A Garnet And Gold Game Wishlist

Posted Apr 10, 2007 by Aaron Knox

Updated Apr 11, 2007 at 07:46 AM

As spring football games go, this year’s Garnet and Gold game offers more intrigue than most. Here are five things we’d like to see Saturday at Doak Campbell Stadium:

* One of the quarterbacks have a spectacular performance. Following Monday’s practice, Florida State coach Bobby Bowden didn’t rule out the possibility that a strong spring game Saturday by either Xavier Lee or Drew Weatherford could help put some distance in the quarterback race. As spring camp nears a conclusion, Lee and Weatherford appear even in Bowden’s eyes. Of course, new offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher is making this call and don’t expect a starter to be named until late in fall camp. In other words, have fun answering all those same quarterback questions you’ve heard for the last two years, Coach Bowden.

* A wide-open and imaginative playbook from Fisher. So much has been made of Fisher’s arrival and the credentials he brings to the job that Jeff Bowden never had. Fisher finally can give the fans a glimpse of what to expect. Of course, we know this isn’t a real game (or even a game at all since it’s the offense against the defense in a points system), but it sure would be nice to see Fisher put a stamp on the offense in his first real opportunity.

* Wide receiver Greg Carr going across the middle for a catch and even breaking a tackle or two. As FSU seeks a game-breaker it lacked last year, Carr’s name keeps coming up. The receivers have gotten a lot of attention this spring for their more physical play and better blocking downfield under the guidance of new receivers coach Lawrence Dawsey. Still, Carr’s a one-trick poney at this point in his career, his specialty the jump-ball catch in the end zone. If he can add other elements to his game, he has the potential to join Dawsey as one of the best receivers in school history.

* A breakout performance from defensive end Everette Brown. He was slowed by a thigh bruise early in camp but is back on the field trying to regain his form. Brown has the potential to be FSU’s next All-American end if he stays healthy. If you’re looking for a player to keep an eye on Saturday—and one who could make a real difference come fall—watch Brown.

* A few hat tosses by offensive line coach Rick Trickett. Of the five new coaches hired by Bowden in the offseason, Trickett probably has the most personality. The ex-Marine is fun to watch during practice since he isn’t shy about getting in the face of players twice his weight. When he’s at his best, he’ll pull his cap around as he gets in a player’s face, then he’ll toss it to the ground as he enters a stance to show the player what he expects. Whatever he does, you can bet Trickett is never boring.