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FSU vs. Charleston Southern prediction and game preview. Projecting who wins the matchup at Doak Campbell between the Seminoles and Buccaneers.

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FSU vs. Charleston Southern Game Preview

The Buccaneers kicked off their season at North Dakota State, which has managed to build an FCS dynasty with five straight FCS titles. The Buccaneers were edged by the top-ranked Bison 24-17 in overtime at the Fargodome. In their second game, the Bucs routed Division II-member Kentucky State 57-7. They recorded 527 yards in total offense—including 405 on the ground—and scored six rushing touchdowns. Meanwhile, the Seminoles stormed back in the second half of their opener to beat Ole Miss. What seemed like a loss before the team even entered halftime, the ‘Noles turned up the defensive heat as quarterback Deondre Francois became more comfortable as a first-time starting quarterback, and FSU ultimately left Camping World Stadium unscathed.

What To Know About Charleston Southern

The defending Big South Conference champion Buccaneers are one of the best teams in the FCS, led by a strong running game featuring Mike Holloway and Alan Barnwell carrying the rock behind a nasty offensive line in the read-option attack. The Bucs are physical on defense as well, particularly up front, which should help the greener back end of the defense over the course of the season. There are many around the program that believe the Bucs are positioned for their best season yet.

What to Know About FSU

Deondre Francois grew up—and grew up fast—in the team’s opening win against Ole Miss. The ‘Noles nearly became the third Top 5 team to stumble out of the gate, but the redshirt freshman showed that the hype surrounding him is legit. Once he settled in, he showed that he has good arm strength and is tough as nails—he stayed in the pocket and delivered several clutch throws when facing high levels of pressure. He completed 33 of 52 passes for 419 yards and two touchdowns, and he also rushed for 59 yards. Most important is the fact that he played turnover-free football.

Advantages

Offense: Florida State. Francois now has a start under his belt, and Dalvin Cook is one of the best running backs in the country. While he found little running room early against the Rebels, he had a career-high seven catches for 101 yards and ended up with 91 rushing yards on 23 carries.

Defense: Florida State. Did you see what the ‘Noles did to the Rebels in the second half? FSU forced quarterback Chad Kelly into four turnovers, and the defensive intensity was too much for Ole Miss to overcome.

Special Teams: Florida State. The ‘Noles have a distinct athletic advantage in the third phase.

Coaching: Florida State. Jimbo Fisher is one of the best at making second-half adjustments.

Intangibles: Florida State. The ‘Noles will be hyped for their home opener.

Matchup To Watch

Charleston Southern’s defensive front vs. FSU’s O-Line

Ole Miss made life tough for the FSU offensive line, especially in the first half. The ‘Noles have a very deep unit because so many players have played dating to last season for a variety of reasons, particularly due to injury. The talent is there, but it will need to grow up and gel quickly. The strength of this Bucs defense is up front, so we will see if Francois has consistent time to throw this week.

Betting Odds

Spread: No line

Over/Under: No line

FSU vs. Charleston Southern Prediction

The Seminoles will roll in their home opener. The offensive line will play much better against an inferior opponent (compared to Ole Miss), Cook will have a big day on the ground and Francois will log another productive effort through the air. Charleston Southern should have a scoring drive or two early to keep it close in the first half, but the talent difference will be overwhelming for the FCS squad.

FSU vs. Charleston Southern Score Prediction: Florida State 48, Charleston Southern 20

MORE: Week 2 College Football Bowl Projections