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2h ago

Florida State Upsets No. 8 Alabama 31-17 in Opener, Validating Castellanos’ Preseason Boast

Gus Malzahn’s rush-first scheme produced 230 rushing yards, intensifying questions about Alabama’s post‑Saban trajectory.

Aug 30, 2025; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Ryan Williams (2) during warmups before the game between the Florida State Seminoles and the Alabama Crimson Tide at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Unranked Florida State, a 13.5-point underdog, beat Alabama 31-17 at Doak Campbell Stadium as fans stormed the field, snapping the Tide’s 23-game streak of season‑opening wins dating to 2001.
  • Thomas Castellanos threw for 152 yards and ran for 78 yards with a touchdown, backing up his summer claim that Alabama wouldn’t stop him.
  • Powered by Malzahn’s new offense, the Seminoles controlled the line of scrimmage with 230 rushing yards to Alabama’s 87 and averaged 4.7 yards per carry.
  • Alabama’s offense sputtered after an opening-drive score, with Ty Simpson pressured frequently and Freshman All‑American receiver Ryan Williams leaving late with a concussion.
  • Kalen DeBoer said there are “no excuses” and the result “falls on everyone,” as fan and media criticism swelled and the Tide turn to Louisiana‑Monroe next week seeking a reset.