Alabama Looks to Rewrite the Story Against Florida State
The Crimson Tide return to Saban Field at Bryant‑Denny Stadium on Saturday with a chance to erase the sting of last year’s 31‑17 loss to Florida State. That defeat, delivered 385 days ago at Doak Campbell Stadium, set the tone for a turbulent season. This time, Alabama arrives with a dramatically different roster, returning only two starters on offense and five on defense. The rematch offers a clear test of whether the program’s offseason overhaul has taken hold.
Revamped Defensive Front Shows Immediate Impact
Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack rebuilt his front seven after the unit struggled against physical offensive lines in 2025. Several former 5‑star prospects transferred out, prompting Alabama to aggressively reload through the portal. Additions such as Terrance Green, Desmond Umeozulu, Kedrick Bingley‑Jones, Devan Thompkins, and Caleb Woodson have already changed the defense’s identity. Through two games, Alabama has seven sacks after recording none in the first two weeks of 2025. Four came in last week’s comeback win over Kentucky, with Woodson and Thompkins delivering every sack and a key forced fumble.
The Tide have also dominated third‑down defense, allowing just one conversion on 23 attempts, and have produced two pick‑sixes. Early signs suggest this may be Alabama’s strongest defensive front in several seasons.
Daniels’ Mobility Could Challenge the Tide Again
Mobile quarterbacks have consistently troubled Wommack’s defenses, and Florida State senior Ashton Daniels fits that mold. Daniels threw for 259 yards and rushed for 108 in last year’s near‑upset while at Auburn, showing the kind of dual‑threat ability that forces Alabama into uncomfortable situations. For FSU to capitalize, Daniels will need steadier passing against one of the nation’s most experienced secondaries.
Russell’s Growth May Decide the Game Early
Alabama’s offense hinges on sophomore quarterback Keelon Russell, the highest‑rated recruit in program history. His talent is undeniable, but his inexperience has shown through two starts. Russell turned the ball over three times against Kentucky before rallying the Tide to 32 unanswered points. He has been effective as a runner and efficient in the short passing game, but Alabama still lacks a consistent downfield attack.
If Russell settles in early, he could exploit a Florida State defense allowing 351 passing yards per game. If not, the Seminoles may deliver their strongest performance of the season, fueled by motivation and opportunity.
Expect Both Teams’ Best Shot
Alabama players know the target on their backs. As defensive back Zabien Brown put it, teams treat every matchup with the Crimson Tide like a championship game. Florida State will arrive with confidence after last year’s upset, while Alabama seeks redemption with a new identity and a young quarterback ready to prove himself.
