FSU vs. No. 8 Alabama Preview & Score Predictions

·1 hr 8 min·5 clips

Herb Hand's offensive line unit must 'move some motherfuckers' for Florida State to have any chance against Alabama's defense.

The episode begins with a humorous warning and energetic introductions from former Florida State players. The hosts set the stage for the August 30th game at 3:30 PM in Tallahassee. They highlight the long offseason following Florida State's disappointing 2024 season. Injury updates are discussed, including Alabama defensive lineman Tim Keenan undergoing tightrope surgery and missing the game, right guard Jayden Roberts being questionable with a concussion, and running back Jam Miller being out. Florida State's wide receiver Squirrel White is confirmed healthy. The hosts analyze how these injuries could impact the game, particularly Alabama's offensive line and running back depth. They examine Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson's inexperience, noting he has thrown only 50 passes with no touchdowns in his college career. The discussion shifts to Florida State's offensive changes under new coordinators Gus Malzahn and Tony White, emphasizing the element of surprise. Three key strategies for a Florida State upset are presented: generating defensive line pressure with Daryl Jackson, leveraging Thomas Castellanos' rushing ability, and forcing at least two turnovers. The hosts debate the importance of Florida State's offensive line creating running lanes and the challenge of containing Alabama's receivers Ryan Williams and Jeremy Bernard. Score predictions are given, with two hosts picking Alabama 27-17 and one predicting 30-13. The episode ends with plans for post-game coverage and lighthearted banter about past seasons.

As heard by us

Florida State's new look, home setting, and need for a fast start give this Alabama preview its clearest thread.

Florida State-Alabama is framed as an early read on how quickly the Seminoles can turn a new offense, a changed roster, and Tony White's defensive ideas into something usable.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want to know whether Florida State's new look can make Alabama guess inside a rocking Doak Campbell Stadium.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Hear the Spear: FSU sports podcast