SHREVEPORT, La. -- It’s not unusual for bowl games to provide a platform for younger players to make their first real impact on the college level.
In last year’s Orange Bowl, it was freshman wide receiver Keith Gavin who came through with a huge, 66-yard kickoff return to set up Florida State’s winning touchdown in the final minutes. It was Gavin’s first time touching the ball in a college game.
In this Wednesday’s Independence Bowl, Florida State could see a number of freshmen making larger contributions than they have all season. Whether due to early departures for the NFL, academic issues or player transfer, at least five freshman Seminoles could find themselves in the spotlight this week.
Here is a closer look at those five true freshmen and how they can help FSU’s cause against Southern Miss:
Defensive end Josh Kaindoh
The former five-star recruit has taken advantage of his limited opportunities already in 2017. He has played in 12 games and racked up 17 tackles with 4.0 sacks.
Kaindoh has been working his way into the rotation all year, but he could be in line for a starring role against Southern Miss. Junior Josh Sweat, the starter at strongside defensive end, has decided to skip the bowl game to prepare for the NFL Draft. That leaves Kaindoh as the likely starter across from sophomore Brian Burns.
Because Kaindoh is such an explosive pass-rusher, the Seminoles shouldn’t miss a beat there. Where Sweat’s absence could hurt, however, is in stopping the run. If Kaindoh struggles in that area, the Seminoles could take a look at redshirt sophomore Jalen Wilkerson, who is a little more mature physically at 6-foot-5 and 283 pounds. Kaindoh is listed at 6-7 and 252.
