Football is back, and this season is starting off with a bang. The Oklahoma State Cowboys will start the year facing off against the No. 1 ranked and defending national champion Florida State Seminoles.
Returning as the face of the offense is Heisman trophy winner Jameis Winston, who last season had a completion percentage of 66.9, completing 257 of 384 passes with only 10 interceptions. Winston earned 4057 total yards, scoring 40 touchdowns and averaging 298.8 yards per game.
His favorite target comes in the form of Rashad Greene, who caught 76 passes for 1128 yards. He earned an average of 14.8 yards per play and 80.6 yards per game. While only scoring nine touchdowns, Greene was a pivotal chain mover for the Seminoles.
Greene will be assisted by 6'3", 247lb tight end Nick O'Leary, who last season caught 33 passes for 557 yards. O'Leary scored seven touchdowns, and he averaged 16.9 yards per play and 39.8 yards per game. While these numbers may not seem explosive, O'Leary's role will likely increase with the departure of Kelvin Benjamin and Kenny Shaw.
The Seminoles aren't only dangerous through the air, but on the ground as well. Senior running back Karlos Williams is a force to be reckoned with, rushing for 748 yards on 91 attempts and scoring 11 touchdowns last year. He averaged eight yards per carry and 52.1 yards per game.
He'll be joined in carrying the ball by Winston, who at a less-than-a-moment's notice can become a dual threat QB. Famous Jameis rushed for a net yardage of 219, and averaged 15.6 yards per game.
All in all, Florida State is going to prove to be a tough test out of the gate for defensive coordinator Glenn Spencer and his young, inexperienced defense. It's a daunting task, but one that'll only benefit the Cowboys in the long haul. And should the Pokes pull the upset, it'll set the tone for what is sure to be an insane season of college football.