Florida State’s highly anticipated season opener against Alabama is set to be one of the biggest early matchups of the college football season. After a brutal 2-10 campaign, the Seminoles are eager for redemption under head coach Mike Norvell, who is entering his second year of a lucrative contract extension—one that was largely influenced by Alabama’s reported interest in him.
The Crimson Tide ultimately chose Washington’s Kalen DeBoer as the successor to legendary coach Nick Saban. DeBoer, who led Washington to a 9-4 record in 2024, now faces a new challenge in Tuscaloosa, especially with the departure of quarterback Jalen Milroe to the NFL Draft.
While attending the Reese’s Senior Bowl to support his former players, DeBoer briefly addressed Alabama’s non-conference schedule, including the marquee showdown in Tallahassee. He emphasized that matchups against Florida State and Wisconsin would serve as a strong test before SEC play.
“With Florida State as the opener and Wisconsin a couple of weeks later, it’s a good, competitive schedule,” DeBoer told BamaOnline. “That’s what we want leading into conference play. We want to be challenged and tested heading into SEC action.”
This will mark the first meeting between Florida State and Alabama since 2017. The Seminoles, undergoing a major roster overhaul, will introduce key new players, including quarterback Thomas Castellanos, wide receiver Squirrel White, center Luke Petitbon, defensive end James Williams, and linebacker Stefon Thompson.
The two powerhouse programs will square off on Saturday, August 30, in the newly renovated Doak Campbell Stadium, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying battle.
