The Florida State Seminoles are poised to once again win the Atlantic Coast Conference, replenishing their roster with players through recruiting and the NCAA transfer portal to make up for talent lost to the NFL Draft in 2024. With the addition of quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, who transferred from Oregon State, running back Roydell Williams and defensive end Marvin Jones Jr., who transferred from Alabama, and a host of other talented transfers, the odds of winning back-to-back ACC titles are in Florida State's favor.
READ MORE: Mike Norvell describes FSU football's DJ Uiagalelei as 'complete player'
The Sporting News recently added new teams to its preseason Top 25, with the Seminoles ranked in the top 10 at No. 7.
“The Seminoles were left out of the CFP after winning the ACC last season, but that doesn't take away from coach Mike Norvell's accomplishments,” wrote Bill Bender of The Sporting News. “Florida State remains busy in the transfer portal, adding 17 players.”
While Florida State's success will depend on attracting talented transfer students, the program's recruiting efforts are helping it build a foundation for years to come. All-conference edge rusher Patrick Payton should pair well with Jones Jr. on the edge, and running back Lawrence Toafili will undoubtedly be an impact player alongside wide receiver Hi'Keem Williams.
“Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, a Clemson product who played last season at Oregon State, has pro potential, but he'll need to prove himself in an offensive line that adds former Alabama running back Roydell Williams to pair with Lawrence Toafili,” Bender continued. “Sophomore receiver Hi'keem Williams will be the breakout star this year. Edge rushers Patrick Payton and Georgia transfer Marvin Jones will lead an aggressive defense. Florida State led the ACC in scoring offense (34.6) and scoring defense (15.9) in 2023.”
The only team ranked higher on FSU's regular-season list is No. 5 Notre Dame, which will play later in the season on the road against the Fighting Irish on Nov. 9, while Florida State will play at home against out-of-state rival No. 14 Clemson on Oct. 5.
Fall training is fast approaching and preseason projections are likely to change, and while injuries and reports could change the experts' opinions, the Noles' outlook is bright.
Read more: ESPN's Greg McElroy thinks FSU football's season opener could determine College Football Playoff outcome
continue No Game Day We'll bring you the latest on Florida State football throughout the offseason.
Follow NoleGameday twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Tick tock
