A limited-in-time drop off is expected with a team as successful as FSU. FSU has had more players drafted in the NFL Draft in a 3 year span in history (29). We aren't talking about NFL backups either. They lost a Heisman-winning QB with a 26-1 record. A QB whose current QB rating is higher than former number 1 overall picks Andrew Luck, Cam Newton, Peyton Manning, Matthew Stafford, and Sam Bradford. A running back that leads the NFL by far in both yards and touchdowns. Another running back 11th in touchdowns. A linebacker 2nd in the NFL in total tackles. A cornerback that leads in pass deflections. Offensive lineman, who as a starting rookie, already has a Super Bowl ring. These rookies or 2nd year players are at or near the top of most meaningful NFL statistics.


Now for the future: 2 of the top 4 Pro Football Focuses top freshman based on current performances are FSU freshman James and Sweat. Also on defense are numerous other underclassmen as starters. On offense, all but 1 offensive lineman are underclassmen (half being freshman). Both TEs are freshman. 3/4ths of the WR crew they rotate in are underclassmen. Dalvin Cook, arguably the best RB in college football, will be back. Complimented by then 2nd year RB Patrick.


The fact remains: No other team in college football develops talent on par with FSU. The majority of starters are underclassmen who coming out of high school were either the best player in the country or top 5 at their position. A lot of similarities between this team and the 2012 team. All but 1 offensive linemen underclassmen, TEs underclassmen, underclassmen rbs, QB heading out. What followed were 2 undefeated regular seasons, back to back conference titles, a heisman trophy, and a national title.

---