2010 Florida State Seminoles: Florida State vs Samford

Over 68,000 fans filled Doak Campbell Stadium for Coach Fisher's head coaching debut against Samford University on Saturday. While many in college football looked back at the Seminoles under former coach Bobby Bowden, Jimbo Fisher's team showed them why the Noles have a bright future ahead.

The Noles started slowly early in the game, allowing Samford's Dustin Taliaferro (QB) an eight-yard rush for a first down on the Bulldogs' first drive before forcing a punt. On the Noles' first drive of the year, quarterback Christian Ponder looked true to his pre-injury form as he completed passes of 15 and 21 yards. As the Noles closed in on the goal line, Ponder threw an almost-sure touchdown pass that was tipped at the line and intercepted by Samford's Bryce Smith, ending the drive and worrying some FSU fans.

How would the defense react to such a disappointment? The young defense proved its improvements by forcing a Samford three-and-out on the Bulldogs' next drive, including a six-yard tackle for loss by sophomore defensive tackle Jacobbi McDaniel.

The next six possessions for the Noles before halftime ended in scores, including touchdowns by Lonnie Pryor (2), Bert Reed, Jermaine Thomas, Greg Reid (72-yard punt return), and Taiwan Easterling. In fact, Florida State scored on all but three possessions in the game (when Ponder and backup quarterback E.J. Manuel threw interceptions, plus the last possession of the game). At the half, the Noles held a commanding 42–3 lead, the first time they had scored 42 in a half since 2000 (Duke).

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The second half showcased the Noles' second unit, led by Gator Bowl MVP E.J. Manuel. Even with the team's second- (and some third-) string players on the field, Florida State managed to keep the Bulldogs out of the end zone, limiting them to two field goals while scoring two touchdowns and a field goal. As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read 59–6 in the Seminoles' favor.

Overall, the game was a chance for college football to glimpse the new Seminole team. Players ran faster, executed defensive coverage’s better, and showed an attitude of determination that wasn't present last season. While the competition certainly wasn't the toughest the Noles will face this season, progress could be seen in the team's performance on Saturday. In the end, Seminole fans have much to be happy about after the team's first game. The true test of Jimbo's boys will come next weekend in Norman, Oklahoma. The Sooners will find out if this game marked the return of a college football powerhouse.

Stats from the game:

Florida State Seminoles
Christian Ponder: 12/14, 167 yards, 4 TDs, INT
EJ Manuel: 10/13, 129 yards
Ty Jones: 8 rushes, 107 yards, 1 TD
Lonnie Pryor: 2 rec, 23 yards, 2 TDs

Samford Bulldogs
Dustin Taliaferro: 22/32, 174 yards, INT
Chris Evans: 12 rushes, 39 yards
Quin Roberson: 11 rec, 96 yards

Florida State Seminoles vs Samford Bulldogs Football Recap