By Garin Turner
The Florida State Seminoles (4-4) hit the road for a pivotal ACC matchup against the Clemson Tigers (3-5) on Saturday at 7 p.m. ET on the ACC Network.
Last Game
Florida State snapped a three-game skid with an emphatic 42-7 win over Wake Forest on Nov. 1, reminding everyone what the Seminoles look like at full strength.
Quarterback Thomas Castellanos was nearly flawless, completing 12 of 16 passes for 271 yards and a touchdown while adding another score on the ground. Running back Samuel Singleton Jr. rushed 14 times for 91 yards and a touchdown, while Duce Robinson exploded for five receptions, 148 yards, and a touchdown in his best outing of the season.
What’s at Stake
For the Seminoles, a victory would mark their fifth of the season — putting them one step closer to bowl eligibility. A loss, however, would leave them with just three chances left to reach the six-win threshold.
Clemson, meanwhile, is trying to salvage a disappointing season and would love to play spoiler to a Florida State team still capable of finishing strong.
What to Watch For
The biggest question heading into Death Valley: Which version of Florida State will show up?
Will it be the team that opened 3-0, highlighted by its thrilling Week 1 win over Alabama — or the one that stumbled through a mid-season slump before rediscovering its rhythm last week?
If Castellanos maintains his efficiency and Florida State’s ground game continues to churn out yardage, the Seminoles’ top-ranked offense could present too much for Clemson to handle.
Key Stats
Passing: Thomas Castellanos — 1,878 yards, 10 TD, 5 INT
Rushing: Gavin Sawchuk — 93 carries, 432 yards, 8 TD
Receiving: Duce Robinson — 34 receptions, 689 yards, 4 TD
Team Breakdown
Florida State Offense
• Total Offense: 510.5 yards per game (1st in FBS)
• Passing: 269.3 ypg (28th)
• Rushing: 241.3 ypg (8th)
• Scoring: 40 points per game (7th)
Florida State Defense
• Total Defense: 316 yards allowed per game (26th in FBS)
• Passing: 202.9 ypg (43rd)
• Rushing: 113.1 ypg (28th)
• Scoring: 20.6 points allowed per game (33rd)
Prediction
Expect an offensive showcase in Clemson. Both teams can move the ball, but Florida State’s balance and explosiveness should be the difference down the stretch.
Final Score: Florida State 38, Clemson 35.
