In a highly anticipated rematch, the Florida State Seminoles will face the Alabama Crimson Tide as part of their home-and-home series. The game, scheduled for September 19, 2026, comes with significant implications for both teams, especially after their previous encounter in August 2025, where Florida State emerged victorious with a score of 31-17.
As the new season unfolds, Florida State enters with a fresh offensive coordinator, Tim Harris Jr., while Alabama is dealing with its own uncertainties, particularly with a quarterback competition heating up. The Seminoles will see Kevin Sperry, Ashton Daniels, Dean DeNoble, and Malachi Marshall competing for the starting quarterback role. Meanwhile, Alabama is looking to fill the void left by former quarterback Ty Simpson, who has moved on to the NFL. This situation has left both programs with questions to answer as they prepare for the clash.
In Tuscaloosa, Austin Mack and Keelon Russell are anticipated to share playing time under center for Alabama. The stakes of this matchup are high, as analysts predict that a loss could place either coach in a precarious position. According to ESPN analyst Harry Lyles Jr., this game is a “must-see,” especially considering the rich histories of both programs. He noted, “A loss for either the Seminoles or the Crimson Tide will put their coach firmly on the hot seat, assuming both teams enter this game 2-0.” Lyles expressed confidence in both Kalen DeBoer of Alabama and Mike Norvell of Florida State but acknowledged the intense pressure that comes with the territory.
The matchup is expected to be a physical and intense contest, a true slugfest as both teams aim to assert their dominance on the national stage once more. In addition to the Alabama-Florida State game, ESPN”s Andrea Adelson is also keeping an eye on the Miami Hurricanes, who are coming off a national title run and will be looking to maintain their championship contender status despite significant losses to the NFL Draft.
As the 2026 season approaches, Miami”s coach, Mario Cristobal, has built a strong roster through consistent top recruiting classes and strategic additions from the transfer portal. With returning talent like Malachi Toney and Mark Fletcher Jr., along with new players such as Darian Mensah and Damon Wilson II, the Hurricanes aim to emerge as a formidable force in college football.
Florida State will take on Alabama in a matchup that could define the trajectory of both teams this season, with a subsequent game against Miami later in October at Doak Campbell Stadium. The excitement around these contests highlights the stakes involved for both teams and their respective coaching staffs.
