Improvement by DC Adam Fuller

Florida State defensive coordinator Adam Fuller joined the Noles with coach Mike Norvell at the end of 2019, before Fuller served as Norvell’s defensive coordinator in Memphis.

There were many reservations about Fuller, as fans thought he lacked the necessary experience.

Adam Fuller’s coaching record:

2020–present Florida State (Defensive Coordinator)
2019 Memphis (Defensive Coordinator)
2018 Marshall (Defensive Coordinator/Safety)
2013-2017 Marshall (Ass. HC / Defensive Line / Special Teams)
2009-2012 Chattanooga (Defensive Coordinator)
2008 Default (Head Coach)
2006-2007 Richmond (Special Teams/Linebackers)
2005 Richmond (Defensive Backs)
1999-2004 Wagner (Second Defensive Coordinator)
1998 WPI (Linebackers)

I think after last season he is starting to show that he has what it takes to bring the best defensive unit to Florida State. This is something the program has been missing since Mark Stoops was here. Recruiting has picked up and talent is flocking to FSU right now, as Fuller’s defense showed last season that recruits can thrive in this defense.

You can also look at guys like Joshua Farmer, Patrick Payton and Kalen DeLoach who have taken the next step in their development. It will be fun to see what he can do with guys like Braden Fiske, Gilber Edmond and Fentrell Cypress.

When you look back at the defensive development under Coach Fuller, you see a consistent theme.

2020

PS/G: 36
Yds/G: 450.4
Total points allowed: 324

2021

Pts/G: 26.5
Yds/G: 364.8
Total points allowed: 318 (three games more than 2020)

2022

Pts/G: 20.6 (#21)
Yds/G: 302.6 (#16)
Total points allowed: 268 (#24)

Final thoughts

If you compare the three seasons Adam Fuller has had at Florida State, one thing that jumps out is his continued improvement. Florida State was a top 25 defense last season, and that’s a great accomplishment over the past six-plus years.

When Jimbo Fisher left, the roster lacked top-level talent. We all know the Taggart era and want to forget it because the talent went down even more. However, Coach Norvell and his staff are so tight and the culture they have created makes it hard not to be excited about the future of this team.