Florida State really struggled to move the ball through the air in the first two weeks of the season against Georgia Tech and Boston College.
But the Seminoles will get a huge boost, as freshman wide receiver Hykeem Williams is available for the first time this season, giving the Florida State offense a much-needed boost in the passing game.
Star Florida State Freshman Hykeem Williams Available for Week 2
After laying an egg overseas in Week 0 against Georgia Tech and Week 1 agaisnt Boston College, the Seminoles are looking to bounce back against Group of Five College Football Playoff hopeful Memphis.
Simply put, Florida State’s downfield passing attack so far has been disasterous.
It has looked like quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei has no confidence in any of his receivers and repeatedly checked the ball down instead of pushing it down the field. Now with Williams in the lineup, could the Seminoles be better in the downfield passing game?
MORE: Simulate the College Football Season with CFN’s College Football Playoff Predictor
Williams had five catches for 80 yards as a true freshman and was expected to be a much bigger contributor in 2024 following the departure of playmakers like Keon Coleman and Jaheim Bell.
While Williams was listed as a backup at the receiver position behind star Malik Benson, he was expected to have a huge role in 2024.
Now, the Seminoles will get the chance to see what Williams can do against the Tigers.
What Williams’ Return Means to Florida State
With Williams injured, other playmakers on the outside needed to step up, but the Florida State passing attack really struggled..
The star is expected to be Benson, a transfer from Alabama who had 13 catches for 162 yards with the Crimson Tide last season, but he and others have struggled so far.
Ja’Khi Douglas will start in the slot, and the fifth-year senior will look for a breakout year. He has 49 career catches, but no more than 15 in a single season and just four so far in 2024.
Unfortunately, the Seminoles will be without starting safety Shyheim Brown for the contest.
Florida State and Memphis will play in Tallehassee at noon ET on ESPN. Follow College Football Network for coverage throughout the college football season.
College Football Network has you covered with the latest news and analysis, rankings, transfer portal information, top 10 returning players, the 2024 college football season schedule, and much more!