Florida State opens its season with a tough matchup against Alabama—on the road and in front of a hostile Crimson Tide crowd. For Alabama, scheduling high-level non-conference opponents has been a clear priority. Head coach Kalen DeBoer emphasized this when discussing their approach to the season.
“Look at our schedule this year. We're playing Florida State & Wisconsin - we're in to playing as many highend games as possible,” DeBoer said.
Florida State is coming off a disappointing 2–10 season, but they made a notable move in the transfer portal by acquiring Boston College quarterback Thomas Castellanos. In an interview with On3’s Pete Nakos, Castellanos made it clear he expects a turnaround for the Seminoles.
“And then the ACC. I feel like I tore the ACC up by my d**n self for the last two years, and now I'm with a squad. I hope people don't think that Florida State is going to be the same team it was last year because we have weapons. People can't just sit back in zone coverage and watch me,” Castellanos said.
He also opened up about a strained relationship with former offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien.
“Bill O’Brien and I butted heads early in the season. I got banged up a few games. We had a meeting, and it kind of blew up in my face. I did so much for that program, and I just wasn’t repaid the right way,” Castellanos stated.
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In a recent workout video, Castellanos was seen training alongside other college and pro players. Alabama transfer wide receiver Isaiah Horton was among them, and Castellanos didn’t hesitate to share his thoughts on the upcoming matchup.
“Oh, you play with Bama? Y’all boys gonna see. ...them boys coming off 2-10. I just had to install some confidence,” Castellanos told Horton.
Since arriving in Tallahassee, Castellanos has been vocal about his confidence and expectations. But if he doesn’t deliver early wins, both he and the program could quickly find themselves under intense scrutiny.