The Sunday Sampler – FSU

The offensive line struggled to provide running room or pass protection.

Both before and after Virginia’s ACC opener, a lot of the conversation has talked about the Seminoles’ speed and talented playmakers. And rightfully so. But one of the biggest storylines in FSU’s 34-14 win on Saturday came in the trenches where Florida State dominated the action for most of the afternoon. The Cavaliers couldn’t get any push or protection on offense and they couldn’t get much penetration or pressure on defense. The results? Well, they weren’t pretty.

Offensively, Virginia’s 25 yards rushing marked the Cavaliers’ fewest rushing yards since UVa recorded minus-3 yards rushing against Wyoming in 2007. Perry Jones averaged just 2.5 yards per carry on 11 attempts, while Keith Payne posted just 3.7 yards per carry on 6 carries. Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor answered numerous questions about the struggles against the Seminoles. A few responses follow.

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