Florida State's defense hasn't performed at a high level consistently in 2026. They're ranked 126th in total defense and 135th against the pass, and they're also 132nd in third-down defense. Simply put, the unit is bad all across the board.
On Saturday, they have to face the Miami Hurricanes offense, which is the top-scoring unit in the nation at 49.6 points per game. Quarterback Darian Mensah only has 21 incompletions on the season and 15 touchdown passes to zero interceptions. Also, the Hurricanes average 220.4 yards per game on the ground.
This is undoubtedly the biggest challenge of the year for FSU's defense. Here are five keys for them to be successful.
Contain running backs Mark Fletcher Jr. and Javian Mallory
Fletcher is the lead back for the Hurricanes, and he's gaining 5.9 yards on every carry.
Mallory has made an impact as a freshman with nearly 300 yards so far, and he's averaging 7.4 yards per rush himself. Florida State's defense can't allow these two to run wild and set up Miami's lethal passing attack. This needs to be their biggest area to focus on.
Get pressure on Darian Mensah
FSU can't afford to let Mensah stand in the pocket comfortably all game. He's too good and too accurate for that, and he has too many weapons at his disposal. The defensive line of Florida State must do whatever they can to keep guys in Mensah's face to force him out of the pocket and make his throws more difficult.
Find a way to be better on third down
Miami is very explosive offensively, and FSU will have a long day if they're constantly moving the chains. The Seminoles' defense hasn't been able to get off the field on third down all year, which makes this an extremely tough assignment for them. They must find a way to turn that around in this game, or they'll get run off the field.
Don't let Malachi Toney take over the game
This will be another hard task for Florida State's defense. Toney is the most dynamic wide receiver in the nation outside of Jeremiah Smith of the Ohio State Buckeyes. So, the Seminoles have to pay extra close attention to where he is at all times. They need to force someone else to beat them in the passing game because if Toney is allowed to go off, it's going to be a long day for FSU's defense.
Get turnovers
This needs to be something Florida State focuses on defensively. The best way to discourage an offense is to take the ball away. It won't be easy, seeing as Miami has only committed three turnovers all season, but FSU's defense has to find a way to get a turnover or two on Saturday to have a chance to win.
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This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: Florida State's defensive keys vs Miami
