Can young Seminoles spark FSU football vs. Clemson? Here's who to watch

As Florida State football (3-4, 1-2 ACC) returns from its bye week and prepares for a Halloween night matchup against Clemson, coach Mike Norvell says the Seminoles could lean more heavily on younger players as they evaluate the depth of the roster and look for a spark in the season's final stretch.

During Monday's press conference , Norvell said several underclassmen used last week's practices to make a strong impression and could see increased opportunities when Clemson (4-3, 2-2) visits Doak Campbell Stadium on Oct. 31.

"I truly believe that they've stayed focused on the things they control and their growth and improvement," Norvell said. "I'm excited to watch them play this week, but we've got to have a great week of preparation. It was good to have those practices last week.

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"Some guys might have increased roles. Guys a little further down the depth chart got some extra work to continue showing where they are. It was an aggressive week of practice, and I thought the guys handled that well."

Here are six young Seminoles who could see expanded roles against Clemson:

FSU's running back depth has taken a hit following the season-ending injury to Ousmane Kromah and with Samuel Singleton Jr. still unavailable.

That could create a larger role for true freshman Amari Thomas behind starter Tre Wisner. Coaches and teammates have consistently praised Thomas' explosiveness and long-term potential.

The Blountstown native has appeared in four games and recorded three carries, but his workload could increase significantly as the Seminoles look for additional production in the backfield.

Norvell indicated Monday that true freshman wide receiver Devin Carter could make his long-awaited debut if he avoids any health-related setbacks this week.

"Devin Carter, I think, is coming into having an opportunity this week, once again barring any setbacks," Norvell said. "We'll see where that goes and what that looks like, but he continues to be another explosive player that brings opportunity."

Carter impressed during spring practice and appeared poised to contribute immediately as a freshman before a back injury and bruised ribs sidelined him.

If healthy, he could provide another playmaking option for FSU's offense against Clemson.

Norvell specifically highlighted freshman receiver Jasen Lopez after a key reception in FSU's loss to Miami for a 39-yard gain.

"I was really pleased with Jasen Lopez having a big catch in the Miami game," Norvell said. "He's getting a little bit more work there. I thought he had a good week of practice last week as well."

While Duce Robinson, Micahi Danzy and Jayvan Boggs remain the primary receiving targets, Lopez continues to emerge as another reliable option for quarterback Ashton Daniels. He also could contribute on special teams as a punt returner.

Linebacker depth remains a concern with Blake Nichelson unavailable and Omar Graham Jr. suffering an injury against Miami.

That could open the door for freshman linebacker Karon Maycock, who has appeared in five games and recorded four tackles this season.

Most of his defensive production came against Central Arkansas, and he has primarily contributed on special teams. Still, the circumstances could create a larger defensive role if FSU remains short-handed at linebacker.

FSU's cornerback group has battled injuries throughout the season, and Quindarrius Jones' availability has fluctuated in recent weeks.

As a result, Nehemiah Chandler could continue seeing increased snaps on the outside. Defensive coordinator Tony White recently praised Chandler for making critical plays despite limited opportunities.

The former Wakulla High and South Alabama standout has provided valuable depth, totaling nine tackles, one interception and two pass breakups in seven games this season.

Freshman safety Jordan Crutchfield is another player Norvell believes could be ready to contribute.

The 6-foot-3, 218-pound defensive back has appeared in four games, but injuries have limited his consistency throughout the season.

"Jordan's a guy that has shown some flashes here," Norvell said. "He's just dealt with some minor injuries that have kind of set him back in terms of the consistency of his opportunities. But I'm expecting him to get some good work here this week and hopefully be available."

If healthy, Crutchfield could add depth at safety and continue building toward a larger role in FSU's defense.

Fan Cam: FSU fans cheer on the Noles against New Mexico State

Where: Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL

FSU football vs. Central Arkansas: Best photos from game

Nov. 13: at Pittsburgh , 7 p.m. (ESPN, Friday)

Nov. 27: vs. Florida , 3:30 p.m. (ABC, Friday)

Peter Holland Jr. covers Florida State athletics and Big Bend Preps for the Tallahassee Democrat. If you'd like to pitch a story on a high school athlete, don't hesitate to get in touch with him via email at PHolland@Gannett.com or on X @_Da_pistol.