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15 biggest college football storylines to watch in 2017

By Jerran Anderson

Dec 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson poses with the trophy during a press conference at the New York Marriott Marquis after winning the 2016 Heisman Trophy award during a presentation at the Playstation Theater. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson poses with the trophy during a press conference at the New York Marriott Marquis after winning the 2016 Heisman Trophy award during a presentation at the Playstation Theater. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 8, 2017; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Derwin James (3) warms up before the start of the Spring Game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2017; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Derwin James (3) warms up before the start of the Spring Game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports /

8. How good will the Florida State Seminoles be in 2017?

Another team to be on alert for in the ACC is the Florida State Seminoles. Quarterback Deondre Francois had a good season as a first-year starter. Now, he’ll look to build on that in 2017.

Florida State was 10-3 overall, but 5-3 in the ACC. They return seven starters on offense, nine on defense. Those odds should make for a much more competitive squad in 2017. Developing the passing attack a lot more should help improve things as well.

Also returning is safety Derwin James, who looked more explosive than ever in the Seminoles spring game. James missed much of the 2016 season due to a left torn meniscus. As the defense’ top playmaker, James will look to lead the way back to the ACC Championship game this season.

Replacing running back Dalvin Cook could prove to be a tough task. Running back Jacques Patrick is the top returning rusher (350 rushing yards, four touchdowns), but he’ll have some competition. True freshman Cam Akers made some noise this spring and should push for early playing time, particularly on special teams.

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