Overview
- Florida State opened the season with a 34-17 victory over New Mexico State on Aug. 29, moving to 1-0 but leaving fans and reporters unsettled by how close the game stayed.
- The running game was a clear positive as FSU rushed for 217 yards with Ousmane Kromah (about 114–115 yards, TD) and Samuel Singleton Jr. (multi‑role, two TDs) providing the biggest gains.
- Quarterback Ashton Daniels completed 17 of 27 passes for 202 yards with a passing touchdown, a rushing touchdown and an interception while often facing pressure from the rebuilt offensive line.
- New Mexico State quarterback Trey Hedden threw for 272 yards and helped the Aggies convert roughly 10 of 16 third downs, a sequence that highlighted blown coverages and soft middle-of-field defense.
- Coaches Mike Norvell and defensive coordinator Tony White said miscommunication, penalties, sub‑package execution and finishing on the pass rush are immediate priorities to fix ahead of SMU and the road trip to Alabama.