Tallahassee, Fla. – November 1, 2025
In a decisive blow‑out at Doak Campbell Stadium, Florida State snapped a year‑long ACC win drought by dispatching Wake Forest 42‑7. The result serves as a turning point—and for Wake Forrest, a stark wake‑up call.
Game Narrative & Key Incidents
After a slow start that left the scoreless through the first quarter, the Seminoles found their rhythm just before halftime. A six‑yard rushing touchdown opened the scoring, followed by a ten‑yard run to make it 14‑0 at the half.
In the third quarter, FSU seized full control: a strip sack on Wake set up their next touchdown. A dominant fourth quarter saw two more scores within minutes, stretching the lead to 42‑0 before Wake finally got on the board with a late touchdown. The Deacons’ lone score came too late to matter.
Wake finished with just 247 total yards, while FSU piled up 421 yards and demonstrated superiority in execution, discipline and momentum.
Standout Performances & Tactical Breakdown
- FSU’s freshman quarterback delivered 271 passing yards on just 12 completions, and running back Samuel Singleton Jr. ran for 91 yards in his first career start. Their dual success underlines the offensive balance.
- Wide receiver Duce Robinson posted 148 yards and a touchdown on five catches—including highlight‑reel plays that shifted field position rapidly.
- Defensively, the Seminoles forced two turnovers, recorded four sacks and held Wake to just 85 rushing yards. Wake’s penalty troubles (11 for 93 yards) compounded the issues.
- On the flip side, Wake Forest’s offense cratered under pressure. Key play‑back runs were called back by holding penalties; quarterback Robby Ashford struggled to find the downfield rhythm; self‑inflicted errors—false starts, mishandled snaps—undermined drives repeatedly.
- Strategically, FSU mixed big‑play shots with methodical drives, kept Wake off balance, and exploited the turnovers that changed field position. Wake lacked consistent responses.
Implications for Both Programs
Florida State (4‑4, 1‑4 ACC): This win is far more than a confidence‑boost—it ends the first‑year conference drought and resets the narrative for a program amid transition. If they sustain this level of play, particularly on defense and with big‑play offense, the Seminoles may re‑enter relevance in the ACC race.
Wake Forest (5‑3, 2‑3 ACC): For the Deacons, the loss is a red‑flag. Entering off a positive stretch, they instead fell apart in execution across both sides of the ball. The offense has shown flashes this season, but the collapse under pressure here exposes deeper issues: discipline, protection, situational football. Their path ahead now demands immediate corrective action.
What to Watch Next
- FSU’s next stretch: Will the Seminoles build on this momentum? Upcoming games will test whether this was a rebirth or a one‑off performance.
- Wake Forest’s response: With tougher ACC challenges looming, the Deacons must tighten fundamentals, regain poise and salvage bowl‑eligibility.
- ACC dynamics: This game reshapes perception. FSU’s re‑entry as a threat and Wake’s stumble shift the league’s balance—and other contenders will take notice.
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t just a win: for Florida State it was a statement; for Wake Forest it was a cautionary tale. The Seminoles displayed commitment, explosiveness and discipline. The Deacons didn’t just lose—they unraveled. In an ACC where margins are thin, this game may mark a momentum shift.
Published by SportBuzzHub – Nov 1, 2025
