WINSTON-SALEM- The Seminoles continued their tear through the ACC with a dominant win over Wake Forest. The Florida State offense and defense had a field day with their latest ACC victim.
The Noles pass game was unreal on Saturday with quarterback Jordan Travis completing 18 passes for 359 yards and a trio of touchdowns. But, arguably more impressive was the receiving core. Florida State had five receivers with multiple receptions, including three with four or more. Keon Coleman led the team with seven receptions for 66 yards and a pair touchdowns, but it was running back Trey Benson who had a truly special day with the receiving core. In addition to his 55 rushing yards and rushing touchdown, Benson caught four passes for 100 yards and a touchdown.
The Noles defense was dressed to impress as well holding eight Wake Forest rushers to just 128 yards on 49 carries. They also limited the passing game significantly as quarterback Mitch Griffis completed just six of his 16 passes for 82 yards.
Florida State’s front seven were in Wake Forest’s backfield all day as they racked up six sacks and ten tackles for a loss. While the Noles were unable to force any turnovers, the sheer lack of offense from Wake Forest was staggering.
As they have for most of the year, Florida State still sits at number four in the CFB rankings as one of five teams in the top ten with unblemished records. However, it is likely that FSU will move up in the last week of the season.
Michigan and Ohio State, who sit at two and three respectively, will face off at the end of the regular season, which will likely result in a demotion for the loser behind Florida State. In addition, Washington, who currently sits at number five, is making a strong push for the College Football Playoffs. Some experts have even ranked the Huskies ahead of Georgia after their big win over Oregon.
With a relatively easy schedule remaining, it is likely the Noles will win out and head to the College Football Playoffs. No matter who wins between Michigan and Ohio State, the season will likely culminate in a battle against the Wolverines or Buckeyes to get to the title game.
First, however, The Noles have to focus on Pitt and Miami, their toughest games left on the schedule.