FSU Extends Winning Streak to 14, Dominating Wake Forest in ACC Showdown
ICARO Media Group
In a highly anticipated ACC matchup, the Florida State Seminoles continued their winning ways, defeating the Wake Forest Demon Deacons with a commanding 41-16 victory. With this win, FSU extended their winning streak to 14 games, solidifying their dominance in the conference and showcasing their prowess on the football field.
The Seminoles entered the game with an unblemished record, standing at a perfect 8-0 for the season. Furthermore, their 6-0 record in the ACC marked their best start in conference play since 2014. The impressive performance led to Florida State's reiteration at the fourth position in the latest Associated Press poll, maintaining their place in the top-5 rankings for the ninth consecutive week. This achievement matched the program's longest streak since 2013-2014 when they held a top-5 position in 27 consecutive polls.
During the winning streak, which has now become the third-longest active streak in the country, the Seminoles have shown their offensive prowess, outscoring their opponents 585-255. Their dominance is further exemplified by their consistent ability to score at least 30 points in the last 14 consecutive games, making it the longest active streak in the nation and the second-longest in the history of the ACC, just behind FSU's own streak from 2012-2014 when they scored 30 points or more in 17 consecutive games.
While the offense has been exceptional, FSU's defense has been equally formidable. The Seminoles boast one of the nation's best pass defenses, leading the country in both fewest passing touchdowns allowed (3) and opponent completion percentage (49.4). Their defense holds a remarkable fifth position in opponent passer rating (101.59) and they are the only team in the nation that forces more incompletions than completions allowed. This feat has not been achieved by a Power 5 team since 2018 when Michigan and LSU held their opponents below 50 percent completions.
In October, Florida State's defensive unit showcased their exceptional skills. They emerged as the only team in the country to not allow a passing touchdown that month. During this period, the Seminoles led the nation in opponent completion percentage (41.7), yards per pass allowed (4.2), and opponent passer rating (72.41). Their outstanding defensive displays were complemented by their strong overall performance, as they produced the best scoring defense in the ACC, allowing just 14.0 points per game, ranking them 10th nationwide.
The Seminoles' red zone efficiency has also been commendable this season. They lead the ACC and secure the 11th position in the country in red zone offense, converting an impressive 93.9 percent of their red zone drives into points. Additionally, their red zone defense ranks 16th in the nation, allowing points on only 73.1 percent of their opponents' drives that reach the 20-yard line.
Individual performances have also contributed to Florida State's success. Keon Coleman, the team's receiver, caught a career-high three touchdown passes against No. 5 LSU, while Trey Benson, the rusher, tallied three rushing scores in a game against Southern Miss. Coleman is among 25 receivers nationwide with a three-touchdown game this season, while Benson joins the ranks of 58 players with three rushing scores in a game.
Furthermore, the Seminoles' defense has showcased their resilience and discipline when facing threats deep within their territory. They have faced 49 plays inside their own 10-yard line this season, allowing only 11 touchdowns. Against LSU, they defended their end zone admirably, facing ten snaps inside their own 5-yard line and permitting just two scores. This outstanding defensive performance demonstrates FSU's ability to rise to the occasion when challenged.
As the current ACC leaders and with a formidable winning streak under their belt, the Florida State Seminoles are undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in college football. Their dominance on both offense and defense has solidified their status as one of the top teams in the nation, setting high expectations for their future games.