Florida State vs. North Alabama: Three Key Matchups On Senior Day

The Florida State Seminoles are playing North Alabama for the first time in program history as they continue to build on undefeated season.

The Florida State Seminoles are 10-0 heading into Week 12 of the college football season. The College Football Playoff hopes remain high, and their matchup against North Alabama doesn't deter that. 

The North Alabama Lions haven't faced a Power Five school in a very, very long time. They're 3-7 on their season with a two-game streak leading into this one.

This game is very simple for the Seminoles. They've got to take care of business at their place. 

FSU Linebacker Kalen DeLoach Among ACC Players of the Week After Performance Against Miami

Here are three keys for the Seminoles as they host the Lions.

1. Florida State Passing Game vs. Lions Pass Defense

As mentioned, this is a game the Seminoles should win easily, and there won't be much of a contest. While the Seminoles outmatch the Lions in totality, still, they can take advantage of North Alabama's weaknesses.

According to PFF, the Lions' run defense is much better than their pass defense. Jordan Travis will be able to find Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson for some big plays to begin to run the score up. 

While it would be easy for the Seminoles to run the ball and win the game, they'll also be able to air the ball out and build a big enough lead to pull the starters and let some of the younger guys get some game action. 

It's also a good game for Travis to run up his numbers. He's got 2,734 passing yards on the season and a 20/2 passing touchdown to interception ratio. With a 64 percent completion percentage, he can give his stats a facelift before the Seminoles prepare for their season finale and his final regular season game with the team.

2. Florida State Pass Defense vs. Noah Walters

Obviously, the Seminoles are the overpowered team in this scenario, but taking away the Lions' passing game entirely will help this game get out of hand quickly.

Walters is the Lions' best offensive producer and is the quarterback for the team. He's thrown for 2,280 yards and 19 touchdowns while completing 59% of his passes this season. He has, however, thrown 12 interceptions.

This will be a big opportunity for the secondary to come away with some turnovers (and maybe even score a defensive touchdown). 

3. Florida State Defensive Line vs. Lions Offensive Line

If there's one way for the Seminoles to look like the much more superior team, it's dominating in the trenches.

If Florida State's secondary can do its job, the Lions will have to divert to the ground game to avoid any turnovers or big mistakes. According to PFF, the Lions' run blocking is much worse than their pass protection, meaning it'll be hard for them to move the ball.

No matter what aspect of the game, the defensive line should be able to control things. Creating pressures, stuffing the run, and finishing some flashy sacks will all be in the cards for the Seminoles this week.

---

READ MORE: Florida State's Offensive Line Among 12 Joe Moore Semifinalists

Stick with NoleGameday for more coverage of Florida State football throughout the 2023 season.

Follow NoleGameday on Twitter and Facebook