Alabama's top ranking is shattered as Florida State revels in ground superiority, securing an upset victory.

Florida State Upsets No. 8 Alabama in Stunning Season Opener

In a thrilling turn of events, the Florida State Seminoles stunned No. 8 Alabama with a 31-17 victory in Tallahassee, Florida. This historic win marked a significant comeback for the Seminoles, who struggled in the previous season with a 2-10 record.

The Seminoles started strong, scoring on their second possession of the game. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos led the charge, completing a 40-yard pass and rushing for a touchdown on a 9-yard run, giving Florida State an early 7-0 lead.

Alabama responded with a 16-play, 75-yard drive, ending with a touchdown. However, the Crimson Tide could not maintain momentum, managing little offence for the rest of the first half. Florida State extended their lead to 14-7 with a 32-yard reverse to Micahi Danzy and a 45-yard field goal from Jake Weinberg.

The second half saw a defensive battle, with Alabama suffering three turnover-on-downs. The decisive factor came in the final turnover, which effectively iced the game for Florida State.

Four different Florida State players scored rushing touchdowns in the victory, with Caziah Holmes crossing the line for a 4-yard touchdown. The drive was set up by a 64-yard completion from Castellanos to Jaylin Lucas. Florida State ran for 230 yards and four touchdowns in the game.

Alabama's star receiver Ryan Williams managed just five catches for 30 yards and left the game in the fourth quarter with an apparent head injury. Alabama's starting quarterback Ty Simpson completed 23 of 43 passes for 254 yards and threw two touchdowns, but it was not enough to overcome Florida State's offensive performance.

The win was a testament to the new players and coordinators for the Florida State Seminoles in the 2025 season. Quarterbacks Castellanos, Sperry, and Glenn led the team in a historic offensive performance, while the defence held strong despite losing Ethan Pritchard to injury. Coach Mike Norvell continues to be a critical support for the squad, having led them to exceptional achievements in 2023, including a notable 31-17 upset over No. 8 Alabama.

This loss marks the first season-opening loss for Alabama since 2001 under second-year head coach Kalen DeBoer. DeBoer has now lost to four unranked opponents in his first 14 games at Alabama, while Nick Saban, his predecessor, lost to four unranked opponents in his 17-year tenure (123-4 record).

The Florida State Seminoles have started their 2025 season on a high note, demonstrating a newfound strength and determination. The team will look to build on this victory as they continue their season.