5 reasons Louisville can upset Florida State

4. Florida State will be missing its most important defender

Jackson did not have much success on the ground against the Seminoles as a freshman, as he totaled only 32 yards on 19 carries. The main reason for Jackson’s struggles was safety Derwin James, who acted as a spy on Jackson throughout the game.

James was expected to act in the same role this season, which could have severely limited Jackson’s playmaking ability. However, the Seminoles announced earlier in the week that James suffered a knee injury and will miss 5-7 weeks.

Other than perhaps Dalvin Cook, James was the most important player on the Florida State roster. Few defensive players in the nation are more versatile or talented than James, and nobody can replace his ability to contain Jackson in the pocket.

James’ absence is going to put a lot more strain on the Florida State defensive line to seal the edge and keep Jackson from getting to the second level. A healthy Seminoles roster has the ability to do that with DeMarcus Walker and Josh Sweat, but it is unknown if the latter will play after not flying down with the team on Thursday due to a knee injury.

Walker will need to repeat his performance from the season opener, when he piled up 4.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss against Ole Miss. While the offensive line is not a strength for Louisville, the unit retains five players who started last year and can effectively block for Jackson against the depleted Seminoles defense.

Next: 3. Louisville can generate explosive plays