FSU’s Mike Norvell: Clemson has ‘Athletic and Aggressive’ Defense

Florida State (3-4) coach Mike Norvell recognizes that Clemson (4-3) has an attacking, blitzing style of defense that could wreak havoc for the Seminoles’ offense.

“They're aggressive in what they do,” said Norvell. “They blitz about 50% of the time. They're athletic. They've got good size across the front seven.”

The Tigers are tied for third in the ACC with 20 sacks. Clemson recorded six sacks in the 20-16 loss to Virginia Tech. That was the most in a game by the Clemson defense this season.

Further, the Tigers have collected 23 tackles for loss in their last two games against Charleston Southern and Virginia Tech.

Another aspect of the Clemson defense that Norvell pointed out was the improvements in their secondary. The Tigers pass defense is fourth in the ACC at 185 passing yards allowed per game.

“They're able to play a lot of man,” said Norvell. “I think (Ashton) Hampton's probably the best corner that we've faced up to this point this year. That's one of the things that's allowed them to do more defensively is the ability to play man and play it well.”

In addition, the Tigers have allowed just seven touchdown passes this season, and intercepted four passes.

Hampton has one interception this season, with 25 tackles, three tackles for loss, and nine pass breakups.

Further, Hampton’s teammate Elliot Washington II has three interceptions this season (leads the team). He also has 23 tackles, four pass breakups, and one forced fumble.

However, Clemson has not intercepted a pass in their last three games.

Florida State will counter with a talented group of skill players, beginning with quarterback Ashton Daniels.

Daniels has accounted for 1,972 yards of total offense and scored 23 touchdowns this season. Ball security has been an issue for Daniels this season with eight interceptions.

Daniels has thrown an at least one interception in six of their seven games this season, including a season-high three in the road loss at Alabama. That bodes well for the Clemson defense.

That Clemson defensive front will challenge the Florida State offensive line. The Seminoles rank near the bottom of the ACC in sacks allowed with 18 so far this season.

As bad as Clemson is offensively, Florida State cannot win against the Tigers if Daniels is under immense pressure all game long and his passing rhythm is disrupted.

The Seminoles’ offensive line must pass protect and create a clean pocket for Daniels to operate in so he can get the ball downfield to Duce Robinson, Micahi Danzy, and Jayvan Boggs.

Further, Clemson is solid against the run. They allow 131 yards per game, but have not allowed 100 yards rushing since giving up 192 yards on the ground to Miami on Oct. 3.

Florida State has rushed for 130 yards or more in each of their last four games, including 281 yards and five touchdowns in the 38-7 win over Virginia.

Florida State must protect Daniels in the pocket. Also, they must be balanced by adding explosive plays in the run game.

If they can do that, then the Seminoles can defeat Clemson for only the second time in the Norvell era.

Florida State has beaten Clemson only twice in the last 12 seasons, in 2014 and in 2023. That win in 2014 was the last time the Seminoles beat Clemson in Tallahassee.