After a challenging 2024 season that saw the Florida State Seminoles finish with a 2-10 record, the worst for a preseason top-10 team in history, the 2025 season is shaping up to be a pivotal one for head coach Mike Norvell and his squad. With a revamped Doak Campbell Stadium and a schedule packed with high-stakes matchups, FSU fans are eager for a rebound. Let’s dive into the full 2025 Florida State football schedule, breaking down each game, its significance, and what to expect as the Seminoles aim to restore their reputation in college football.
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The 2025 Schedule Breakdown
The 2025 season kicks off with a bang and features a mix of marquee non-conference games, critical ACC battles, and a manageable early slate to build momentum. Here’s the full schedule, with dates, opponents, and key details:
- August 30: vs. Alabama Crimson Tide (Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL)
The season opener is a blockbuster, as FSU hosts the Alabama Crimson Tide in the newly renovated Doak Campbell Stadium. This marks the first time Alabama will play in Tallahassee, part of a home-and-home series announced in 2019. With Alabama under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, this game is a chance for FSU to make a statement against a college football powerhouse. Expect a raucous atmosphere as the $265 million stadium upgrades debut. - September 6: vs. East Texas A&M Lions (Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL, 12:00 p.m., ACC Network)
Week 2 brings an FCS opponent, the East Texas A&M Lions (formerly Texas A&M-Commerce), to Tallahassee. FSU is paying $450,000 for this matchup, which should serve as a tune-up game. The Lions, with a 6-15 record over the past two FCS seasons, are unlikely to pose a significant threat, giving FSU a chance to build confidence. - September 13: BYE
An early bye week provides a breather after the Alabama game, allowing the Seminoles to regroup and prepare for the next stretch. - September 20: vs. Kent State Golden Flashes (Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL)
FSU faces Kent State, a MAC team, in another home game. This will be the first meeting between the two programs, and it’s another opportunity for FSU to fine-tune their game plan against a less formidable opponent. - September 26: at Virginia Cavaliers (Scott Stadium, Charlottesville, VA, 7:00 p.m., ESPN)
The ACC schedule begins with a Friday night road game against Virginia. FSU holds a 15-4 all-time record against the Cavaliers, including a 6-3 mark at Scott Stadium. This game marks the start of conference play and a chance to set the tone. - October 4: vs. Miami Hurricanes (Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL)
The annual rivalry game against Miami is always a highlight. As a protected ACC matchup, this game carries immense weight for recruiting and fan morale. FSU hosts the Hurricanes, looking to continue their dominance in Tallahassee, where they’ve won recent meetings. - October 11: vs. Pittsburgh Panthers (Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL)
Pittsburgh visits Tallahassee for the first time since 2020. FSU is 5-6 all-time against Pitt but won their last meeting in 2023. This game could feature the return of former FSU wide receiver Deuce Spann, adding intrigue. - October 18: at Stanford Cardinal (Stanford Stadium, Palo Alto, CA, 10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)
FSU makes its first-ever trip to face Stanford, a new ACC member. This late-night game will be the Seminoles’ first regular-season game in California since 1997. It’s a chance to showcase FSU’s brand on the West Coast. - October 25: BYE
A second bye week comes at a perfect time, allowing FSU to prepare for a tough November stretch. - November 1: vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL)
FSU hosts Wake Forest, a team they’ve dominated with a 31-9-1 all-time record, including 20-4-1 at home. The Seminoles won their last meeting in 2023, 41-16, and will look to keep that momentum. - November 8: at Clemson Tigers (Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC)
A trip to Death Valley to face Clemson is one of the toughest tests on the schedule. FSU leads the series 21-16 and snapped Clemson’s 25-game home ACC winning streak in 2023 with a 31-24 overtime victory. This game could have major ACC title implications. - November 15: vs. Virginia Tech Hokies (Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee, FL)
FSU hosts Virginia Tech for Senior Day, marking the third consecutive year the teams have met in Tallahassee. The Seminoles lead the series 14-6 at home and will aim to capitalize on home-field advantage. - November 21: at NC State Wolfpack (Carter-Finley Stadium, Raleigh, NC, 8:00 p.m., ESPN)
The second Friday night road game takes FSU to NC State, their first meeting since 2022. FSU leads the series 27-16 but has a tighter 11-10 record in Raleigh. This late-season game could be crucial for bowl eligibility. - November 29: at Florida Gators (Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Gainesville, FL)
The regular season closes with the rivalry game against Florida in Gainesville. After a disappointing loss in 2024, FSU will be hungry to reclaim bragging rights in this heated matchup.
What to Expect in 2025
The 2025 schedule offers a mix of opportunities and challenges. The Alabama game is a massive early test, but the softer matchups against East Texas A&M and Kent State should allow FSU to build momentum before ACC play. The road games at Stanford, Clemson, and NC State will test the team’s resilience, while home games against Miami, Pittsburgh, and Virginia Tech are critical for fan support and recruiting.
Mike Norvell, in his sixth year, is under pressure to deliver after the 2024 debacle. With new coordinators and a revamped roster through the transfer portal, FSU aims for a 7-5 or better record to restore confidence. The renovated Doak Campbell Stadium will provide a boost, but the team must show improvement on the field.
5 FAQs About the 2025 FSU Football Schedule
- What’s the toughest game on the 2025 schedule?
The opener against Alabama is arguably the toughest. Facing a storied program in a renovated Doak Campbell Stadium will be a massive challenge, but the Clemson road game is also a contender due to the hostile environment and ACC implications. - How does the 2025 schedule compare to 2024?
The 2025 schedule is considered slightly easier than 2024’s, with winnable games against East Texas A&M and Kent State early on. However, Alabama and road trips to Stanford, Clemson, and Florida keep it challenging. - Are there any new opponents for FSU in 2025?
Yes, FSU will face Stanford for the first time ever and East Texas A&M and Kent State, both of which are first-time matchups. - How many home games does FSU play in 2025?
FSU plays seven home games: Alabama, East Texas A&M, Kent State, Miami, Pittsburgh, Wake Forest, and Virginia Tech. This home-heavy slate is a big advantage. - Where can I watch the 2025 FSU games?
Confirmed broadcasts include East Texas A&M (ACC Network), Virginia (ESPN), Stanford (ESPN), and NC State (ESPN). Other games’ TV details will be announced closer to the season. Check ESPN or the ACC Network for updates.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 season is a chance for FSU to turn the page on a forgettable 2024. With a high-profile opener, a favorable home schedule, and key rivalry games, the Seminoles have a path to redemption. Fans are ready to pack the new-look Doak Campbell Stadium and cheer on a team looking to prove itself. Here’s to a season of rebuilding, rivalries, and Nole pride