The Florida State Seminoles struggled defensively in a tough 35-11 loss to the North Carolina Tar Heels, highlighting persistent issues in stopping the run game and closing defensive gaps. North Carolina’s ground attack, led by a dynamic backfield, consistently found openings in the Seminoles’ defense.
These gaps allowed North Carolina to rack up rushing yards and sustain drives, putting pressure on FSU’s defensive line and secondary.
Florida State’s defensive struggles were evident throughout the game, as the team was unable to contain the Tar Heels’ offensive momentum. North Carolina capitalized on FSU’s missed tackles and coverage lapses, especially in key third-down situations. This lack of defensive cohesion allowed the Tar Heels to control possession and exploit the Seminoles’ weaknesses across the field.
Head Coach Mike Norvell expressed disappointment in the team’s defensive performance, emphasizing the need for improvement as the season progresses. Norvell acknowledged that FSU must address its defensive gaps if it hopes to be more competitive in upcoming games, especially with challenging matchups still ahead in the season. Despite the setback, he remains focused on developing younger players and improving team coordination to build a more resilient defensive unit.
The Seminoles will need to make significant adjustments to their defensive strategy, particularly against strong running offenses, to avoid similar issues in future games. With a high-profile game against No. 8 Notre Dame coming up, the Seminoles face a critical test of their resilience and ability to adapt under pressure.
