Florida State Defeats No. 8 Alabama 31-17 in Key Upset

Florida State, under head coach Mike Norvell, stunned No. 8 Alabama with a 31-17 victory at Doak Campbell Stadium, marking a significant turnaround after a tough 2-10 season. Norvell emphasized that the win was about his team and their preparation rather than the opponent, highlighting the players' heart, aggression, and execution throughout the game. Key performances included dominant defensive efforts, particularly from Earl Little, and important contributions from players like Micahi Danzy and quarterback Thomas Castellanos, who had confidently predicted a win despite being new to the team. The coach praised the home crowd's energy and the atmosphere at Doak Campbell, calling it a major factor in the victory. While acknowledging the game was not perfect, Norvell stressed this win as a crucial step forward for the program's growth and his commitment to representing Florida State with pride. The victory has shifted perceptions of the Seminoles and signaled a promising start to their 2025 season.