Florida State’s 2024 began with a glimmer of hope that slowly faded over the course of the season-opening loss to Georgia Tech – the first in a series of self-inflicted, sloppy, ugly performances from the Seminoles on the field this season.

It was only fitting that the finale followed that familiar script, with FSU squandering any chance at an upset by committing turnover after turnover and continually finding itself in uncontrollable down-and-distance situations. Three fumbles were lost on offense, two of which wiped out promising Florida State drives that could have scored points, and the third gave Florida its first touchdown of the game. A fumble was lost on special teams, allowing the Gators to easily make a field goal to prevent FSU’s own field goal on the drive before. Eight sacks, 14 tackles for loss allowed.

Although there is nothing to play for other than pride and bravado, even after seeing it in the world nine more losses that the Seminoles have suffered this season, The frustration over how Florida State continually shot itself in the foot and fell out of contention was still as strong as it was on that first day of play in Dublin. The emotions of a rivalry battle do not completely subside

The Gators had no qualms about embracing the constant handouts (Florida State’s four turnovers were the most since the Rose Bowl against Oregon in 2015) and the layups of drives (14 yards for a touchdown, zero for a field goal) by a duo of To supplement touchdowns and turnovers. Achieving drives over 80 yards.

Florida State, meanwhile, squandered a 68-yard drive with a fumbled throw to Kam Davis on the goal line (2022 LSU, anyone?) and a 50-yard drive when Lawrance Toafili, fighting for a first down, recovered a fumble on the Goal line lost UF 29 yard line. The Seminoles’ touchdown-saving interception in the second quarter led to a drive that lasted just five plays and gained 11 yards, underscoring just how tough it was any FSU’s offensive production has increased this season.

The Seminoles managed to save some face with a too little, too late touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter. They converted a two-point conversion attempt but failed to recover the onside kick attempt, but then promptly allowed the Gators to add to their touchdown total by giving up consecutive explosive runs to Jaden Baugh – who averaged one of 8 yards per carry, still somehow less than Montrell Johnson Jr.’s average of 9.9.

With the loss — long before it actually happens — Florida State completes its third losing season in five years under head coach Mike Norvell. The loss, his first to Billy Napier, drops him to 2-2 against the Gators during his tenure.

The Seminoles will next play in 2025 on Saturday, August 30 against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Doak Campbell Stadium.