NCAA Basketball Power Rankings: Butler, Villanova rising for the Big East

The ACC, as a whole, has disappointed so far this season. Most notably, Virginia and North Carolina have really struggled and none of the “middle tier” teams have come out of the gates with strong non-conference performances. That, though, shouldn’t take away from the fact that Florida State belongs safely in the top-25 right now.

The Seminoles’ resume is solid, albeit not great, and they pass the eye test on both ends of the floor. Most notably, their defensive unit brings the length and athleticism that we have grown accustomed to seeing out of head coach Leonard Hamilton’s squads.

For the year, Florida State’s adjusted defensive efficiency rating is slotted as the ninth-best in the country and this is largely due to their opportunistic tendencies. The Seminoles currently rank eighth nationally in block rate and fourth in steal rate as they consistently make opponents pay for poor offensive decision-making.

This team forces its opposition into long, drawn-out possessions by cutting off drives and staying active in passing lanes. They are one of the toughest teams in the nation to score on with any consistency.

On the offensive end of the floor, Florida State is well-balanced. The team might not rank extremely high in efficiency standards but they can shoot it from three, finish inside, offensively rebound, and take advantage of several free-throw attempts per game. From an individual contributor standpoint, only two Seminoles are averaging in double-figures so far this season with Trent Forrest (11.9 points) and Devin Vassell (11.9 points).

Their lack of a true go-to offensive star and that can hurt them on occasion but balance leads the way on both ends for this squad.