The 2024 season is quickly spiraling into disaster for the Florida State Seminoles. After a rough start to the year, the Seminoles (0-3, 0-2 ACC) suffered another blow with a 20-12 upset loss to the Memphis Tigers (3-0, 0-0 AAC) at Doak Campbell Stadium on Saturday. Despite being favored by 6.5 points, FSU could not overcome turnovers, penalties, and a lack of offensive rhythm, continuing their winless streak.
Florida State’s day started poorly, with running back Roydell Williams fumbling on the opening drive deep in their own territory, gifting Memphis excellent field position. The Tigers capitalized with a field goal after FSU’s defense, led by tackles for loss from Joshua Farmer and Marvin Jones Jr., held firm. Memphis maintained the lead for the rest of the game.
Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei struggled to find consistency, finishing 16 of 30 for 201 yards with one interception. Drops from the receivers and miscommunication plagued the Seminoles’ offense, stalling their drives and wasting key opportunities. Penalties also hampered FSU’s momentum, leading to multiple three-and-outs early in the game. Running back Lawrance Toafili provided a brief spark with a 24-yard rush, but the drive failed to convert into points.
On defense, the Seminoles had moments of brilliance, including a sack by Patrick Payton, but injuries added to their woes. Linebackers Justin Cryer and Cam Riley were both sidelined in the first half, with Cryer later returning while Riley remained in the locker room.
Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan took advantage of the Florida State defense’s struggles, connecting with wide receiver Roc Taylor on a 40-yard pass that set up a touchdown to Greg Desrosiers Jr., pushing the Tigers’ lead to 10-0. FSU kicker Ryan Fitzgerald finally got the Seminoles on the scoreboard with a 54-yard field goal, but the team’s problems mounted when wide receiver Lawanye McCoy muffed a punt, giving Memphis prime field position. The Tigers added a field goal before halftime, extending their lead to 13-3.
In the third quarter, Florida State showed signs of life with a huge 67-yard pass from Uiagalelei to Malik Benson. The play set up a four-yard rushing touchdown by Roydell Williams, cutting the deficit to 20-9 after a failed two-point conversion.
The Seminoles’ defense then provided another glimmer of hope when Justin Cryer intercepted Henigan. With momentum shifting, Benson and wide receiver Hykeem Williams made key receptions to drive Florida State into scoring range. Fitzgerald converted a 35-yard field goal, narrowing the gap to 20-12.
Despite the late surge, Memphis’ defense tightened up, recording two sacks on Uiagalelei in the final minutes to force a punt. The Tigers effectively ran out the clock, sealing the upset win and leaving Florida State searching for answers after another heartbreaking loss.
The Seminoles will look to turn things around when they host ACC rival Cal on September 21, but with an 0-3 record, the pressure is mounting in Tallahassee.