2014 NFL Draft: Scouting Notes from Florida State vs. Maryland

Lamarcus JoynerThe 1st half and 2nd half were completely different games as the Seminoles destroyed the Terps 63 – 0. Maryland seemed to collapse after their QB was knocked out of the game in the 2nd quarter and Jameis Winston and the FSU offense took advantage in the 3rd quarter. FSU’s offense spent most of the first half shooting themselves in the foot to stop their drives but their defense kept Maryland off the board. Maryland tried testing FSU deep but their secondary was up for the challenge. Overall it was a dominating effort by Maryland and a game the Maryland quit on far too early.

 

Marcus Whitfield, OLB, Maryland (#41), 6’3, 240
His athletic ability looked to be average as his burst seemed to be lacking. Used often in coverage and looked to take good drops. Very good at picking up correct man in his zone. Showed good ability to make tackle, often trying to go after the ball. Very simply, does his job. Won’t be a Day 1 or 2 pick but has potential to be Day 3 pick that can contribute.

Christian Jones, OLB, Florida State (#7), 6’4, 232
Jones moved down to DE for this game, in order to focus on containing CJ Brown who left in the 2nd quarter. This put Jones’ pass rushing skills on display and it was a bit of a disappointment. His quickness off the snap was great, however his only plan of attack was to get outside the OT. This went poorly since Jones rarely used his hands, allowing the OT to force him past the QB. The athleticism is there, the technique and results are not.

LaMarcus Joyner CB, Florida State (#20), 5’8, 232
Joyner played with the intensity we’re use to but his size proved to be an issue in his matchup with Stefon Diggs. He lost a jump ball early in the first half and possibly more surprisingly he was beat by a full step in the 2nd (although pass was overthrown). Joyner will be a solid team leader and a good contributor in the NFL but his size will limit WRs he can matchup against and possibly how long he can play in the NFL.

Jacobbi McDaniel, DT, Florida State (#55), 6’0, 286 (JR)
Well rounded player who shows above average strength and speed. Shows good quickness off the snap and stays low, allowing him to hold his ground on the line on running plays. FSU often runs a wrap blitz with him, allowing him to show off his speed around the corner. Another player who isn’t flashy but can be used in numerous ways and gets his job done. Most underrated member of the FSU Front 7.

Cameron Erving, OT, Florida State (#75), 6’6, 320 (JR)
Plays with an intensity that you love to see from your big men. This translates well to the run game where he show tremendous drive when he gets his hands inside. However it hurts him at times in pass blocking when he overreaches to make the block and ends up off balance.

Other Notes

  • Maryland OT Nick Klemm sat out with a foot injury and CB Dexter McDougle is out for the season. Both are top prospects for the Terps.
  • Maryland QB CJ Brown was knocked out in the mid 2nd quarter after taking a shot to his chest. Prior to the injury he was playing well, throwing deep and with good accuracy, unfortunately the FSU secondary was in position.
  • Maryland S Isaac Goins had a rough day, getting beat on a few deep balls. Had a good blitz and seemed to do well at keeping eyes on QB, but overall didn’t do much to help his stock.
  • FSU’s OC Bryan Stork left in the 2nd quarter with a concussion. Didn’t look severe so I would expect to see him back next week.
  • FSU WRs had a big day including Kenny Shaw. He shows good speed, but allow ball to reach his body on a few catches.
  • 2 weeks until the Clemson-FSU game. Will definitely be an exciting game that will factor big in the ACC title and a lot of player’s NFL hopes.
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