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2d ago

Gus Malzahn’s FSU Offense Powers 31-17 Win Over Alabama in Debut

Hired from UCF last November on a three-year deal, the veteran play-caller delivered an immediate turnaround in Florida State’s opener.

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Florida State head coach Mike Norvell, right, and offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn chat on the field as players warm up before an NCAA college football game against Alabama, Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, in Tallahassee, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Jan 29, 2025; Mobile, AL, USA; Florida State offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn talks with Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze during Senior Bowl practice for the American team at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Malzahn is a former Auburn football head coach. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Florida State rolled up 230 rushing yards and averaged 6.1 yards per play in a 31-17 victory over Alabama, a stark contrast to last season’s 15.4 points per game.
  • Quarterback Tommy Castellanos, a Boston College transfer who previously played for Malzahn at UCF, produced 230 total yards and a touchdown.
  • Malzahn acknowledged the familiar success against the Tide with a post on X that read, “Felt like old times tonight!!”.
  • Records show Malzahn’s FSU contract was agreed in November 2024 and runs through February 28, 2028 with salaries of $1.5 million, $2 million and $2.5 million after reportedly making about $5 million annually at UCF.
  • He left his UCF head-coaching post on November 30, 2024 to join Mike Norvell following FSU’s in-season dismissal of offensive coordinator Alex Atkins, bringing a 105-62 career head-coaching record and extensive SEC experience.