Alabama legend Nick Saban was a perfect 17-0 in season openers. It’s the second season for Kalen DeBoer, and it’s not looking good already. For the first time in 24 years, the Crimson Tide is 0-1 to start the season. It’s the first win for FSU over Alabama since 2007 and just the Seminoles’ second win over the Crimson Tide in six meetings. And if the significant issues are not addressed, further losses are likely to come for the new head coach, DeBoer.
FSU Humiliates Alabama
On Saturday, the Seminoles stun the Crimson Tide 31-17. Analysts are blaming the new offensive system and a retooled defense. The pairing of Ty Simpson with Ryan Grubb initially sparked optimism, but it has raised doubts about whether Alabama’s talent can meet its lofty expectations.
Seminoles’ quarterback Tommy Castellanos threw for 152 yards and rushed for 78. FSU, in total, recorded over 300 yards.
Crimson Tide opened the night with a statement, marching 75 yards on a 16-play drive that chewed up nearly nine minutes of clock. Simpson capped it off with a short touchdown pass to tight end Josh Cuevas, giving the Tide an early lead.
How sweet it is!!!!! #fsuvsbama pic.twitter.com/8OgeV7sAOi
— The C Gap Blitz Podcast (@CGapBlitz) August 31, 2025
Seminoles wasted no time answering. Florida State struck back with a quick seven-play, 75-yard drive highlighted by a 40-yard third-down strike from Castellanos to a diving Squirrel White. Moments later, Castellanos finished it himself with a 9-yard touchdown run.
Alabama’s missed field goal on the next drive opened the door for the Seminoles with their second touchdown drive.
In the second half, the Seminoles recorded a touchdown, making it 24-7 before the Crimson Tide clawed back into the game. However, what sealed the win for FSU was a touchdown by Gavin Sawchuk and a clutch fourth-down stop.
After the game, FSU’s offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, well aware of his prior success against Alabama, did not hesitate to take a shot at Alabama. He took to Twitter and wrote, “Felt like old times tonight!!” A little fun celebratory dig indeed.
DeBoer In Alabama Post-Saban
Alabama’s new head coach, DeBoer, has coached a total of 14 games so far, and yet he already has more embarrassing losses than his predecessor, Saban, did during his entire 17-year tenure.
Athletic director Greg Byrne had Mike Norvell at the top of his coaching wishlist after Saban in January 2014. However, Alabama went with DeBoer, who is 9-5 overall in just 14 games into his tenure.
Is this the same version of DeBoer who took Washington to the national championship game two years ago? And how long will Alabama supporters continue to trust the current product put on the field?
