College Football: Grading each top 10 team’s Week 1 performance

No. 3 Florida State lost to Alabama 24-7

Offense: D
Defense: B+
Overall: C+

Florida State left me so conflicted. I couldn’t have been more impressed with the way Florida State’s defense. Both FSU’s offense and special teams were underwhelming. I know the Seminoles were playing Alabama, but they fell into the same trap every good team that loses to Alabama does. They got tight, conservative and sabotaged themselves with unforced errors.

Offensively I cannot say enough about the toughness of Deondre Francois. He was tough as nails and I hope he makes a speedy recovery. The FSU wide receivers made plays when they were given the opportunity. I would have loved to see the Seminoles take shots against the Crimson Tide defensive backs more when they got one-on-one coverage.

Defensively, the Seminoles were stingy. They only allowed 96 passing yards, With the exception of two runs, the Seminoles run game was largely held in check.

Overall, this game will end up as a fail for two reasons. One, Florida State lost and two, Florida State lost Deondre Francois for the year.