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Florida State Football: 5 breakout candidates during 2017 spring game

By Jerran Anderson

Sep 12, 2015; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive tackle Giorgio Newberry (4) warms up with defensive end Josh Sweat (9) before the game against the South Florida Bulls at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 12, 2015; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive tackle Giorgio Newberry (4) warms up with defensive end Josh Sweat (9) before the game against the South Florida Bulls at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 30, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Amara Darboh (82) makes a catch behind Florida State Seminoles defensive back Tarvarus McFadden (4) during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Amara Darboh (82) makes a catch behind Florida State Seminoles defensive back Tarvarus McFadden (4) during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Florida State Seminoles cornerback Tarvarus McFadden isn’t a heavy-hitter but he’s got a nose for the football in coverage. With safety Derwin James returning in the secondary, McFadden is a player who can thrive off James’ play.

In 2016, McFadden didn’t rack up a whole lot of tackles, although he did have 19 total tackles (16 solo, 3 assisted) and 3.0 tackles for loss. But he did record eight interceptions as well. He was superb for the Seminoles in pass coverage coming in first in the FBS and ACC in interceptions. He also finished with six pass breakups.

McFadden didn’t have too bad of a season considering he recorded an interception in all but five games for the Florida State defense a season ago. He was a finalist for the Bronco Nagurski Award for his play in the secondary, given to the nation’s top defensive player. With Derwin James back behind him, he could certainly have a higher ceiling to improve this spring.

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