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Fisher Sees Plenty Of Room To Improve

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By STEVE ELLIS

The Tallahassee Democrat

Published: December 27, 2008

ORLANDO - The wrap on Jimbo Fisher's second season as Florida State's offensive coordinator comes today in the Champs Sports Bowl.

Just how far, percentage-wise, has his offense come since he took over following the 2006 season?

"Maybe 60 to 65 - not just in knowledge but capable of doing," Fisher said. "We had so many young guys this year. ... Cut down some turnovers, cut down a few of the interceptions and a few fumbles, then I think we'll be OK.

"I think the big plays will come more as we keep recruiting more electric, more fast guys that when they get in green grass don't get caught. I think you'll see us taking the next step."

An improved passing game is an important part of that missing 35 to 40 percent.

"I think we have to learn to get the ball down the field more in our passing game," Fisher said, "which I think will happen as we mature up front and at receiver, and our speed increases and knowledge at receivers grow."

Getting a head start on that today will be more difficult if Preston Parker and Taiwan Easterling do not play. Fisher is not expected to have either available for the game against Wisconsin. Parker, who is considering early entry into the NFL, injured his ankle and knee during the loss to Florida on Nov. 29. He leads FSU with 40 catches and is second with 372 receiving yards. Easterling, who is battling a lower back injury, is third with 317 receiving yards.

The focus in the offseason for FSU will be on the passing game without forgetting it has a potentially great runner in first-year tailback Jermaine Thomas.

"Learn to be conventional at times and we've got to learn to keep running the ball without the quarterback," Fisher said of a reliance on quarterback Christian Ponder's mobility this season. "Use the quarterback as a luxury when you need it and continue to improve our passing game on all aspects - from the quarterback to the receivers to the tight ends to our blitz pickup and to our pass blocking. As we continue to grow and get older I think that is the next phase we have to be able to do.

"We want to be able to do everything. We want to be able to spread the field. We want to play-action you and be able to utilize screens. I don't like to commit to being a complete power team where sometimes you don't match up. A team that overpowers you still has to be able to spread.

"You don't want to be all spread because sometimes teams can't play the other power. You want to mix. That diversity is the ultimate goal."

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