Florida State's first day in pads was a resounding success, with true freshman linebacker Izayia Williams making a lasting impression on head coach Mike Norvell.
Florida State's Mike Norvell was pleased with his team's first day in pads, describing it as "very competitive" with "some heightened emotions." The head coach highlighted several key takeaways from the practice, starting with the impressive performance of true freshman linebacker Izayia Williams.
Williams, who missed his senior season at Tavares High School with a torn ACL, was cleared for full participation entering camp and made the most of his first padded practice. Norvell was effusive in his praise, saying, "I mean his very first rep. I mean speed, explosive, violent, and I was jumping on him, draped all over him." The coach noted that Williams "has the skill set, the traits. You can see there's no hesitation."
The offense also had a notable day, with freshman wide receiver Jasen Lopez standing out for his big plays. Norvell pointed out that Lopez had three significant plays throughout the practice, and praised the receiver group for benefiting from matchups that they didn't get in the spring. The coach also singled out the tight ends as a group he is watching closely, citing their speed and fight.
On the defensive side, Norvell was impressed with the performance of the defensive line, which has been characterized as undersized. Despite this, the front held up well in the first padded practice without needing to move every snap. Norvell noted that the unit's get-off has been a bigger factor than its scheme, saying, "You don't have to move this group every play for them to be explosive, and they're showing that."
The defensive line's ability to hold the point and knock people back was also highlighted by the coach, who said, "It's a powerful group. I mean, some guys might not weigh 300 pounds, but I mean, they're strong." The speed of the second level was also a notable factor, with Norvell praising the closing unit, which includes linebackers and safeties.
The full interview with Mike Norvell is available on Warchant, and provides further insight into the Seminoles' first day in pads. With the team now having completed its first padded practice, attention will turn to the next phase of camp, where they will continue to build on the progress made so far.
Source: Yahoo Sports