Overview
- Florida State defeated New Mexico State 34-17 on Saturday to open the season and avoid an upset while finishing with a 419-319 edge in total yards.
- Quarterback Ashton Daniels, making his Seminole debut, completed 17 of 27 passes for 202 yards with a passing touchdown, a rushing touchdown and one interception.
- The running game was the clear strength as Ousmane Kromah rushed for 115 yards and a touchdown and Samuel Singleton Jr. contributed rushing and receiving scores plus a 46-yard kickoff return.
- New Mexico State quarterback Trey Hedden threw for 272 yards and helped convert a high number of third downs, exposing Florida State’s coverage and situational‑defense breakdowns.
- Coaches and players publicly flagged the rebuilt offensive line and pass coverage as priorities to fix before Monday’s matchup with SMU, placing short-term pressure on play callers and line coaches.