Final Score
Florida State 31 – Alabama 17
In a wooden-take-no-prisoners opener, the Seminoles shocked the Crimson Tide, toppling them at home and delivering a major early-season statement.
Game Breakdown
- Rush and crush: FSU rushed for 230 yards and averaged 4.7 yards per carry, led by QB Tommy Castellanos (78 yards, 1 TD) and a physical ground game powered under OC Gus Malzahn.
- Big stops, big plays: Florida State’s defense dominated, forcing stops on 6-of-17 third downs and making three critical fourth-down stands.
- Upset reverberates: Alabama’s 23-game season-opening win streak snapped—early-season playoff hopes shaken.
- Momentum for Norvell: Coach Mike Norvell called it the result of aggressive execution, preparation, and team identity—this wasn’t luck; it was purpose.
Clutch Crunch Take
This wasn’t just a win—it was a recalibration. FSU used muscle, mindset, and timely execution to knock off a ranked SEC powerhouse. Through defense and thunderous running, they rewrote the opener narrative. Alabama? On notice.