The Six Best NFL-Caliber Players the Gators will Face in 2015

Nov 15, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Jalen Ramsey (8) runs after making an interception during the second half against Miami Hurricanes at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

FS Jalen Ramsey, Junior- Florida State

Yes, I know, Florida State is not a member of the SEC Conference but they face Florida every year so they might as well be considered a part of the SEC, at least in the Gators mind.

The leader of Florida State’s defense and arguably its most talented player is Jalen Ramsey.

Ramsey is the prototypical safety that NFL defenses covet in a pass-happy league. While he does need work in the coverage department, his impact in the run game is unquestioned.

He had 79 tackles and 9.5 tackles for loss in 2014, a tribute to just how effective Ramsey is near the line of scrimmage.

Ramsey is a playmaker, so the Gators should expect him to be close to the ball at all times.

Without any real depth at the receiver position, look for Ramsey to key in on Florida’s run game, specifically Kelvin Taylor, in the FSU/UF annual matchup.

Strengths

• Ramsey looks much bigger than he’s listed (6’1, 201 pounds). At times it’s easy to mistake him for a linebacker covering a slot receiver.
• Has good reaction time after the receiver begins their route.
• Good run tackler and isn’t afraid to get dirty every now and then. Also flashes some good power hits when he’s around the ball carrier.
• Besides football, Ramsey was also a track star at Florida State. Has rare speed that is usually seen in receivers, not safeties.

Weaknesses

• Has a tendency to get stuck on receiver blocks and screens and not be able to disengage.
• Tends to drop would-be, easy interceptions; has to work on his hand-eye coordination.
• Backs off receivers way too much in single coverage, leaving ample space for short and medium completions.

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