Florida State's receivers present a big challenge for Clemson
Saturday's matchup between Florida State and Clemson will be a monumental challenge for both teams. The Seminoles are trying to put themselves in the ACC's driver's seat early, while Clemson is trying to stay alive in the conference race.
Both teams feature a plethora of talent, but one group stands out in particular for the Seminoles: wide receiver. Prior to the season, everyone knew Florida State would be good out wide. The 6-foot-7 Johnny Wilson was returning for another year, but it's been the emergence of Keon Coleman, a Michigan State transfer, that's put this group over the top.
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Coleman made a statement in his debut for the 'Noles, hauling in three touchdowns and scorching the LSU secondary for 122 yards. At 6-foot-4, Coleman is an imposing figure outside, but almost diminutive next to Wilson. As for Wilson, he currently leads the team with 209 yards and is averaging a strong 19.0 yards per catch. Throw in tight end Jahiem Bell, 6-foot-3, and you have a size mismatch at every position on passing downs.
Now, Clemson may be one of the better secondaries to match up with the size. For context, here's Clemson's starting secondary: CB Sheridan Jones (6'0), CB Nate Wiggins (6'2), S R.J. Mickens (6'0), S Jalyn Phillips (6'1), and NB Khalil Barnes (6'0).
Florida State does a great job of using its size to steal big plays, taking shots down the sidelines. The big-bodied receivers come down with the ball more often than not or defenders panic and drag them down, drawing a flag for pass interference. Clemson's secondary will have to be dialed in all game and play clean if they're going to slow down the 'Noles.
