Saturday is finally here, and the Florida State Seminoles are kicking off their 2026 season against the New Mexico State Aggies at Doak Campbell Stadium. FSU is itching for a 1-0 start, but don’t let the Aggies’ 0-4 record in Week 0 games since 2018 fool you. This isn’t a walk in the park, especially when you consider New Mexico State has been outscored 123-52 in those matchups. An upset would be huge for an Aggies squad coming off a disappointing season, and FSU’s recent 2-1 Week 0 record, including that massive win over Alabama last year, won’t protect them from these very real early-season challenges.
FSU’s O-Line Is a Wild Card, and Daniels Needs Protection
The biggest question mark for the Seminoles has to be that offensive line. They’re rolling out five new starters, and at least four of them are transfers. Yeah, Coach Herb Hand successfully pieced together an O-line through the portal last year, but that’s a tough trick to pull off twice in a row. This Saturday night is their first real test as a unit. Any struggles from them could be absolutely costly, especially with quarterback Ashton Daniels’ history of folding when he faces too much pressure. If they don’t click from the jump, it’s going to be a long night.
Ashton Daniels’ Accuracy and Mike Norvell’s Rustiness
Speaking of Ashton Daniels, FSU made a calculated risk bringing him in, banking on their ability to unlock his potential. The coaching staff has been praising him all through camp, but now it’s time for him to actually prove it on the field. The Seminoles desperately need him to be an effective passer, getting the ball to Duce Robinson and all those other talented receivers, while also making plays with his legs. The problem? He’s never been an accurate quarterback. If he has a bad day throwing, or makes some costly decisions, New Mexico State could absolutely capitalize and pull off the upset. Then there’s Mike Norvell. He’s back calling plays, a duty he handed to Gus Malzahn last year. Could he be a little rusty himself? Even with a talented roster, one bad play call can flip a game, and Norvell needs to find his rhythm fast.
TK King Is a Special Teams Nightmare
New Mexico State isn’t just showing up to roll over, they’ve got a legitimate weapon in TK King. He’s their top receiver, sure, but he’s also a serious threat in the return game. Last year, the dude averaged 19.5 yards per kick return and 8.6 yards per punt return, earning himself All-Mountain West First Team honors as a kick returner in 2024. A big return from him could change the entire momentum of the game in an instant. FSU’s special teams absolutely cannot allow him to break loose. And let’s not forget the ever-present danger of turnovers. FSU simply cannot afford to give New Mexico State extra chances.
This Saturday night at Doak Campbell Stadium, the Seminoles need to be locked in from the opening whistle. An upset loss in Week 0 can derail a season’s momentum before it even starts. Will the new offensive line gel, will Daniels deliver, and can Norvell find his play-calling rhythm? We’ll find out when the Aggies come to town looking to shock the world.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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