5 FSU football defenders that impressed me in the season opener versus Alabama

Florida State's defense was on fire versus Alabama.
Aug 30, 2025; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Earl Little Jr. (0) looks on against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images
Aug 30, 2025; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Earl Little Jr. (0) looks on against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Doak S. Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images | Melina Myers-Imagn Images
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FSU FOOTBALL

Florida State football's defense was flying all over the field on Saturday afternoon as they defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide by a score of 31-17. The Seminoles added defensive coordinator Tony White in the offseason, and you can see a drastic difference in the mentality.

The Crimson Tide looked overwhelmed at times with redshirt junior quarterback Ty Simpson under center. The offensive scheme was very basic, and it felt like Alabama was trying not to make a mistake with the rollout quick passes.

Nonetheless, Coach White had his players ready to go, which is something that Florida State did not accomplish in 2024. This isn't a direct shot at the previous coach, Adam Fuller, but this looked like a squad that needed a new approach to the defense.

In this article, I want to highlight a couple of defenders that impressed me during the season opener versus the Alabama Crimson Tide.