Deondre Francois threads the needle for TD pass vs Clemson (Video)

Deondre Francois threaded the needle with this touchdown pass to Nyqwan Murray.

Florida State is playing one of their biggest games of the season against Clemson, who is ranked No. 3 coming into Saturday. They have been led by emerging freshman quarterback Deondre Francois. He has 1,876 yards in the air and 10 touchdowns coming into this game and looked to add to it.

Near the end of the second quarter, Florida State trailed Clemson, 17-7 after Deshaun Watson and Wayne Gallman each had a score. So, the Seminoles would take their ensuing drive into the red zone with a strike from Francois to Kermit Whitfield. On the next play, the 19-year-old threaded the needle with this beautiful pass to wide receiver Nyqwan Murray for the touchdown. It narrowed the Tiger lead to 17-14 and took the game to the half.

This passing touchdown had been Francois’ first of the night. He finished the half 10 of 19 for 187 yards and had an interception. He will need a few more big plays in the second half to knock off Watson and Co.

A win here for FSU would likely push them into the top 10. This is despite getting crushed by Louisville and losing to North Carolina. They have since beaten Miami and Wake Forest to get back into position in the polls, and could be rewarded for it by the end of Saturday night.

It will be difficult to take Clemson down, though, who has plenty to lose as well. A loss for them may make getting into the College Football Playoff rough, especially with Washington defeating Utah. While losing to FSU wouldn’t end their chances, it will only make the obstacle greater.

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We will now see what kind of second half Deondre Francois can put up. If he can produce strong numbers, the Seminoles may be in good position.