FSUs Comeback Just Took A Brutal Turn In The Backfield

FSU's promising lead against Alabama quickly shifted as star running back Samuel Singleton Jr. exited with a concerning injury, casting uncertainty on the Seminoles' season.

Florida State’s upset bid at Alabama took a hard hit in the third quarter when Samuel Singleton Jr. went down with what appeared to be a lower-body injury.

The Seminoles had already given No. 10 Alabama plenty to handle inside Bryant-Denny Stadium, jumping out to a 21-6 lead in the first half despite a long weather delay. But the Crimson Tide answered back and carried a double-digit lead into the fourth quarter.

Then came a jolt for Florida State on the opening drive of the third. Singleton Jr. made a 65-yard catch on third and long to push the Seminoles close to the end zone, but after rushing for no gain on the next snap, he headed to the sideline grimacing.

He was later taken into the medical tent, and shortly after that was seen returning to the locker room on crutches. The broadcast mentioned a potential knee injury.

Florida State has not issued an official update, but it looks unlikely Singleton Jr. will return Saturday. That would leave the Seminoles scrambling to replace one of their most versatile playmakers.

Before leaving, Singleton Jr. had rushed four times for 7 yards and caught two passes for 68 yards. He had been Florida State’s leading receiver through the first two games, piling up 16 carries for 66 yards and a touchdown against New Mexico State and SMU while adding six catches for 64 yards and two more scores.

Without him, Florida State will lean on Ousmane Kromah and Quintrevion Wisner. Wisner did not play in Week 1 and has one carry for no gain against Alabama. Kromah, meanwhile, has 15 rushes for 73 yards and a touchdown.

Singleton Jr. arrived at Florida State as a four-star prospect in 2023 and stayed put instead of transferring. His role grew as the 2025 season moved along, and he started two of the Seminoles’ final four games of the year.

Over four seasons in Tallahassee, Singleton Jr. has totaled 96 carries for 575 yards and five touchdowns, along with 10 receptions for 113 yards and two more scores. He also owns both of Florida State’s longest kickoff returns over the last two years, including a touchdown against Duke in 2024.

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