TALLAHASSEE, Fla. _ Florida State continues to keep its quarterback battle close to vest.
But offensive coordinator Walt Bell says his quarterbacks are starting to distance themselves in the starting job competition.
The Seminoles could be close to announcing a starter between junior Deondre Francois, sophomore James Blackman and redshirt freshman Bailey Hockman.
"We're getting closer. Every day we're getting closer. Every day there's a little bit more separation," Bell said on Tuesday. "... We're getting closer to announcing a guy or at least our team knowing or however coach Taggart wants to do that."
Francois, FSU's 2016 starter, has looked the more accurate quarterback during portions of practice open to media during the first two weeks of the preseason.
Blackman, FSU's starter last season, has not been as accurate, but continues to win over coaches and teammates with his confidence and enthusiasm.
Hockman, who got his first college experience in the spring game, knows he is going against two returning starters, but remains optimistic in the battle.
While Bell is not sure when Taggart wants to announce a starter, he said the Seminoles players may already have a feel for the quarterback leading the way.
"I think we're starting to see some separation. I think the kids are more importantly. That's who it's important to," Bell said. "The other 10 guys know before we do. ... Hopefully we'll get that done soon."
