Florida State defense targets communication fixes ahead of ACC opener against SMU

Florida State opened its 2026 season with a 34-17 win against New Mexico State at Doak Campbell Stadium. Despite the victory, defensive coordinator Tony White and players expressed dissatisfaction with the unit's performance, citing communication failures and trouble on third downs as primary concerns. New Mexico State converted 10 of 17 third-down opportunities, extending drives against the Seminoles' 3-3-5 scheme. White identified a need for better execution in sub-packages and more disciplined pass-rush lanes. The team now turns its attention to an ACC matchup against SMU on September 7. The Mustangs, led by veteran quarterback Kevin Jennings, present a significant test in the Seminoles' first conference game of the season.

• 10:04 AMYahoo Sports — How Tony White plans to tweak FSU football defense to fulfill standard