Colleges

Bowden: FSU ready for 'Canes

By TIMES WIRES
Published September 2, 2006

TALLAHASSEE - One thing was stressed after Florida State's last full practice before its opener: The team is eager to play.

"We couldn't ask for any more as far as preparation is con-cerned," coach Bobby Bowden said Friday. "We could play (today)."

Linebacker and defensive captain Buster Davis has been preparing for Monday's opener against Miami, unsure of what to expect from new offensive coordinator Rich Olson, who coached in the NFL from 1995 until returning for his second stint with the Hurricanes in February.

Davis has a plan of his own to stop the Miami offense.

"Attitude, execution and communication. We have all three of them; we're going to be all right," he said. "You never know what they're going to try to do to you. But we're going to make adjustments when we need to, and we're going to be fine."

One of Davis' tasks will be trying to contain tight end Greg Olsen, who had eight catches for 137 yards against FSU in 2005.

"We're just going to go out there, and whoever has him, whether it be man or zone, will do their job," Davis said. "It's not like he's Superman."

Defensive lineman Alex Boston (ankle) missed another practice. Bowden said he doubts Boston will play much against Miami.

FSU has a short practice today to go over the game plan before departing for Miami.

Miami: Fine-tuning left

CORAL GABLES - A solid afternoon practice left just a few things for the Hurricanes to do before Monday's game at the Orange Bowl.

"Continual mental preparation, some light work and fine-tuning is all that the Hurricanes need before Monday night's game," coach Larry Coker said.

Right tackle Jason Fox took most of the snaps with the first team, and fellow freshman Javarris James will be the first back in the game after Charlie Jones, Coker said.

"They will get their chance on Monday against the Seminoles. These guys, I think, are ready," Coker said of the freshmen.

[Last modified September 2, 2006, 02:02:51]