Overview

• Castellanos told On3 that “without Nick Saban” he “just don’t see” Alabama stopping him, wagering on his ability to lead Florida State after a 2-10 season in 2024.
• Alabama quarterbacks Austin Mack and Ty Simpson liked his comments on social media and defensive lineman Kelby Collins responded with a laughing emoji.
• Paul Finebaum labeled the remarks “low-hanging fruit” and predicted the Tide would “obliterate” Florida State, citing Alabama’s depth under coach Kalen DeBoer.
• South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers offered a contrasting view by asserting “Alabama’s still Alabama,” emphasizing the program’s size, speed and historic identity.
• The August 30 game at Doak Campbell Stadium is expected to serve as a key early test of Florida State’s rebuild under Mike Norvell and Gus Malzahn against a Tide team shaping its post-Saban era.