Colleges

Florida State keys

By BRIAN LANDMAN, Times Staff Writer
Published September 29, 2007

FSU RB Antone Smith vs. Alabama run defense

Smith has rushed for 220 yards on 53 attempts (a healthy 4.2 average) and has scored twice, but the offensive coaches expected more production and needed it to take pressure off the passing game. A mild concussion cost him a good chunk of time against UAB and a right, big toe injury he suffered shortly before the opener hasn't helped. But the bye week has given him sorely needed time off and he said the toe is feeling better. Alabama allowed 301 rushing yards against Arkansas (195 to Heisman hopeful Darren McFadden) and then 153 against Georgia.

FSU DTs vs. Alabama RB Terry Grant

Grant, a redshirt freshman, is 15th nationally in rushing with 483 yards (120.75 a game and 6.6 per carry) and with one more TD will tie Shaun Alexander for the most rushing scores by a freshman at Alabama since 1972. Meanwhile, the Seminoles' interior defensive line is ailing. Sophomore Budd Thacker (dislocated right, big toe) is questionable and redshirt junior Paul Griffin probably will start, while senior Andre Fluellen (partial torn ligament, left elbow) is expected to return to the starting lineup after missing the Colorado game.

FSU special teams vs. Alabama KR/PR Javier Arenas

FSU is allowing an average of 24.6 yards per kickoff return and 7.3 yards per punt return. Both units will be challenged by sophomore DB Javier Arenas, a former Robinson High standout. He's averaging 25.0 yards on kick returns and an eye-popping 15.0 yards on punt, including a 45-yarder against Western Carolina and a 58-yarder against Arkansas. In his career, he has two punts for touchdowns.

[Last modified September 28, 2007, 19:01:15]