TALLAHASSEE — When No. 25 Florida State runs, the rest of the pieces fall into place. When the Seminoles can’t run, there’s no foundation for the offense.

FSU showed its identity through the first four games — a physical and experienced offensive line would create rush lanes for big, bruising backs and mobile quarterback Tommy Castellanos. When receivers and tight ends blocked on the perimeter, those short runs became gains of 10 or more yards. And FSU ranks among the top 10 in the FBS with 50 runs of 10+ yards.

It’s accurate to say the Seminoles are No. 2 in the FBS in rush offense (295.4 yards). But it’s not a precise stat until context is provided: The Seminoles had just 132 rushing yards (3.5 yards per carry) against Miami’s nasty defensive front.

The Seminoles (3-2, 0-2 ACC) must r

See Full Page