Florida State running back Cam Akers is thrilled about playing in new coach Willie Taggart's up-tempo, no-huddle spread offense this season.

As a freshman last season, Akers averaged 5.3 yards a carry and ran for more than 1,000 yards rushing to go with seven touchdowns. He says the new offense allows him to run in more space with more seams, which should translate into more opportunities to break big plays.

Defensive end Brian Burns describes Akers as a "monster'' in the weight room and on the field and expects him to have a huge season.  

Florida State announced in December that Taggart, who served as offensive coordinator at Oregon, would replace Jimbo Fisher as coach. Burns says Taggart has brought a "no excuses'' attitude to the team and has been holding players accountable for their actions.

The Seminoles were last in the league in offense last season and Taggart is looking forward to "changing that narrative'' and winning multiple championships.