Jimbo Fisher is almost out of options.
So heaven help him if another quarterback gets hurt.
FSU, now within two weeks of its opening game against Ole Miss in Orlando, seems to be running low on quarterbacks. First, Sean Maguire breaks his foot and needs surgery. Then, backup Malik Henry is suspended indefinitely for a violation of team rules.
All of that leaves Deondre Francois and the option of Fisher holding his breath. Francois hit 15 of 22 passes for 209 yards in the spring game.
Actually, there is another scholarship quarterback available. Sophomore J.J. Constantino is still around, although his 0-4 passing in the Peach Bowl will hardly inspire the masses.
It remains to be seen just how much leash Fisher will give to Francois, and how much will involve his much-discussed running ability. The last thing the Seminoles need at this point is to have Francois knocked from the game by the Rebels.
The best option, of course, will be for Francois to hand the ball off to Dalvin Cook as much as possible. But if you were Ole Miss, wouldn’t you stack the line and force FSU to win elsewhere? Certainly, FSU’s defense and receivers seem to be good enough .
Still, it’s a tough way to begin a career for Francois. Early success could be vital.
That, and sustained health.
