin Shanks, defensive back Colin Blake, linebacker Markuss Eligwe and receiver Marvin Bracy are all expected to redshirt as well.
Bracy has been limited since the spring with a nagging hamstring injury, and Fisher said there's still a chance he could work his way into a smaller role on offense this year, assuming the injury is fully healed now.
"If his hamstring will hold up, we may try to give him four or five things -- the return game and teach him four or five things on offense to get real good at and judge that as we go," Fisher said. "But we've got to do that hopefully this week. I'm anxious to see where he's at -- full, full speed."
Quarterbacks Jameis Winston and Sean Maguire and kicker Roberto Aguayo will also redshirt, along with freshman running back Mario Pender, who will miss the season with a groin injury, and senior defensive tackle Jacobbi McDaniel, who is still recovering from an ankle injury suffered last season.
ABOUT NOLE NATION
David Hale
David Hale joined ESPN.com in 2012 after covering the Philadelphia Phillies for The News Journal in Wilmington, Del., and the University of Georgia for The Macon (Ga.) Telegraph. Hale has written about college and professional sports since 2004. He currently lives in Tallahassee, Fla., and can be reached at davidmhale@gmail.com.
Corey Dowlar
Corey Dowlar joined ESPN.com in 2012 after covering Florida State and South Florida athletics for 247Sports.com and Rivals.com. Dowlar has written about Florida State sports and recruiting since 2007. He currently lives in Clearwater, Fla., and can be reached at cdowlar@gmail.com.