Unranked Florida State stunned No. 8 Alabama with a 31-17 victory at Doak Campbell Stadium, ending the Crimson Tide’s 23-game season-opening win streak. The win marked the first time Alabama had lost a season opener since 2001.
New quarterback Tommy Castellanos led Florida State’s offense with 78 rushing yards and a touchdown, while the Seminoles’ physical rushing attack, under new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, dominated the game. Malzahn, who previously coached at Auburn and UCF, orchestrated a game plan that kept Alabama’s defense guessing and overwhelmed their front line.
Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer faced increased pressure after a disappointing start to his second year, with DeBoer’s 6-4 record against unranked teams contrasting with Nick Saban’s 124-4 record in such matchups. The loss not only damaged Alabama’s College Football Playoff hopes but also highlighted the underdog’s triumph in a high-stakes matchup.
Students and fans swarmed the field at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee immediately after the Seminoles’ upset went final. Florida State came into the game as considerable underdogs, but their determination and execution proved too much for the top-ranked Crimson Tide.
The loss to UCLA in the first game of the 2001 campaign marked the last time Alabama dropped a season opener. DeBoer’s performance in his first year, following Nick Saban’s legendary tenure, had already drawn criticism. The disappointing start to his second year will likely amplify the scrutiny on his coaching capabilities.
Looking ahead, Alabama will look to rebound next Saturday when the Tide hosts Louisiana-Monroe. Florida State will remain home next week to face East Texas A&M, continuing their journey through the challenging schedule.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.