In an exciting new feature on the site I take a dive into whether a disappointment (player, coach, team, whatever) is FAULT or FLUKE You’ll figure it out.
1. Florida’s losing season.
FAULT
Billy Napier didn’t inherit a ton at Florida, as it was kind of a mess with Dan Mullen mailing in recruiting and some poor coaches not getting players to the next level. But with a dynamic talent like Anthony Richardson, I expected a better offensive approach. Richardson ran for more than 600 yards but I never felt his rushing ability was as big a threat as it could have been. In the games, he couldn’t get a passing rhythm, and I wanted a little more creative offensive gameplan. The defense was up and down, but in a few losses they kept the team in position to win, but the offense just became too inconsistent for my tastes.
2. Quinn Ewers’ average year.
FLUKE
He was very impressive against Alabama, but a shoulder injury (even on his nonthrowing arm) hindered his development a bit. He had some good games and some awful ones, as can be expected in his first season of college football. But his low completion rate (below 60%) and average TD-to-interception rate (15 to 6) belie his abilities. He will have a monster year this season if he stays healthy.
3. Clemson’s lack of recent playoff appearances.
FAULT
I like Dabo Swinney, and what he’s done at Clemson is remarkable. But the recent playoff drought, I have to say, is more FAULT than FLUKE. The ACC is not good, and it’s easy to maneuver for a team with Clemson’s ability, and in conference losses to NC State and Pitt have hurt them. Maybe a loss to Notre Dame is acceptable, but the loss to South Carolina just can’t happen. The ACC will be tougher this season with Florida State a threat, so you wonder if we’ve seen the last of Clemson in the playoff until it gets expanded.
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