Turnover Turmoil: How FSU’s Costly Mistakes Sparked an Unforgettable ACC Showdown with UVA

Friday night’s clash between No. 8 Florida State and Virginia didn’t just open the ACC schedule—it launched a full-blown rollercoaster of a gridiron battle. Turnovers set the tone early, painting a chaotic portrait where mistakes turned into scoring chances for both squads. Virginia jumped out with a swift 14-0 advantage, riding the momentum from Florida State’s early miscues. But the Seminoles weren’t about to fold; led by standout defensive plays, they clawed back to not just level the score but seize a 21-14 lead. The half closed with the teams locked up 21-21, each side wrestling momentum in a game that promises plenty more fireworks. As Florida State aims to keep its unbeaten streak alive and dodge their first ACC loss, this showdown is shaping into one for the ages. LEARN MORE

Turnovers by both teams defined the first half of the Florida State vs. Virginia game.
Virginia initially took a 14-0 lead by capitalizing on Florida State’s mistakes.
Florida State responded with two takeaways, leading to scoring drives that put them ahead 21-14.
The game was tied 21-21 at halftime following a late touchdown by Virginia.

It has been a wild Friday night for No. 8 Florida State football in its first road game and ACC opener against Virginia.

The story of the first half was both teams capitalizing turnovers.

At first, it was all UVA taking advantage of the Seminoles’ errors. A Gavin Sawchuk fumble and then a Tommy Castellanos interception pass would lead the Cavaliers to a 14-0 lead.

Halfway through the second quarter, the Seminoles turned the tables with two big takeaways by safety Edwin Joseph and linebacker Elijah Herring. It would set two scoring drives for the offense to not only even score but also take its first lead of the night at 21-14.

With two different momentum swings, the game is tied at 21 at halftime. FSU is looking to avoid its first loss of the season and go 0-1 in ACC play.

Castellanos completed 8 of his 14 passes for 106 yards and one pick. He also had a rushing TD on a QB keeper that gave FSU the lead. Wide Receiver Duce Robinson reached the 100-yard mark on five catches.

UVA’s RB J’Mari Taylor scored on the last drive to tie the game and has 59 rushing yards.