How Tommy Castellanos Sparked FSU’s Season with 78 Rushing Yards & a TD in 31‑17 Upset Over No. 8 Alabama

Florida State Ends Alabama’s 23‑Game Opener Streak Behind Castellanos’s Dynamic Debut

In an electrifying season opener on August 30, 2025, Florida State stunned No. 8 Alabama with a decisive 31‑17 victory, snapping the Tide’s remarkable streak of 23 consecutive wins in season openers.

Tommy Castellanos Leads the Charge

In his debut as FSU’s starting quarterback, Tommy Castellanos delivered a standout performance, rushing 78 yards and scoring a touchdown—a punishing ground effort that anchored FSU’s early momentum. On the passing front, he completed 9 of 14 attempts for 152 yards.

Team Stats Showing FSU’s Edge

• Total Yards: FSU outgained Alabama 382 to 328

• First Downs: 20 for FSU vs. 18 for Alabama

• Turnovers: Alabama held the ball clean (0 turnovers), vs. 1 turnover by FSU

• Time of Possession: Nearly even—FSU held the ball for 30:22, Alabama 29:38

• Attendance at Doak Campbell Stadium: A vibrant crowd totaled 67,277

Key Contributors and Momentum Shifts

FSU took control early, tying it 7–7 in the first quarter and continuing to dominate through halftime. Micahi Danzy’s 32-yard run for a touchdown and a 45-yard field goal by Jake Weinberg helped FSU lead 17–7 at the break. In the second half, explosive plays and efficient clock management sealed the win, including touchdowns by Caziah Holmes and Gavin Sawchuk.

What This Win Means for FSU

This isn't just a win—it’s a statement victory. FSU, which came into the game as two-touchdown underdogs, has shifted expectations upward, with possible season win forecasts rising from 7–8 to 9–10 games and talk of an ACC Championship run.

Casting the Long Shadow Away

Last season’s 2–10 collapse was one of the steepest in modern college football. This comeback narrative—led by new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn and empowered by Castellanos’s leadership—is already reshaping the Seminoles’ momentum.