The Florida State Seminoles football team secured their first victory of the 2024 season with a hard-fought 14-9 win over the California Bears. This matchup was marked by numerous errors, penalties, and questionable decisions in special teams, yet the Seminoles managed to emerge victorious.
The Seminoles quickly established their dominance, scoring first and taking a 7-0 lead in the opening quarter—an uplifting moment for the team, as it marked their first lead since their season opener against Georgia Tech. The initial touchdown came courtesy of running back Lawrance Toafili, who powered through the Bears’ defense for a two-yard touchdown run.
In the second quarter, California responded with two field goals, each within 30 yards, narrowing Florida State’s lead to 7-6. The Seminoles struggled to maintain momentum, and both teams faced difficulties moving the ball effectively.
The third quarter was a battle of defenses, with neither team able to find the end zone. However, late in the quarter, the Bears’ kicker, Ryan Coe, made a significant impact by nailing a 51-yard field goal, briefly giving California a 9-7 advantage.
The lead was short-lived, as just four minutes into the final quarter, FSU quarterback DJ Uiagalelei found Ja’Khi Douglas for a pivotal 36-yard touchdown pass. This connection propelled the Seminoles back into the lead at 14-9.
As the game wound down, California made one final push against the Seminoles’ defense. They advanced to the Florida State 12-yard line, converting several long third and fourth downs along the way. However, a false start penalty and an incomplete pass put the Bears in a precarious position.
With the game hanging in the balance, the Seminole defense rallied for one last stand. Defensive coordinator Adam Fuller dialed up a blitz that proved decisive. Edwin Joseph broke through the Bears’ protection, sacking California quarterback Fernando Mendoza, marking the Seminoles’ seventh sack of the night and sealing their hard-fought victory.
In the end, Florida State’s resilience and defensive prowess carried them through a challenging game, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the season.