Florida State's 2025 football season was one they’d probably like to forget, finishing with a 5-7 record. It was a surprising downturn, especially after they kicked off the season with a stunning win over the Alabama Crimson Tide. But the momentum didn't last, as they dropped seven of their final nine games.
Head coach Mike Norvell found himself in the hot seat. Many thought his tenure might end after a tough loss to Stanford, but the administration decided to give him another shot in 2026. Whether it was faith in his ability to recapture the magic of 2022 and 2023 or the daunting buyout cost, Norvell remains at the helm, with hopes of replicating the success they saw against Alabama.
The victory over Alabama was unexpected, even catching analysts like Paul Finebaum and Greg McElroy off guard. Their SEC leanings made it hard to envision a Florida State triumph.
But the Seminoles pulled it off with a 31-17 win, showcasing a defense that played with unmatched intensity. Defensive back Earl Little Jr., who has since transferred to Ohio State, was particularly impressive, playing like he had something to prove.
As for Alabama, wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams had a tough outing against the Seminoles. The buzz around the then-freshman was huge, with everyone marveling at his talent despite his youth.
But the game was a challenge for him, as he managed just five catches for 30 yards. The former five-star recruit struggled with drops, seemingly rattled by the Seminoles' defense.
Now a sophomore, Coleman-Williams is eyeing redemption in the upcoming season, eager to prove his critics wrong. The question remains: Can he bounce back against Florida State's potentially formidable secondary? The Seminoles’ defensive backfield could be a force if they continue to develop, posing a significant challenge for Coleman-Williams and the rest of Alabama's offense.