FSU Seminoles: Jacob Coker
Jameis Winston's ascent to Florida State's heir apparent at quarterback, and Clint Trickett's subsequent transfer from the program, have changed things for the Seminoles' recruiting tactics at the position for 2014.
J.J. Cosentino is the first and only commitment for Seminoles coach Jimbo Fisher at quarterback so far. But FSU very well could take two.
So who will be the second?
Targets
J.J. Cosentino (Pittsburgh/Central Catholic), 6-foot-5, 220 pounds
J.J. Cosentino is the first and only commitment for Seminoles coach Jimbo Fisher at quarterback so far. But FSU very well could take two.
So who will be the second?
Targets
J.J. Cosentino (Pittsburgh/Central Catholic), 6-foot-5, 220 pounds
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FLORIDA STATE SEMINOLES
2012 record: 12-2
2012 conference record: 7-1
Returning starters: Offense 6, Defense 5, Kicker/Punter 1
Top returners
WR Rashad Greene, LT Cameron Erving, C Bryan Stork, LB Christian Jones, LB Telvin Smith, DB Lamarcus Joyner, DT Timmy Jernigan
Key losses
QB EJ Manuel, RT Menelik Watson, RB Chris Thompson, DE Bjoern Werner, DE Cornellius Carradine, CB Xavier Rhodes, K Dustin Hopkins
2012 statistical leaders (*returning)
Rushing: Chris Thompson (687 yards)
Passing: EJ Manuel (3,392 yards)
Receiving: Rashad Greene* (741 yards)
Tackles: Christian Jones* (95)
Sacks: Bjoern Werner (13)
Interceptions: Xavier Rhodes, Tyler Hunter* (3)
Spring answers:
1. Changes on D: New coordinator Jeremy Pruitt brought a slew of new schemes with him from Alabama, meaning the FSU defense won't look all that much like the one that finished second in the nation in 2012. With the loss of five former starters from the defensive line, that's probably a good thing. Pruitt's scheme will be more aggressive and bring a lot more blitzes, allowing FSU to get pressure from other areas.
2. Beating Hart: When right tackle Menelik Watson made the somewhat surprising decision to leave FSU after just a year to enter the NFL draft, all eyes turned to junior Bobby Hart, whose turbulent career with the Seminoles was already well documented. Hart started as a 17-year-old freshman in 2011, but problems with his work ethic derailed his sophomore season and he found himself on the bench. He appeared to work his way back into line coach Rick Trickett's good graces by the end of the spring, however, and he'll be crucial to maintaining the continuity of the line without Watson.
3. Famous Jameis: Jimbo Fisher still isn't calling the contest over, but it certainly looks like redshirt freshman Jameis Winston is in the driver's seat to take over for Manuel as FSU's new starting quarterback. Winston shined throughout the spring and delivered a monster performance in the Seminoles' Garnet and Gold game, completing 13 of 15 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns. A week later, junior QB Clint Trickett announced he was transferring.
Fall questions:
1. Winston, Part II: Yes, the spring was impressive for Winston, but as Fisher was quick to point out, he'll need to pick up right where he left off in the fall if FSU is going to make a smooth transition at a position that's been remarkably stable for the past five years. Jacob Coker remains in competition -- and he should be fully healed after breaking a bone in his foot that limited this spring -- but the loss of Trickett puts a lot of pressure on Winston to step up, particularly with a daunting road contest at new ACC member Pittsburgh looming in the season opener.
2. New-look secondary: Lamarcus Joyner appeared to make a relatively smooth transition from safety to corner, but FSU didn't get much of a look at what will constitute the secondary in 2013. Key players such as Tyler Hunter, Nick Waisome and Ronald Darby were all hurt, while promising freshman Jalen Ramsey had yet to arrive. The group will finally all work together during fall camp.
3. Just for kicks: Redshirt freshman Roberto Aguayo showed off his powerful leg during FSU's spring game, connecting on three long field goals, including a 58-yarder to close out the game. Still, replacing the NCAA's all-time leading scorer among kickers won't be an easy task. Dustin Hopkins was as reliable as it gets for FSU, and Aguayo still needs to show he can handle the pressure of making a big kick with the game on the line.
2012 record: 12-2
2012 conference record: 7-1
Returning starters: Offense 6, Defense 5, Kicker/Punter 1
Top returners
WR Rashad Greene, LT Cameron Erving, C Bryan Stork, LB Christian Jones, LB Telvin Smith, DB Lamarcus Joyner, DT Timmy Jernigan
Key losses
QB EJ Manuel, RT Menelik Watson, RB Chris Thompson, DE Bjoern Werner, DE Cornellius Carradine, CB Xavier Rhodes, K Dustin Hopkins
2012 statistical leaders (*returning)
Rushing: Chris Thompson (687 yards)
Passing: EJ Manuel (3,392 yards)
Receiving: Rashad Greene* (741 yards)
Tackles: Christian Jones* (95)
Sacks: Bjoern Werner (13)
Interceptions: Xavier Rhodes, Tyler Hunter* (3)
Spring answers:
1. Changes on D: New coordinator Jeremy Pruitt brought a slew of new schemes with him from Alabama, meaning the FSU defense won't look all that much like the one that finished second in the nation in 2012. With the loss of five former starters from the defensive line, that's probably a good thing. Pruitt's scheme will be more aggressive and bring a lot more blitzes, allowing FSU to get pressure from other areas.
2. Beating Hart: When right tackle Menelik Watson made the somewhat surprising decision to leave FSU after just a year to enter the NFL draft, all eyes turned to junior Bobby Hart, whose turbulent career with the Seminoles was already well documented. Hart started as a 17-year-old freshman in 2011, but problems with his work ethic derailed his sophomore season and he found himself on the bench. He appeared to work his way back into line coach Rick Trickett's good graces by the end of the spring, however, and he'll be crucial to maintaining the continuity of the line without Watson.
3. Famous Jameis: Jimbo Fisher still isn't calling the contest over, but it certainly looks like redshirt freshman Jameis Winston is in the driver's seat to take over for Manuel as FSU's new starting quarterback. Winston shined throughout the spring and delivered a monster performance in the Seminoles' Garnet and Gold game, completing 13 of 15 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns. A week later, junior QB Clint Trickett announced he was transferring.
Fall questions:
1. Winston, Part II: Yes, the spring was impressive for Winston, but as Fisher was quick to point out, he'll need to pick up right where he left off in the fall if FSU is going to make a smooth transition at a position that's been remarkably stable for the past five years. Jacob Coker remains in competition -- and he should be fully healed after breaking a bone in his foot that limited this spring -- but the loss of Trickett puts a lot of pressure on Winston to step up, particularly with a daunting road contest at new ACC member Pittsburgh looming in the season opener.
2. New-look secondary: Lamarcus Joyner appeared to make a relatively smooth transition from safety to corner, but FSU didn't get much of a look at what will constitute the secondary in 2013. Key players such as Tyler Hunter, Nick Waisome and Ronald Darby were all hurt, while promising freshman Jalen Ramsey had yet to arrive. The group will finally all work together during fall camp.
3. Just for kicks: Redshirt freshman Roberto Aguayo showed off his powerful leg during FSU's spring game, connecting on three long field goals, including a 58-yarder to close out the game. Still, replacing the NCAA's all-time leading scorer among kickers won't be an easy task. Dustin Hopkins was as reliable as it gets for FSU, and Aguayo still needs to show he can handle the pressure of making a big kick with the game on the line.
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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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Jameis Winston had already reached cult status before he arrived at Florida State, but for the past year, the legend has been glimpsed only from afar, burnished by tall tales from secondhand sources and, of course, the occasional YouTube video of the highly touted quarterback chucking footballs over fraternity houses.
But Saturday's spring game at Florida State was different. The legend took the stage in front of fans for the first time, and Winston didn't disappoint.
On his first play from scrimmage -- just a few seconds into the second quarter -- Winston found walk-on receiver David Tyrell for a 58-yard touchdown pass, the first of three scoring drives he'd lead the No. 1 offense on in the game. It was a show-stopping debut on the big stage and also an emphatic exclamation point on a spring that vaunted the redshirt freshman to the forefront of FSU's quarterback competition.
"You have no choice but to see the talent and the uniqueness he has," said cornerback Lamarcus Joyner, who was beat twice on touchdown throws by Winston on Saturday.
Jimbo Fisher still isn't naming a starting quarterback. In fact, he didn't so much as reshuffle the depth chart in the immediate aftermath of Saturday's spring game, but it's impossible to ignore what Winston is capable of becoming if he's given the opportunity.
In all, Winston finished the day having completed 12 of 15 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns, and he might have scored a third on the ground had referees not blown an early whistle on a scramble to avoid any significant contact from defenders.
Winston's day ended a bit early, too. He wasn't on the field during the latter half of the fourth quarter, but he still managed to add to the legend by quickly changing clothes and darting across the parking lot to join the baseball team for Saturday night's game against Duke.
Winston's presence, his personality and his potential make him the center of attention regardless of whether Fisher is ready to name him the starter.
[+] Enlarge
Melina Vastola/USA TODAY SportsJameis Winston drew oohs and aahs from the crowd with his two touchdown passes.
Melina Vastola/USA TODAY SportsJameis Winston drew oohs and aahs from the crowd with his two touchdown passes.On his first play from scrimmage -- just a few seconds into the second quarter -- Winston found walk-on receiver David Tyrell for a 58-yard touchdown pass, the first of three scoring drives he'd lead the No. 1 offense on in the game. It was a show-stopping debut on the big stage and also an emphatic exclamation point on a spring that vaunted the redshirt freshman to the forefront of FSU's quarterback competition.
"You have no choice but to see the talent and the uniqueness he has," said cornerback Lamarcus Joyner, who was beat twice on touchdown throws by Winston on Saturday.
Jimbo Fisher still isn't naming a starting quarterback. In fact, he didn't so much as reshuffle the depth chart in the immediate aftermath of Saturday's spring game, but it's impossible to ignore what Winston is capable of becoming if he's given the opportunity.
In all, Winston finished the day having completed 12 of 15 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns, and he might have scored a third on the ground had referees not blown an early whistle on a scramble to avoid any significant contact from defenders.
Winston's day ended a bit early, too. He wasn't on the field during the latter half of the fourth quarter, but he still managed to add to the legend by quickly changing clothes and darting across the parking lot to join the baseball team for Saturday night's game against Duke.
Winston's presence, his personality and his potential make him the center of attention regardless of whether Fisher is ready to name him the starter.
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."
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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."
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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."
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Florida State is halfway through spring practice, and while the bulk of the big questions looming over the team still need answering, there's been some marked progress along the way. Here are a handful of the most noteworthy stories from Week 2 of the spring.
Trickett leads the pack: By no means is the quarterback competition drawing to a close. If anything, it's just getting started. But as the calendar flips to April, it's clear that the veteran, Clint Trickett, is leading the pack.
While Trickett might not have the arm strength or mobility that has made Jameis Winston and Jacob Coker such intriguing options, he's got the best handle on the offense and, during the practices open to media, has been the most accurate of the bunch.
Trickett leads the pack: By no means is the quarterback competition drawing to a close. If anything, it's just getting started. But as the calendar flips to April, it's clear that the veteran, Clint Trickett, is leading the pack.
While Trickett might not have the arm strength or mobility that has made Jameis Winston and Jacob Coker such intriguing options, he's got the best handle on the offense and, during the practices open to media, has been the most accurate of the bunch.
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- With the departure of stalwart fullback Lonnie Pryor, Florida State's offense might rely a bit more on the tight ends in 2013, and that could be a boon for Kevin Haplea.
The senior, who transferred from Penn State just days before the start of fall camp last season, has impressed new tight ends coach Tim Brewster with his ability to do all the little things necessary at the line of scrimmage.
Kim Klement/USA TODAY SportsKevin Haplea had to adjust to Florida State's offense on the fly last year after transferring from Penn State."Haplea has a little thump to him," Brewster said. "He's the type of guy that I think can become a post player, and we're looking for a post player -- a guy that can dominate on the line of scrimmage. Because one thing we're going to do is, we're going to run the football."
While Chad Abram looks to have the fullback spot locked up, he may not offer the same versatility that Pryor brought to the FSU offense a year ago, and Jimbo Fisher has hinted that he could look to use starting tight end Nick O'Leary as a halfback and potentially run a lot more two- and three-tight end sets.
That could mean a good bit more work for Haplea, who is finding his footing in Year 2 with the program. Fisher said Haplea has caught more passes during the past few days of practice than he did all of last season.
O'Leary is still the starter at the position, and he's outpaces his competition in terms of potential by a strong margin. But while Haplea has excelled at the fundamentals, O'Leary is still working on the nuance of his position and hoping to overcome some ugly mistakes he made in 2012.
"He's a guy that's got tremendous talent, but he needs to understand that the details of the game are very important," Brewster said. "The fundamental aspects of tight end play, all the little things are important. It's not about the big picture, it's about seeing the little picture, the little things involved in every play."
Fisher said O'Leary continues to mature, and he hopes to see the junior tight end blossom into a dominant force this season. There have been some encouraging signs this spring, but O'Leary remains a work in progress.
"If he gets those little things, he's really tough to handle," Fisher said. "The details are more refined, and that's the challenge for him right now."
The senior, who transferred from Penn State just days before the start of fall camp last season, has impressed new tight ends coach Tim Brewster with his ability to do all the little things necessary at the line of scrimmage.
Kim Klement/USA TODAY SportsKevin Haplea had to adjust to Florida State's offense on the fly last year after transferring from Penn State.While Chad Abram looks to have the fullback spot locked up, he may not offer the same versatility that Pryor brought to the FSU offense a year ago, and Jimbo Fisher has hinted that he could look to use starting tight end Nick O'Leary as a halfback and potentially run a lot more two- and three-tight end sets.
That could mean a good bit more work for Haplea, who is finding his footing in Year 2 with the program. Fisher said Haplea has caught more passes during the past few days of practice than he did all of last season.
O'Leary is still the starter at the position, and he's outpaces his competition in terms of potential by a strong margin. But while Haplea has excelled at the fundamentals, O'Leary is still working on the nuance of his position and hoping to overcome some ugly mistakes he made in 2012.
"He's a guy that's got tremendous talent, but he needs to understand that the details of the game are very important," Brewster said. "The fundamental aspects of tight end play, all the little things are important. It's not about the big picture, it's about seeing the little picture, the little things involved in every play."
Fisher said O'Leary continues to mature, and he hopes to see the junior tight end blossom into a dominant force this season. There have been some encouraging signs this spring, but O'Leary remains a work in progress.
"If he gets those little things, he's really tough to handle," Fisher said. "The details are more refined, and that's the challenge for him right now."
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- In Florida State's penultimate game of 2012, Karlos Williams finally reached his potential. It's just that his breakthrough performance didn't exactly come in the fashion anyone had anticipated.
Williams, a safety during his first two seasons with the Seminoles, was an emergency substitute at linebacker in FSU's ACC Championship Game win over Georgia Tech, racking up a game-high 11 tackles in the process. Immediately fans wondered if he'd finally found a niche. Williams wasn't so sure.
"I definitely didn't want to end up playing linebacker," Williams said.
Williams said his height wasn't ideally suited to the position, and as one of the team's faster players -- and starting kick returner -- he wasn't all that interested in adding any significant weight.
As it turned out, however, Williams didn't need to make the switch to find a chance at a full-time job.
With Lamarcus Joyner's unexpected switch from safety to corner, Williams is finally on the verge of locking down significant playing time, and he didn't have to move from safety to do it.
"I've been preparing myself for the past two years to be in the starting position if I've earned the right," Williams said. "So this spring I'm trying to earn the right to start."
Ironically though, Williams' new role might not be limited exclusively to safety. With new coordinator Jeremy Pruitt taking a more aggressive approach on the pass rush, Williams could still find himself playing some nickel and, of course, some linebacker on a part-time basis. And that, Williams said, is just fine.
"Hopefully, in this system, playing the money linebacker a little bit," Williams said. "I hope I get a little more experience with that."
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AP Photo/Chuck BurtonDespite having a career game at LB against Georgia Tech, Karlos Williams will play safety for FSU this season.
AP Photo/Chuck BurtonDespite having a career game at LB against Georgia Tech, Karlos Williams will play safety for FSU this season."I definitely didn't want to end up playing linebacker," Williams said.
Williams said his height wasn't ideally suited to the position, and as one of the team's faster players -- and starting kick returner -- he wasn't all that interested in adding any significant weight.
As it turned out, however, Williams didn't need to make the switch to find a chance at a full-time job.
With Lamarcus Joyner's unexpected switch from safety to corner, Williams is finally on the verge of locking down significant playing time, and he didn't have to move from safety to do it.
"I've been preparing myself for the past two years to be in the starting position if I've earned the right," Williams said. "So this spring I'm trying to earn the right to start."
Ironically though, Williams' new role might not be limited exclusively to safety. With new coordinator Jeremy Pruitt taking a more aggressive approach on the pass rush, Williams could still find himself playing some nickel and, of course, some linebacker on a part-time basis. And that, Williams said, is just fine.
"Hopefully, in this system, playing the money linebacker a little bit," Williams said. "I hope I get a little more experience with that."
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."
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.