Cowboys Ride For Free - Cowboys Classic Story Stream: Oklahoma State vs Florida StateAn Oklahoma State Cowboys bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48613/cowboys-fave.png2014-08-29T18:00:03-05:00http://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/rss/stream/57209362014-08-29T18:00:03-05:002014-08-29T18:00:03-05:00Dez Bryant Wants YOU.
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<p>After selling out more than double what Jerry initially gave to OSU for it's students the University decided to release another video to continue and build the hype of the 2014 opener against FSU.</p> <p> </p>
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<p>"Oklahoma State Cowboys, we need you there. We need you at AT&T Stadium when we defeat the Seminoles."</p>
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<p>Now, how great would it be if OSU wins and the whole student body rushed the field at Cowboy Stadium to celebrate with the likes of these guys?</p>
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<p>Lets paint Arlington orange this Saturday!</p>
https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/29/6081289/dez-bryant-calls-out-all-his-fellow-pokes-oklahoma-state-football-dallas-cowboysGerald Tracy III2014-08-29T12:09:11-05:002014-08-29T12:09:11-05:00Q&A: Folks That Know What It's Like To Face FSU
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<p>I reached out to some of the other blogs who know the position Oklahoma State is in. After-all, they faced the same challenges a year ago.</p> <p> </p>
<p>The saying is the enemy of your enemy is your friend. I put that to the test as I reached out to a few of our fellow SB Nation bloggers that faced Florida State a season ago. What should the Cowboys prepare for? What, if any, success did you have against the Seminoles? Is <span>Jameis Winston</span> and FSU beatable? Those are the questions I asked, and I got back some rather interesting responses.</p>
<p>Before we get started I want to thank everyone for their help. I put this together with rather short notice, and these guys really came through. A big thanks to them!</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">*****</h4>
<h4><a href="http://www.cardiachill.com/" target="_blank">CARDIAC HILL - Pittsburgh Panthers</a></h4>
<p>Pitt kicked off their season last year in the same position as the Pokes this year; against Florida State. <a href="https://twitter.com/AnsonWhaley" target="_blank">Anson Whaley</a> gave some great insight on their game.</p>
<p><b>Last season the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cardiachill.com/">Panthers</a> were in the same situation. They opened up against FSU, and were the ‘Noles first victim on the season with a 41-13 loss. The Seminoles opened up the game in the second quarter, but was there ever a time early in the game where FSU look susceptible?</b></p>
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<p>I don't know if I'd call it Florida State looking susceptible as much as the Panthers just playing better early on. Pitt got off to a strong start and went down the field for a touchdown on their first possession. On the opening drive, they seemed to keep the Seminoles off balance a little mixing in both passes and runs, including an end around by wide receiver Tyler Boyd. The Panthers also put together another good scoring drive in the second quarter and, again, it was more of the same with a solid balance on offense. The running game contributed, <span>Tom Savage</span> completed several short-mid range passes, and Pitt mixed in another end around or reverse using Boyd that resulted in a big gain. Their third scoring drive was nearly identical to the others with yet another Boyd run - again, if I'm not mistaken, on an end around or reverse.</p>
<p>The X-factor in all of those drives was the utilization of a wideout as a running back on some modest trick plays. Boyd played running back in high school, so the staff really utilized his abilities with each of his runs picking up about 20 yards each. If the Cowboys have an athletic talent like that, I wouldn't be surprised to see them try the same thing if the coaches have watched film on that Pitt game.</p>
<p>When Pitt looked their best on offense, they were using a balanced offense and were aided by some innovative yards on the ground by Boyd.</p>
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<p><b>What did Florida State do that Pitt wasn't able to answer?</b></p>
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<p>Pitt's biggest problem all night was clearly in the secondary, but to be fair to those guys, there were a couple of other issues. For one, <span>Tom Savage</span> threw two interceptions in the first half which ended drives and resulted in two Florida State touchdowns on short fields. That game could have been a lot closer at the half. While they probably still lose, if they hang onto the ball there, the game might have looked a lot different. The other issue was the stale game plan on defense, which never evolved. Pitt started out with their cornerbacks a good 7-10 yards off of the receivers on many plays for fear of getting burned. While they may have prevented some big passing plays, Winston simply picked the defense apart.</p>
<p>I didn't have a problem with the strategy to start the game - it was probably the way to go, in fact. Pitt was clearly testing Winston since he was a freshman in his first game and hoping the defensive line could get enough pressure on him to make mistakes. But once that didn't happen, it made little sense for the corners to continue playing back so much. Winston's proven he'll make throws if he has time. If Oklahoma State is to be successful, they'll need to play more aggressively against the wide receivers than Pitt did. Florida State might run more than they did last year with a veteran offensive line, but to me, it's all about limiting the passing game since you know the Seminoles will utilize Winston as much as they can.</p>
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<p><b>What advice do you have for Cowboy fans as they await the game?</b></p>
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<p>It was a little different for Pitt last year and the loss was pretty deflating not only because it was in-conference, but because it was a blowout in their first ever ACC game. Advice for Cowboys fans? Don't jump ship if they don't win or even if the game's not all that close. It's a big test, but still one that's out of conference. And, man, it's not a home game, but playing in Texas has to be some sort of an advantage to the Cowboys - make some noise out there, Pokes</p>
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<h4><a href="http://www.bcinterruption.com/" target="_blank">BC INTERRUPTION - Boston College</a></h4>
<p>The Eagles nearly defeat the Seminoles last season.<a href="http://www.bcinterruption.com/boston-college-football-florida-state-2013/2013/9/28/4781188/florida-state-48-boston-college-34-game-recap" target="_blank"> If it wasn't for a giving up a Hail Mary at the close of the first half</a>, BC just may have escaped with a win. <a href="https://twitter.com/DanRubin12" target="_blank">Dan Ruben</a> does a great job of explaining how he thinks Oklahoma State should go about the game in order to do what they came so close to doing themselves.</p>
<p><b>Last season Boston College came close to upsetting the Seminoles, including hanging more points on them than anyone else. What did the Eagles do to find success offensively?</b></p>
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<p>BC managed to do a few things really well against Florida State that the Seminoles weren't ready for. For starters, they attacked. They came out with their offense, lined up, and pounded the ball right into the teeth of the defense. They gave the ball to <span>Andre Williams</span> and ran long, sustained drives with the intention of getting the guys tired. BC really protected the football. I think Andre had just under 150 yards.</p>
<p>The thing is that you can directly trace the FSU win back to a couple of different places. Tied at 17-17, Jameis Winston threw a hail mary touchdown as time expired before the half. Then they came out, held BC to a field goal, and scored a touchdown in response. At that point, it was too far behind. Had BC scored a touchdown there in the 3rd, things would've been or at least could've been difference.</p>
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<p><b>BC was able to get 5 stops on defense, is there anything the Cowboys can do to try and frustrate Jameis Winston?</b></p>
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<p>In terms of stopping FSU, you don't. You just hope to contain them. BC didn't necessarily go after Jameis Winston. They went after everyone else. With the exception of the Hail Mary, Winston didn't throw for 300 yards; BC went after his receivers and really took them out. Nobody had more than four catches. And for the most part BC let him run, but they didn't let him run wild. They really gave their defense the message of "bend, don't break." They didn't break, but FSU managed to still get their stats. Had BC had better talent on the field, they would've been right in there and possibly won the game.</p>
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<p><b>What advice do you have for Cowboy fans as they await the game?</b></p>
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<p>Here's the thing for OSU fans. Don't try to outrun FSU. Be patient. Let your team get its feet wet and hopefully not try to outscore the Noles. You cannot beat them in a foot race. Instead, let your team drone the clock down and not go for the home run ball. It's like watching a boxing match. You want your guy to go for the knockout punch, but you can win the fight if you dance around him and jab for 12 rounds. So let your team jab if that's what they decide to do.</p>
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<h4><a href="http://www.alligatorarmy.com/" target="_blank">ALLIGATOR ARMY - Florida Gators</a></h4>
<p>I reached out to <a href="https://twitter.com/AndyHutchins" target="_blank">Andy Hutchins</a> with Alligator Army, because nobody had more success slowing down the Heisman Trophy winner than the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.alligatorarmy.com/">Gators</a>, and I was curious to know what the Pokes may do to replicate that "success". Florida lost the game 37-7, so any success is relative.</p>
<p><b>Last season Florida held the ‘Noles to their second lowest point total all season at 37. Not bad considering the Gators didn’t get much help from the offense. How was Florida able to find success early on defense? What are some of the things Oklahoma State could look to do to try and frustrate Jameis Winston?</b></p>
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<p>In a word, pressure. Florida was able to press and manhandle FSU receivers early on, and Florida's emaciated defense still had enough pass rush to trouble Winston for the first half of that game. I don't know all that much about Oklahoma State's personnel, but if those guys can pressure Winston, he can be a bit erratic: He was, at least, at his most iffy in a very non-iffy Heisman campaign when his line let defenders shrink his pocket, rare though that was.</p>
<p>Oklahoma State could also hope that no FSU receiver presents the same physical mismatch that <span>Kelvin Benjamin</span> did on that day, but hope is a poor substitute for personnel.</p>
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<p><b>Do you foresee the Seminoles remaining undefeated for a second season? Are they beatable?</b></p>
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<p>With a gun to my head, I would bet against Florida State going undefeated again, merely because the 'Noles will have to play more games outside of what looks like an even weaker ACC than the one they torched in 2013 to finish unbeaten. I also think FSU might be in for a little regression on both sides of the ball, if only because pretty much everything went right for FSU in 2013.</p>
<p>But as for "beatable": Every college football team is. Some times are just more or less beatable than others. 2014 Florida State looks to me like the least beatable team in the nation, painful though that is to admit.</p>
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<p><b>What advice do you have for Cowboy fans as they await the game?</b></p>
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<p>Invest in earplugs. You're gonna hear that one damn chant a lot on Saturday, and you'll have to interact with the corporeal form of #FSUTwitter a lot on Friday before and Saturday after the game.</p>
<p>But, mostly, prepare for the possibility of a very, very good football team smithereening yours. This way, if and when (and, boy, I hope it's when) y'all win, the surprise will be its own reward.</p>
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<h4><a href="http://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/" target="_blank">COLLEGE AND MAGNOLIA - Auburn Tigers</a></h4>
<p>I wrapped up my inquiry with <a href="https://twitter.com/WarRoomEagle" target="_blank">WarRoomEagle</a> with College and Magnolia. Auburn gave the Seminoles every thing they could handle. There are some things Oklahoma State does similarly to Auburn on defense, and I was curious to know where the Cowboys might find success.</p>
<p>Due to the short notice WarRoomEagle didn't have time to watch the game footage again, instead relying on memory and statistics, but his answers are incredible nonetheless.</p>
<p><b>Florida State struggled against Auburn in the first half, and at one point the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/">Tigers</a> actually held a 21-3 lead in the game. How was Auburn able to find so much early success? How was the defense able to get pressure on Winston?</b></p>
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<p>Aside from apparently not being very creative with their offensive signals, FSU's offense was also simply surprised by the speed of Auburn's up front. Auburn had four sacks and five tackles for loss in that game. I believe the success came about because Auburn was (cliche-alert) very aggressive. The Tigers blitzed on 47% of all passing plays in the first half. And when Winston did get the ball out to his receivers, they didn't do him many favors as there were a few key drops early on. Unfortunately, Auburn backed off in the second half, blitzing only 32% of the time, and the FSU's receivers got into a rhythm, especially on short and quick passes.</p>
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<p><b>What were the Tigers doing on offense that allowed them to drive the ball down the field and score? Oklahoma State and coach Gundy really like to push the pace of play, do you foresee that being an issue for FSU?</b></p>
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<p>Rule number one for scoring on Florida State is: Get a short field to work with. Auburn's touchdown drives were 25, 85, 27, and 75 yards long. Rule number two for scoring on Florida State is: Hit a big play. The 85 yard TD drive ended with a 50 yard touchdown pass and the 75 yard TD drive ended with a 37 yard touchdown run.</p>
<p>Pace can be helpful against the Seminoles, too. They have (or had) a very athletic secondary and that allowed them to defend receivers closely while taking risks up front, so the Hurry-Up (<a href="http://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/2014/8/28/6072765/auburn-gus-malzahn-curious-quick-huddle-trick-plays" target="_blank">specifically the Quick Huddle</a>) led to some busted assignments. Perhaps the biggest way the Hurry-Up helped Auburn was by keeping FSU's nose tackle off the field. He made a mess up front most of the game, but he subbed out in one late drive, and when Auburn went Hurry-Up, they had some consistent success.</p>
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<p><b>What advice do you have for Cowboy fans as they await the game?</b></p>
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<p>Watch the <a href="http://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/2014/7/24/5932713/2013-auburn-vs-florida-state-football-national-championship-game-video" target="_blank">FSU Film Cut-Ups</a> I posted if you want. You can see every FSU offensive play in about 10 minutes and every FSU defensive play in about 14. Other than that, just look forward the game and look forward to next week when, win or lose, #FSUTwitter and Tomahawk Nation will finally leave you alone. Actually, looking at some comments on your site, it seems that FSU fans have been pretty level-headed about the whole thi... <a href="http://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/5/5954267/why-oklahoma-state-will-defeat-florida-state-Cowboys-Seminoles" target="_blank">Nevermind</a>.</p>
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<p>I want to thank Anson Whaley, Dan Ruben, Andy Hutchins, and WarRoomEagle one more time, they really came through!</p>
https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/29/6081799/folks-that-know-what-its-like-to-face-Florida-State-SeminolesChris Ross - CRFF2014-08-29T10:00:03-05:002014-08-29T10:00:03-05:00CRFF Staff Predicts Saturdays Game
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<p>The CRFF staff gets together to discuss what they think will happen in the first college game day of the year.</p> <p>Less than 48 hours many of you will be sitting in the museum of a stadium that Jerry built and the CRFF staff decided to get together and tell you what to expect Saturday Night.</p>
<p>Before we dive into this I want you to know what the average score predicted was, 39.5-25.9, with FSU winning all but three.The worst scores predicted were from Robert Whetsell and Annice Mcewan, each predicting 56 for FSU and at least 21 for OSU. This average score all together would put them above the O/U of 63.5 by about two points.</p>
<p>Steven Mandeville: 42 - 24 Florida State<br> Nick Lozanovski: 38 - 24 Florida State<br> Graham Coffelt: 31 - 21 Florida State<br> King: 34 - 24 Florida State<br> Schultzy: 45 - 21 Florida State<br> Chris Ross: 38 - 31 Oklahoma State<br> Evan Joes: 35 - 21 Florida State<br> Taylor York: 38 - 24 Florida State<br> Cade Webb: 35 - 24 Florida State<br> Derek Hatridge: 38 - 37 Oklahoma State<br> Robert Whetsell: 56 - 20 Florida State<br> Cory Treece: 37 - 31 Florida State<br> Gunter Sharp: 38 - 35 Oklahoma State<br> Dekota Gregory: 35 -27 Florida State<br> Josh Poteet: 38 - 27 Florida State<br> Colin Price: 38 - 28 Florida State<br> Annice Mcewan: 56 - 21 Florida State<br> Nick Tyler: 38 - 24 Bad Guys</p>
<p>Here are a few of my favorite detailed predictions from the staff:</p>
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<p>"Free Seafood U., 42-24 We keep the streak of 20+ but Jameis won't be denied. We see the first glimpse of Daxx The Destroyer (Guardians of the Galaxy anyone?) in the second half and controversy brews." - <b>Steven Mandeville</b></p>
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<p>"Florida State 31-21. Fans are going to be pleasantly surprised at the way the Cowboys compete against the defending national champions. This game could very well switch to an OSU win if the Cowboys play a perfect game, would be very tough though." - <b>Graham Coffelt</b></p>
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<p>Although most of the staff seemed pretty sure OSU will lose, there are the three that believe they will pull off the win. With the right execution this talent can beat them, however the inexperience should show and FSU wins a close one.</p>
<p>Now for a more positive outlook, Chris Ross gave a pretty in-depth prediction and it is perfect.</p>
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<p style="mso-pagination: none; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;" class="MsoNormal">The Cowboys jump out to an early lead behind some special teams play, and a little misdirection on offense. As soon as Daxx comes onto the field look for hand off to Roland up the middle, but wait... Desmond flips the ball back to Garman... Tyreek Hill is streaking down the field!...</p>
<p style="mso-pagination: none; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;" class="MsoNormal">...Let's just hope "the Freek" doesn't outrun this mythical arm we've been promised.</p>
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<p>Chris elaborated a little more on his pick during a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.tomahawknation.com/2014/8/28/6077929/opponent-blogger-q-a-cowboys-ride-for-free">Q&A session with Tomahawk Nation</a>.</p>
<p>I personally think that OSU keeps the game close, but the inexperience rears it's ugly head near the end of the third quarter. FSU is a far more talented and experienced team but hopefully we see some Gundy magic. If OSU loses in the last few minutes, however, we always have Squinky to blame.</p>
https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/29/6069345/crff-staff-predictions-week-1-oklahoma-state-florida-stateGerald Tracy III2014-08-29T08:00:03-05:002014-08-29T08:00:03-05:00#CRFFBoldPredictions: FSU vs OSU
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<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>#CRFFBoldPredictions are back! With a mountain of a game to start off the Cowboys 2014 campaign, the predictions did not disappoint!</p> <p>It's a new year, new season, and a lot of new faces. The Cowboys are prepping for a huge week 1 opener against the defending national champion <a href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Florida State Seminoles</a>, led by returning Heisman Trophy winner <span>Jameis Winston</span>. I asked you guys to bring your "A" game with our first week of #CRFFBoldPredictions, and you have delivered! <br><br>I've got to say... The Tyreek HIll predictions came out in full force!</p>
<p>I hear he has a helluva arm! Would be awesome to see!</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPredictions?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPredictions</a> Tyreek throws a pass back to Walsh for a touchdown.</p>
— Troy Wilborn (@troy_wilborn) <a href="https://twitter.com/troy_wilborn/statuses/505190372553670656">August 29, 2014</a>
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<p>I hope half is more than 14!</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPredictions?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPredictions</a> <span>Tyreek Hill</span> accounts for more than half of OSU's points Saturday.</p>
— Josh Poteet (@PotweetSays) <a href="https://twitter.com/PotweetSays/statuses/504621037523185664">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>I'd be ok with this being the first play of the game...</p>
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<p>Tyreek Hill will return the first kickoff he receives <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPredictions?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPredictions</a></p>
— Dekota Gregory (@dekotagregory) <a href="https://twitter.com/dekotagregory/statuses/504461860876189697">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>Please.</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPrediction?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPrediction</a> Tyreek Hill announces his Heisman candidacy with three 50+ yd scores, one a KO return.</p>
— Robert Whetsell (@RobertW_CRFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/RobertW_CRFF/statuses/504650240671350785">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>The flea-flicker... An OSU staple... Right behind the quick screen!</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPrediction?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPrediction</a> Tyreek "The Freak"'s first TD is a flip.</p>
— Phillip Blochowiak (@PCPokefan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PCPokefan/statuses/504489479550164993">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>This is certainly bold... I would say nearly impossible... But hey. Bold.</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPredictions?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPredictions</a> <span>J.W. Walsh</span> throws 4tds and 0 ints!</p>
— Nick Lozanovski (@nick_lozanovski) <a href="https://twitter.com/nick_lozanovski/statuses/505093344859787265">August 28, 2014</a>
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<p>Oh... It is.</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPredictions?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPredictions</a> Okstate wins. Is that not bold enough?</p>
— Gerald Tracy III (@GeraldTracyCRFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeraldTracyCRFF/statuses/504479760169197568">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>Another call for a flea-flicker!</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFboldpredictions?src=hash">#CRFFboldpredictions</a> Pokes first play is a flea flicker for 80 yard TD. Then Crab Boy throws INT for TD. Rout is on!!!</p>
— Chris Tucker (@ctuck2121) <a href="https://twitter.com/ctuck2121/statuses/504475457040175105">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>Flag on the play.</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPrediction?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPrediction</a> <span>Daxx Garman</span> will start vs FSU... <span>Daxx Garman</span> won't see the field vs FSU... That's how you do that.</p>
— CRFF (@CowboysRFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/CowboysRFF/statuses/504618573101531136">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>If this happens, the season could end for me.</p>
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<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/crffboldprediction?src=hash">#crffboldprediction</a> Daxx throws two long bomb TDs. Gets double high-five from Weeden.</p>
— Sugar Skull Pete (@Sugar_Skull_PP) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sugar_Skull_PP/statuses/504466799165857793">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>Seems like a real possibility with Gundy's track record...</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBOLDPREDICTION?src=hash">#CRFFBOLDPREDICTION</a> JW Walsh pulls a <span>Clint Chelf</span> and gets yanked in the first quarter. Daxx Garman saves the day.</p>
— Cade Webb (@CWebb_CRFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/CWebb_CRFF/statuses/504458861504241664">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p>I said BOLD predictions...</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Coach Gundy will spend more time on his hair than Jimbo Fisher <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPrediction?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPrediction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OKState?src=hash">#OKState</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FSU?src=hash">#FSU</a></p>
— Chris Ross (@ChrisRossCRFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisRossCRFF/statuses/504455597581168640">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p> </p>
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<p>Ok... So we all really hope Tyreek is the real deal...</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPrediction?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPrediction</a> OSU loses the toss gets the ball first and Tyrek Hill takes it to the house On kick return <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/okstate?src=hash">#okstate</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CowboysRFF">@CowboysRFF</a></p>
— Pistols Firing (@RyanHarrell2) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanHarrell2/statuses/504454347649216513">August 27, 2014</a>
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<p> </p>
<p><span>
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<p>OSU great <span>Caleb Lavey</span> chiming in with a bold prediction!</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/dekotagregory">@dekotagregory</a>: <a href="https://twitter.com/ShishhCabob">@ShishhCabob</a> do you have a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPrediction?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPrediction</a> for Saturday's game in Arlington?" An upset!</p>
— Caleb Lavey (@ShishhCabob) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShishhCabob/statuses/505137417217507328">August 28, 2014</a>
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<p> </p>
<p><span>
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<p>Real possibility.</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p>"<a href="https://twitter.com/CWebb_CRFF">@CWebb_CRFF</a>: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPrediction?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPrediction</a> Daxx Garman takes more snaps than J.W. Walsh." WE WANT DAXX</p>
— Keyser Söze (@AlexPrattt) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexPrattt/statuses/505134662373896193">August 28, 2014</a>
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<p> </p>
<p><span>
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<p>Tomahawk Nation with their #CRFFBoldPrediction from behind enemy lines!</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisRossCRFF">@ChrisRossCRFF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRFFBoldPrediction?src=hash">#CRFFBoldPrediction</a> Florida State scores a defensive TD. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Homer?src=hash">#Homer</a></p>
— Dylan Kidd (@dylankidd) <a href="https://twitter.com/dylankidd/statuses/505101845254389761">August 28, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><span>
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<p>And to wrap up our Week 1 #CRFFBoldPredictions, ESPN Analyst Jay Bilas!</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<blockquote lang="en" data-conversation="none" class="twitter-tweet">
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisRossCRFF">@ChrisRossCRFF</a> Cowboys are really good, but I like Florida State to win, cover. Seminoles have 13 starters back, covered 11 of 13 last year.</p>
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayBilas/statuses/505090670940663809">August 28, 2014</a>
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<p>That is a wrap for our first week of #CRFFBoldPredictions! Thanks for all your tweets! Lets get pumped up for an exciting match-up on Saturday, and be sure to send your #CRFFWhatWeLearned after the game!<br><br>Have more? Let us know in the comments section or tweet at us with the #CRFFBoldPredictions tag!<br><br>GO POKES!</p>
https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/29/6081805/crffboldpredictions-florida-state-vs-oklahoma-stateEvan G. Jones2014-08-28T21:00:03-05:002014-08-28T21:00:03-05:00OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL: 2014 National Champions!
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<figcaption>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Let's do this today, because tomorrow reality comes calling.</p> <p>My brother has said to me many more times than I can recall...</p>
<blockquote>"We will never be as good as we are the day before we play our first game."</blockquote>
<p>I suppose this can apply to any team, any sport, but man, is it ever so true for Oklahoma State.</p>
<p>As of right now:</p>
<ul>
<li><span><span>Tyreek Hill</span> might be Flash Gordon in disguise;</span></li>
<li><span><span>Daxx Garman</span> may be the second coming of <span>Brandon Weeden</span>;</span></li>
<li><span>Every wide receiver on OSU's roster is ready to start in the NFL;</span></li>
<li><span>Opponents won't be able to get past our defensive line;</span></li>
<li><span><span>Kevin Peterson</span> might be a better CB than <span>Justin Gilbert</span> (ok, this one might be true);</span></li>
</ul>
<div>Florida State comes in as a heavy favorite, and I guarantee by game time there will be a decent sized contingent of OSU fans that will be convinced that the Cowboys should win the game (I'm trying very hard not to be in that group...it's not easy).</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>It happens every season.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Coaches talk about who is showing up in practice, individual players chat about each other, and the media theorize about what it all means.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>We want to be excited, and given Mike Gundy's success in building a program that is starting to reload more than rebuild, it's pretty easy to get swept up in preseason optimism.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Imagine being a fan of Jayhawks football...</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>So for those of us who are expecting a victory on 8/30, just keep in mind that if/when reality comes calling, don't go off the deep end. The Seminoles are the defending national champions with the reigning Heisman Trophy winner at QB, not to mention lots of returning players. The Big 12 is not a raging gauntlet of giants. No matter what happens, there are at least 11 more games to be played, and it's a fact that OSU won't play another opponent in the regular season even remotely close to what they will face at AT&T Stadium.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>The other side of this mess is that we are a bit in the wilderness as fans of a nationally prominent football program. While Gundy and the Cowboys haven't experienced a losing season since 2005, I'm pretty confident most fans remember the 90's.</div>
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<div>Gundy has done a fantastic job, but is OSU generally immune to losing seasons now? Is a down year 7-5 or 8-4, worst case scenario? I can tell you right now I've entertained the idea of 5-7 this season, as did Nick Tyler.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>So, as we wind ourselves up for the big opener, let's also purchase that soft pillow called reality to land on if necessary.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Or maybe, just maybe, Tyreek Hill will catch Rashaun Woods, who is still open...</div>
<div><br></div>
<div><b><i>GO POKES!!!</i></b></div>
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<div><br></div>
https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/28/6044515/oklahoma-state-football-2014-national-championsRobert Whetsell2014-08-28T17:35:31-05:002014-08-28T17:35:31-05:00Prediction Time! Oklahoma State vs. Florida State
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<figcaption>Go Pokes! | Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Give your predictions for the first game of the season!
</p> <p>Welcome to a brand new season of college football!</p>
<p>My name is Schultzy, and I'll be doing these Prediction Time posts before every game. The rules are very simple; I throw down the gauntlet, and you do your best to answer my questions. After each week, I'll go back, review your results, and choose a winner, who will be highlighted in the next Prediction Time. Pretty simple, right?</p>
<p>Let's get it on!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>1. Final score?</p>
<p>2. Does any QB besides JW get snaps? If yes, who and how many?</p>
<p>3. Freshman with the biggest impact? Give me some stats</p>
<p>4. Offensive MVP and Defensive MVP?</p>
<p>5. Will OSU score more than 20 points?</p>
<p>6. The best <span>Jameis Winston</span> joke we will see?</p>
<p>7. What uniform combination will we see?</p>
<p>8. Number of missed <span>Ben Grogan</span> field goals?</p>
<p>9. Number of possessions the OSU defense gets a stop?</p>
<p>10. Total number of yards by FSU and OSU?</p>
https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/28/6079213/prediction-time-oklahoma-state-vs-florida-state-ncaaf-cfbSchultzy2014-08-28T13:59:45-05:002014-08-28T13:59:45-05:00Oklahoma State vs Florida State: The Infograph
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<figcaption>Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>It doesn't seem possible for clocks to move this slow. As the minute and hour hands creep towards kickoff slower than a D-lineman that's recovered a fumble and is heading to the endzone, we take a look at the match-up with an interactive infograph.</p> <p>The good news, Oklahoma State football is just two days away. The bad news, (other than it's facing the best team in the nation), time may have stopped. The closer we get to game the longer it takes for each hour to pass.</p>
<p>It's funny though. As we all count down each tick, every tock, anxiously awaiting the game in Arlington, we miss the best part of the year. Right now, this very moment, this is what we should cherish. All the hopes for the Cowboys season, all the dreams of new OSU stars being born, all of the fantasy is still alive.</p>
<p>Alas, we are a society of instant gratification though, so instead we sit with bloodshot eyes fixated on the clock. Knowledge may be power, but ignorance is bliss. A bliss that good or bad, we only get to hold on to for a couple more days.</p>
<p>This is your first warning, if you want to hold onto that hope, look away now.</p>
<p>As we begrudgingly wait for a truth we might not like, the StatMilk infographs have returned, but there's a small catch. There's nothing to go off of yet, so all we can do is look at how Oklahoma State and Florida State compared last year. If car crashes, train wrecks, and gore in general makes you a little squeamish, well... this is your second warning to look away.</p>
<p>The charts confirm what we already know, Florida State is basically a NFL team. The Seminoles return a lot of talent from the National Championship squad, while the pokes lost more experience than anyone in the country. The error of margin for the Pokes is thinner than Jimbo Fisher's hair, but I'm still holding out hope of the upset. No matter how disturbing the numbers are.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe scrolling="no" frameborder="0" height="3080" style="width: 700px; height: 3080px; border: none;" width="700" src="http://demo-whiteboard.statmilk.com/NCAAF/TeamMatchup/65380632/4875"></iframe></p>
https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/28/6077291/oklahoma-state-vs-florida-state-the-infographChris Ross - CRFF2014-08-28T11:54:02-05:002014-08-28T11:54:02-05:00Questions For The Enemy: Florida State
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<figcaption>Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The showdown in Arlington, TX is just two days away! As the Cowboys prepare to take on the best team in the country, CRFF had some questions for SB Nation's Florida State blog, Tomahawk Nation.</p> <p>I spent some time talking with <a href="https://twitter.com/dylankidd" target="_blank">Dylan Kidd</a> from <a href="http://www.tomahawknation.com/" target="new">Tomahawk Nation</a> this week, and let me just say, wow! This guy knows his stuff. TN has been doing an excellent job of breaking down the game all week, if you haven't made it over there, I highly encourage you to do so.</p>
<p>Dylan does a fantastic job of talking about the 'Noles success under Jimbo Fisher, what to expect from FSU this season, and of course, talks about the game!</p>
<p><b>All the attention is on <span>Jameis Winston</span> as the returning Heisman Winner and the large amount of NFL ready talent on the roster, but are there any players we might not be aware of that your are looking forward to see play?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>TOMAHAWK NATION:</b> The driving force behind Jimbo Fisher’s success at Florida State is the amount of talent he has stockpiled through recruiting. While FSU returns a significant amount of contributors from its 2013 National Title team, it did see departures, which creates opportunities for newcomers to step up this season. The most important of these on offense were two of the ‘Noles’ top three wide receivers, <span>Kelvin Benjamin</span> and <span>Kenny Shaw</span>. I’m excited to see who will fill these roles. True freshmen Travis Rudolph and Ermon Lane are excellent players who will see time on Saturday evening, and senior <span>Christian Green</span> will have an opportunity to play significant snaps for FSU in 2014. Kermit Whitfield, who returned the kickoff for TD against Auburn in Pasadena, will see an increased role on offense, and it’s hard not to be excited about him. I’m also looking forward to seeing <span>Karlos Williams</span> at running back in his first full season at the position, as he converted from safety after the first game of last season. His backups, <span>Mario Pender</span> and Dalvin Cook, are also exciting players.</p>
<p>On defense, FSU lost its monster in the middle in Timmy Jernigan. Nile Lawrence-Stample will have to play well at nose tackle this season and is coming off of a shoulder injury. <span>Telvin Smith</span> is gone from the linebacking corps, and I’m excited to see which player will step into his shoes. The ‘Noles lost safety Terrance Brooks and "star" (nickel corner) position player <span>Lamarcus Joyner</span>, and sophomore <span>Jalen Ramsey</span> will step into this role after a fantastic freshman campaign. I’m interested to see how <span>Nate Andrews</span> and <span>Tyler Hunter</span> play on the back end for FSU, as the safeties are a crucial if a bit unknown commodity on this year’s defense. It’s worth noting that while <span>Charles Kelly</span> is in his first year as FSU’s defensive coordinator, he was the linebacker’s coach last season, and Florida State has stressed that the defense has not changed from the one Jeremy Pruitt commanded a year ago.</p>
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<p><b>One of the most anticipated players for the Cowboys is Tyreek "The Freek" Hill. His speed is unprecedented, and there’s a lot of hype around the stress he can put on a defense. Florida State recruited Hill as well, were you surprised at all when he chose Oklahoma State?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>TOMAHAWK NATION:</b> I was not as familiar with Hill’s recruitment as our Editor-In-Chief and SB Nation’s Recruiting Director Bud Elliott, so I farmed this one out to him.</p>
<p>Bud: "Not entirely. Oklahoma State offered a lot more playing time than FSU and their offense is more spread oriented. I think Hill made a good decision."</p>
<p>I’ll certainly have an eye on Hill on Saturday evening. He’s got dynamic speed that forces defenses to account for him on every snap, and presents a real threat as a part of OK State’s inside-zone based schemes as a shot play target to the edge.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>The ‘Noles hold the series edge at 3-1, but even though the history between Florida State and Oklahoma State is short, it’s fascinating. Florida State’s first nationally televised game was against OSU in the first, and only, Bluegrass Bowl in 1958. The two teams didn’t play again until twenty years later, when Osceola and Renegade made their mascot debut. Is this the type of series FSU fans want to see more of, or would they prefer a clearer path into conference play?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>TOMAHAWK NATION:</b> I think the answer to that depends on what really happens with our new college football playoff system. One thing we at TN have talked about a bunch over the off-season is how to maximize the chances of a national championship under the new rules. Will the committee really value strength of schedule? Will it look to select champions of different leagues? Will it select the teams it believes to be the best four teams? The most deserving?</p>
<p>If we come to find out that the diverse selection committee favors choosing four teams from different conferences, for example, I think it will mean that toning down the out-of-conference schedule is the best way to maximize the chances of making the playoff. If it really values strength of schedule, then yes, this type of match up to kick off the season becomes highly desirable. But, the conclusion that most on our staff have reached is that we expect the committee to act like poll voters, who have shown us time and again that the total number of wins is what they value, and strength of schedule is far down the list of important factors. This is maddening, as advanced statistics that account for strength of schedule are much better indicators of the quality of teams. Until the committee shows us that it truly values strength of schedule, though, it doesn’t make much sense for top programs to jack up their out-of-conference schedules at the expense of valuable wins, in my view.</p>
<p>That’s the analytical side of me speaking. As a fan, I love this match up. It’s really nice to be preparing for a week one showdown with an excellent program like Oklahoma State at a great neutral site venue. It adds to the excitement of this fantastic sport, and it allows us to interact with a fan base that we otherwise wouldn’t. It’s really an unfortunate balance between this selfish enjoyment and what’s best for the program, at least with respect to my current view of the post-season system.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>The job Coach Fisher has done at FSU is incredible. Bobby Bowden struggled to stay above .500 his last five years in Tallahassee, going 8-5, 7-6, 7-6, 9-4, and 7-6. In Jimbo Fisher’s first four years he’s gone 10-4, 9-4, 12-2, and 14-0 with a National Championship. How was he able to turn the program around so quickly?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>TOMAHAWK NATION:</b> Florida State has advantages in resources that most programs in the country simply do not. Most importantly, it is located in an extremely fertile recruiting area, able to dip into South Florida and conveniently located near Central Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. It has a history of success, excellent facilities, a winnable conference, warm weather, beautiful women, a dedicated fanbase, etc. – everything needed to thrive in modern college football, even in spite of a comparative disadvantage in terms of funding relative to surrounding SEC schools. This is what made the downfall of the program during the 2000’s so awful. Florida State operating anywhere near peak capacity is a top-15 team year in and year out at worst. The program was far, far from its peak when Bowden retired in 2009.</p>
<p>When Fisher took over after Bowden’s ouster, the Florida State program lagged behind the best in the country in terms of modernity. Jimbo immediately set out to upgrade FSU’s facilities (namely the indoor practice facility), increase support staff, implement top-level nutrition and strength and conditioning programs, and change the way FSU managed its roster. His "Process" approach, learned from Nick Saban, was the model for Fisher’s program in Tallahassee. This, combined with FSU’s advantages in resources, led to a very quick turnaround. This is Florida State at peak capacity.</p>
<p>Then there’s the quarterback. The depth is better, but the starting talent right now is comparable to what it was in 2012, which featured a team nowhere near as good as the one on the field last season. There are other contributing factors, but the primary difference is Jameis Winston. He’s just a transcendent player who understands what FSU is trying to do on offense and makes the guys around him better. The players believe in him and the team believes in itself. A special player at quarterback can elevate a team to elite status for a few years, but Jimbo’s modern program has assured that the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/">Seminoles</a> can play at a very high level even after his departure.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Last year Jameis Winston and company accomplished just about everything there is to accomplish in college football. How concerned are you about complacency setting in with this team? Everybody gets off the bus ready to play, but what about the drive during the off-season, and practice? Will the hunger still be there?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>TOMAHAWK NATION:</b> This is something we worry about, but with the team as a whole rather than Winston himself. Jameis is a very hard worker who was diagramming offensive plays against cover-3 looks in fourth grade. He’s a student of the game (gotta throw in a cliché here and there), and Fisher routinely comments on Winston understanding what he wants to do on offense and constantly wanting to digest more and more. He’s lost bad weight he gained on the awards ceremony tour last season, and is a natural leader of the offense. Kermit Whitfield was talking this week about how the receivers were running the same routes at all hours of the day this summer so as not to let Jameis down.</p>
<p>However, the ‘Noles lost two immensely important and vocal leaders to the draft last spring. Telvin Smith and Lamarcus Joyner were the guys getting teammates out of bed, spurring them to do the extra work, and ensuring that practices were at the highest level last season. Just who exactly will step into these shoes in 2014 was and remains a point of concern for us. Jalen Ramsey is a heck of a player, but is he the type of vocal leader the defensive group needs to reach the spectacular heights that it did in 2013? Time will tell. The team’s approach in throttling the opposition week in and week out last season and improving every single game was instrumental to its success in 2013. ‘Noles fans hope it isn’t found lacking this year.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Oklahoma State and Mike Gundy are big fans of the hurry-up no-huddle offense. What are some of the things Florida State will do on defense to handle the quick tempo? Are there concerns about missed assignments or defensive mismatches against a player like <span>Tyreek Hill</span> since he could line up at receiver or running back without making a substitution?</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>TOMAHAWK NATION:</b> The HUNH offenses always present concerns about alignments, busts, fatigue, etc. Defending these attacks is about preparation, discipline, and execution. Fortunately for FSU, the Seminoles saw several such offenses last season and fared very well compared to other defenses they faced. Chad Morris at Clemson tries to run 85-90 plays per game, and featured Boyd, Watkins, and several other excellent players on offense a year ago. Auburn had a similar approach in terms of HUNH, and certainly had its fair share of talent. Florida State, which finished 1st in the nation in Defensive F/+ a year ago, held both offenses to their lowest yards per play outputs of the season. The ‘Noles have been able to get lined up and execute their assignments against such systems, and I have no reason to think they won’t continue to be successful in 2014. Additionally, the Seminoles had the entire off-season to prepare for OSU’s HUNH attack, which does cut both ways, but I’d argue more preparation time is more beneficial for defenses than offenses. Now, even with a month to prepare, we saw several busts in coverage leading to big plays for Auburn in Pasadena. That’s sort of the nature of the beast with these types of offenses. They’re predicated on confusion and mismatches. So, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Hill or other Cowboys break a long play here and there. I will say, though, that FSU’s defensive personnel is best suited to defend spread attacks. The secondary is talented and physical, able to make plays in space and take away the free yards such offenses are usually afforded by pressing and playing aggressively in the defensive backfield. The linebackers are fast and able to play in space, and FSU can disguise looks and blitz from just about anywhere. So, while I do expect OSU to break a few plays, I’m optimistic about Florida State’s defensive performance on Saturday.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Oklahoma State is a 17-point underdog to Florida State, but it's the closest point spread on the Seminole's schedule. How much trouble do you foresee the Pokes giving FSU, and are they the 'Noles biggest threat to a second undefeated season?</b></p>
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<p><b>TOMAHAWK NATION:</b> I actually did not realize that. I have a lot of respect for Mike Gundy and Oklahoma State’s program. It has been one of the best in the country in terms of consistent quality for a while now, and I think the Pokes will have another good team this season, particularly towards the end of the year. I do think this is a tough matchup for this OSU team, though. The HUNH feature of the offense is unlikely to have much of an effect on FSU. It’s an inside-zone based attack (at least on Walsh’s film), but is breaking in a new OL coach and three new starters on that unit against a very talented defensive line, and what’s likely the best secondary in the nation, a unit that plays well in run support and will take away free yards on the outside with tight coverage. The defense is facing an excellent FSU offensive line and backfield after losing two stud inside linebackers. If it can’t stop the run with its front seven, it will have to ask a whole heck of a lot of its defensive backfield, which lost its top five (!) contributors from the position group from last year. Namely, single coverage against FSU’s receivers and the returning Heisman winner. This is not a great scenario for the Pokes. I think this game would certainly be closer if it were played in a couple of months, but it’s really a tough break for Oklahoma State to be playing it on August 30.</p>
<p>The other games that give me the most pause on FSU’s schedule are Florida, Louisville, Notre Dame, and Miami, in no particular order. I think that any one of those teams could upset Florida State, and I think Oklahoma State could too. I’d probably put the Pokes at #3 on my worry list, right in the middle of the group. We as FSU fans know all too well that a large point spread doesn’t guarantee a victory, but Jimbo’s teams have been much better at converting these to wins than most will acknowledge, pointing to the outliers (cough NC State cough). I think FSU has a better shot than anyone in the nation to run the table in the regular season, but the odds say that expecting any team to do so is a risky proposition.</p>
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<p><b>Finally, what’s your score prediction and outlook for the game?</b></p>
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<p><b>TOMAHAWK NATION:</b> I discussed this in general terms above, but I like this matchup as a ‘Noles fan. I think FSU’s strength on offense this year will be running the ball, with 4 of 5 starters returning on a big, nasty offensive line and a backfield loaded with talent. I believe FSU will run downhill at Oklahoma State and force the Pokes to commit more defenders to the box to stop the run, opening up advantageous matchups in the passing game for Jameis Winston, <span>Rashad Greene</span>, Nick O’Leary, and others, against a depleted OSU secondary. I expect the Cowboys’ offense to have measured success against the Seminoles at times, but one thing I have to note: getting behind against FSU’s defense tends to snowball. This is a defense that will play mostly nickel (4-2-5) and is very aggressive. Going down 14 early and having to go pass-heavy could be disastrous for the Pokes, as it turns loose FSU’s blitzers from all over the place and will probably cause even more turnovers against this secondary. I’m really interested to see if the Cowboys will stick with the Walsh gameplan of a diamond formation-heavy, inside-zone based attack with jets, fades, and posts on the outside, and attempting to control the ball and keep the FSU offense off of the field, or if it will attempt to do what it did against Mississippi State in that opener last season. By that I mean, will Oklahoma State try to attack Florida State with something it hasn’t put on film? The Bulldogs were not prepared for the Walsh ground attack last season, and I have in mind a more aerial approach with <span>Daxx Garman</span>. I’m excited to see. Either way, I think the Seminoles notch a 38-20 win in the opener. Looking forward to it, and may I say, I love y’all’s fight song.</p>
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<p>Dylan Kidd, and Tomahawk Nation have been great all week. A big thanks to them, and to all the Florida State fans that have made it over here the last month or so. More fan bases should be as knowledgeable and respectful as the 'Noles.</p>
https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/2014/8/28/6075841/questions-for-the-enemy-florida-state-seminoles-oklahoma-state-cowboysChris Ross - CRFF