Florida State Seminoles
2000 overall record: 11-2
Conference record: 8-0 (1st)
Returning starters
Offense: 5
Defense: 4
Kickers: 1
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Travis Minor (923 yds)
Passing: Chris Weinke (4,167 yds)
Receiving: Marvin Minnis (1,340 yds)
Tackles: Bradley Jennings* and Brian Allen (102 each)
Sacks: Jamal Reynolds (12)
Interceptions: Tay Cody (6)
What's new
We've heard this before. Bobby Bowden says he is going to make the running game a priority -- even to the extent of running to set up the pass. Without a quarterback who has ever played the position in a college game, it might not be such a bad idea. Unfortunately, the Seminoles also have very little experience at running back.
Battling it out
The starting QB will be decided this fall between redshirt freshman Chris Rix and converted receiver Anquan Boldin. Boldin was one of the nation's top quarterback recruits two years ago but requested the position switch almost immediately. Rix is listed at the top of the depth chart after spring practice, but the race is very close. Both are very mobile and will have a much different style than Heisman Trophy winner Chris Weinke.
Eye catcher: DE O.J. Jackson
Jackson played behind Jamal Reynolds last season and recorded only eight tackles. But when given the chance to play in the spring, he showed great speed around the end. His impressive series of practices culminated with five sacks in the spring game. Seminole fans are hoping he could be the next in the line of great defensive ends.
Budding star: LB Kendyll Pope
Though he played some as a freshman last year behind Tommy Polley, Pope will now get enough snaps to show his talent and possibly become a dominant player. He is very fast, has great instincts and was all over the field in the spring. He has already drawn comparisons to Derrick Brooks.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
