In their opening game of the season, Florida State delivered a strong performance, securing a decisive 34-17 win against New Mexico State. The Seminoles' offense was spearheaded by quarterback Ashton Daniels, who threw for over 200 yards and a touchdown, alongside running back Ousmane Kromah, whose impressive 115 rushing yards and a score solidified their lead throughout the game. This victory sets a positive tone for Florida State's upcoming season.
The Florida State Seminoles commenced their 2026 football season with a definitive 34-17 triumph over the New Mexico State Aggies. The contest, held in Tallahassee on Saturday, August 29th, saw Florida State maintain a lead from the outset. Quarterback Ashton Daniels, a transfer from Auburn, was instrumental in the win, completing 17 of 27 passes for 202 yards and a touchdown, despite throwing one interception. Running back Ousmane Kromah further boosted the Seminoles' offense with 115 rushing yards, including a crucial 1-yard touchdown run that extended their lead late in the fourth quarter.
Florida State's offensive prowess was evident in their total yardage, accumulating 419 yards compared to New Mexico State's 319. The Seminoles initiated scoring with Gabe Panikowski's 43-yard field goal in the first quarter, followed by Daniels' 4-yard touchdown run early in the second, establishing a 10-0 advantage. Although New Mexico State managed to get on the scoreboard with Trey Hedden's 33-yard touchdown pass to Brodie Malone-Bradford, Florida State responded with a 58-yard drive culminating in a 4-yard touchdown pass from Daniels to Samuel Singleton Jr., bringing the halftime score to 17-7.
New Mexico State attempted a comeback in the third quarter with Ilya Uvaydov's 38-yard field goal, narrowing the gap to 17-10. However, the Seminoles quickly countered with a 51-yard touchdown drive, capped by Singleton's 2-yard run. Panikowski added another field goal in the final quarter, extending Florida State's lead. Despite a late touchdown pass from Hedden to TK King for New Mexico State, the Aggies struggled to establish a strong rushing attack, managing only 47 yards. Both teams incurred penalties, with New Mexico State committing eight for 68 yards and Florida State seven for 65 yards.
The Seminoles' dominant performance in their season opener highlights their potential for the season. With strong contributions from key players like Daniels and Kromah, and a robust overall team effort, Florida State demonstrated its ability to control the game and secure a convincing victory against a determined opponent.
