Image Source: The Tuscaloosa News
Alabama football faces a compelling early-season test Saturday as the No. 10 Crimson Tide welcome Florida State to Tuscaloosa. The matchup is a rematch of last season’s stunning upset, when the Seminoles defeated then-No. 8 Alabama, 31-17, in the season opener.
The game was scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC, although the latest updates indicated that the start was delayed by lightning. Alabama enters the contest with a 2-0 record, while Florida State is 1-1 after a painful 27-24 loss to No. 19 SMU on a last-second field goal.
Alabama Football Faces a Critical Home Challenge
Saturday’s contest carries significance well beyond the standings. Alabama is attempting to respond to last year’s defeat and protect one of the strongest home records in college football. The Crimson Tide has won 89 consecutive home games against unranked opponents, a streak dating back to 2007.
Alabama has also dominated recent rematches. In its previous 30 games against opponents that defeated the Tide in their last meeting, Alabama won 26 times. That history, combined with the home-field advantage at Bryant-Denny Stadium, explains why the Crimson Tide opened as a heavy favorite.
FanDuel listed Alabama as an 18.5-point favorite, with the over-under set at 48.5 points. Those numbers reflect the Tide’s ranking, unbeaten start and explosive second-half performance at Kentucky last week.
Keelon Russell Looks to Bounce Back
Quarterback Keelon Russell endured a difficult first half against Kentucky, throwing three turnovers before halftime. Alabama nevertheless regrouped and delivered a dominant finish, scoring 32 unanswered points while shutting out Kentucky in the second half during a 45-17 victory.
That comeback showcased the Crimson Tide’s depth and resilience, but Russell will face a Florida State defense that has already demonstrated an ability to create pressure and take the ball away. A cleaner performance from the quarterback could be crucial against a Seminoles team capable of turning defensive mistakes into momentum.
Alabama’s offense will also look to establish consistency early. Avoiding another slow start would help the Tide control the pace and prevent Florida State from building confidence in a hostile road environment.
Florida State Brings Takeaways and a Powerful Run Game
Although Florida State struggled to finish against SMU, its defense forced four turnovers. The Seminoles now rank ninth nationally and lead the ACC with five takeaways through two games.
Defensive back Quindarrius Jones has been especially productive. He forced and recovered a fumble against SMU after recording his first career interception one week earlier against New Mexico State. Both of his takeaways came during an opponent’s opening drive, giving Florida State an early spark.
The Seminoles’ running game is another major storyline. Ousmane Kromah is averaging 115.5 rushing yards per game and has produced back-to-back 100-yard performances. He is the first Florida State running back to accomplish that feat since Trey Benson in 2022.
Samuel Singleton Jr. has also emerged as a versatile weapon. He has scored both of Florida State’s passing touchdowns this season and added a rushing touchdown. Singleton recently became the first non-receiver in program history to win ACC Receiver of the Week after collecting 164 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns against New Mexico State.
Series History Adds More Pressure
Alabama holds a 3-2-1 advantage in the overall series and is 2-0 against Florida State in Tuscaloosa. The Seminoles’ victory last season changed the tone of the rivalry, however, as Florida State rushed for 230 yards and four touchdowns while limiting Alabama to 87 rushing yards and no rushing scores.
The Crimson Tide responded well after that loss, winning its next eight games, reaching the SEC Championship Game and advancing to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. Alabama will now attempt to produce another strong response while Florida State seeks to prove last year’s upset was no fluke.
What to Watch in the Alabama Football Rematch
- Turnovers: Florida State must capitalize on defensive takeaways more effectively than it did against SMU.
- Alabama’s first half: Russell and the Tide offense need to avoid another early deficit.
- Florida State’s rushing attack: Kromah and Singleton could determine whether the Seminoles stay competitive.
- Red-zone execution: Florida State has scored on all eight of its red-zone trips this season.
- Special teams: FSU kicker Gabe Panikowski is 3-for-3 this season and has made all 18 of his collegiate field-goal attempts.
For Alabama, the mission is straightforward: defend home turf, avenge last season’s upset and continue building momentum under head coach Kalen DeBoer. For Florida State, the opportunity is even greater. Another win over a ranked Crimson Tide team would reshape the Seminoles’ season and provide a major boost after the SMU disappointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Alabama football game against Florida State?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, with kickoff set for 3:30 p.m. ET. The start was delayed by lightning, according to the latest updates.
Where is Alabama playing Florida State?
The Crimson Tide is hosting the Seminoles at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
What channel is showing Alabama vs. Florida State?
The matchup is scheduled to air nationally on ABC.
What is the betting spread?
Alabama opened as an 18.5-point favorite, with the over-under listed at 48.5 points.
Who won last year’s matchup?
Florida State defeated Alabama, 31-17, in the 2025 season opener.
