FSU Football: Seminoles Stun Alabama in Week 1, 31-17

The Florida State Seminoles had a tough matchup coming off a terrible 2024 season. And when Alabama scored on the first possession, it looked like 2025 may follow in a similar path. However, that wasn’t the case as FSU stunned Alabama in their Week 1 matchup.

The Seminoles showed they found the right quarterback and were the more physical team. They are back to the swagger that they have had in the past, and could be a big player in the ACC this season.

FSU vs. Alabama Week 1 Recap

Tony White Effect

Alabama received the opening kickoff and methodically took the ball down for a touchdown. Quarterback Ty Simpson had timely scrambles and the running game helped the Crimson Tide march 75 yards in 17 plays. The Seminoles did not hold rush lanes and Simpson was comfortable in the pocket.

After that drive, the defense really tightened up and make life difficult for Simpson. FSU defensive coordinator Tony White dialed up the right blitzes and stunts so that the Seminoles could get to Simpson and cause many third and longs.

The lack of a running game caused Alabama to put Germie Bernard in the backfield to generate rushing production. However, the front seven for FSU was impressive with Justin Cryer being explosive in stopping the run game and multiple players bringing an impressive pass rush.

The Seminoles’ secondary was a question before the game, having to face a talented trio of receivers that Alabama has. Ryan Williams dropped a few passes because of the hard hits on the defense. And, while the Seminoles did not connect with many sacks, they caused Simpson to have to scramble and cause inaccurate passes on third and fourth down.

Malzahn Offense Comes Out Hot

After the long touchdown drive by Alabama, Florida State was stopped on third down. However, a penalty gave the Seminole new life. Later in that same drive, quarterback Tommy Castellanos hit a huge pass down the field to Squirrel White before exploding with a touchdown run to tie the game.

For two and a half quarters, Gus Malzahn had the Alabama defense confused. Misdirection and play-action caused Alabama to lose contain and allow big plays. On the second drive, a reverse to speedster Micahi Danzy went for a 32-yard touchdown.

The different formations and motion allowed for more running lanes against the defense, and it was the difference in the game.

Tommy Castellanos Quick Decisions

The first drive of the game, Castellanos showed bursts on his runs to allow for manageable third downs. As the game went on, he looked comfortable and was able to execute RPO’s flawlessly.

Castellanos was able to decide on giving the ball or taking it himself. He also was able to find receivers quickly and not throw the ball in trouble, like he has done in the past. Castellanos did not pass for a lot of yards, but was efficient and kept the offense on schedule.

One key was for the Seminoles to stay in third and manageable, to allow Castellanos to use his legs to keep drives alive. The quarterback was able to avoid sacks and run for timely first downs.

Overcoming Adversity

Florida State was off to a 24-10 lead in the third quarter and just had caused a punt. On the ensuing punt, the ball took a strange bounce and hit Jaylin Lucas on the shin and Alabama recovered in Seminole territory. However, the defense stood strong and caused a turnover on downs.

After a three-and-out, Alabama finally found the end zone again on 7-play 63-yard drive, resulting in a short touchdown pass from Ty Simpson.

The pressure was back on the Seminoles as they faced a fourth and short on their own 34. Mike Norvell did not hesitate going for it only up seven in his own territory.

Former Crimson Tide running back Roydell Williams ran over a defender on his way to big first down. The Seminoles went back to the well for another big gain on a reverse to Danzy before Gavin Sawchuk ended the drive with a 14-yard touchdown.

What’s next in Week 2?

This was a totally different team from last season. With two new coordinators, there is a new attitude on both sides of the ball. The swagger is back for the Seminoles and the transfer additions have all bought in.

After this huge win, the Seminoles get FCS opponent East Texas A&M on September 6. It will be important to not look ahead, but this should be an easy win.