Five reasons FSU could struggle vs. Virginia

Florida State has had some pretty easy games since playing the Alabama Crimson Tide. That all changes when FSU hits the road to take on the Virginia Cavaliers in Week 5.

Not only will the Seminoles be away from Doak Campbell Stadium for the first time this season, but it’s a night game on a short week as they will play on Friday. On top of that, Virginia comes in with one of the top offenses in the nation which will be a big test for Florida State’s defense that’s only allowing 10 points per game.

If FSU wants to get where they ultimately want to go, these are the types of games they have to win. Here are five reasons why they could struggle to get to 4-0.

Conference road games are tough

As well as Florida State is playing, none of their opponents so far were conference opponents. No matter who the program is, it’s always tougher to win in your conference, especially on the road. A turnover here and a big play there by the other team could start a chain of events that leads to trouble.

Florida State’s defense will face it’s biggest test so far

FSU has only yielded 10 points per game this season. However, they haven’t faced an offense like Virginia which has several running backs averaging over six yards per carry and a trio of capable wide receivers, which has led to them scoring over 44 points per game. Defensively, Florida State will need to play its best game of the season.

FSU’s offense could have a bad day

Florida State has lit teams up for 58 points per game. It’s been a cakewalk basically, but a some point, every offense, no matter how good it is, has an off night. A few bad drives could put Virginia’s high-powered offense in great positions to score and put the pressure on Florida State, and pressure burst pipes sometimes.

Turnovers can ignite a downward spiral

The Seminoles have only turned the ball over three times this season. Road games can get funky in a hurry if a turnover or two happens early. Florida State needs to protect the football to avoid making an already tough game even tougher.

Getting off to a slow start

This point is closely related to the previous four. If Florida State gets off to a slow start it will make the game tougher, their defense could struggle, their offense may not click on all cylinders, and that may lead to turnovers. Especially since this game is on the road, the Seminoles need to get off to a fast start.

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