Florida State came up short in Friday night's contest against the Virginia Cavaliers, falling 46-38 in double overtime. This marks the first loss of the season for the Seminoles and a 0-1 start in conference play. They now see their ACC and College Football Playoff hopes take a hit while turning their attention to a pivotal rivalry game against Miami.
Several factors contributed to Florida State's struggles in this game. Virginia capitalized on two early turnovers to build a 14-0 lead. One of the miscues came when quarterback Thomas Castellanos had a pass deflected and intercepted at the Virginia five-yard line--a costly mistake on a drive where Florida State had moved the ball efficiently on the ground. Florida State eventually responded with 21 unanswered points courtesy of two Chandler Morris interceptions, before Virginia evened the score at halftime.
After Florida State placekicker Jake Weinberg missed a 45-yard field goal to begin the second half, the Seminoles found themselves playing from behind for the remainder of the game. Virginia followed the missed field goal with two lengthy scoring drives, consuming more than 14 minutes of possession. This momentum shift served as the turning point in the game. Although Florida State was able to force overtime, defensive breakdowns and costly mistakes ultimately sealed their defeat.
ADDED TAKEAWAYS
- Tony White's defense struggled to contain the Cavaliers' offense, which racked up 440 total yards and six touchdowns.
- The defense failed to keep contain, as Virginia quarterback Chandler Morris rushed for three touchdowns.
- Florida State was forced into three turnovers and two pivotal turnovers on downs. The Seminoles were a combined 9/20 on third and fourth downs and 5/7 in the redzone.
- The Seminoles committed five penalties for 49 yards, disrupting their rhythm in the opening stages.
- Florida State wide receiver Duce Robinson bobbled a controversial incomplete pass that would have resulted in a touchdown in double overtime.
- Optimistically, the Florida State offense tallied over 500 yards for the third straight game.