For Seminoles to stop two-game slide vs. Pitt, they must clean up sloppy play

Florida State has dropped two games in a row by a combined 10 points — both decided by self-inflicted mistakes despite the Seminoles outgaining their opponents by 163 total yards.

As the losses mount, the focus shifts from production to precision. The metrics show that Florida State’s offense can move the football. The issue has been finishing drives with scores and protecting the football.

Can the 25th-ranked Seminoles (3-2, 0-2 in the Atlantic Coast Conference) fix their issues in time for Saturday’s noon home game against conference opponent Pittsburgh (3-2, 1-1).

Ball security has been a problem the past two games as the Seminoles committed a total of six turnovers.

Quarterback Tommy Castellanos thrown for five interceptions in the past three games. Two of led to two scoring touchdown drives against Miami. The Boston College transfer now has six touchdowns and five interceptions in five games.

Head coach Mike Norvell emphasized that improvement starts with execution: “With emphasis, there has to be application.”

Pressure has also been an issue. Miami recorded 42 total pressures and 36 quarterback hurries on 88 snaps, per Pro Football Focus — nearly one every two dropbacks. If right tackle Micah Pettus (leg) remains limited, Norvell and offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn could opt for additional blockers and quicker passing concepts to keep Castellanos upright.

Need for Faster Starts

Despite a high-scoring offense, the Seminoles have been getting off to slow starts. During the past two games, Florida State has only managed six first-half points.

When the offense finds rhythm, it’s efficient — as seen on a 19-play, 96-yard touchdown drive in the fourth quarter against the Hurricanes.

Simplifying early play calls could help.

Wide receiver Duce Robinson has been a playmaker for the Florida State offense. Getting Robinson involved early could get Florida State off to a stronger start.

Defensively, Florida State’s calling card has been stopping the run. No opponent has rushed for a touchdown at Doak Campbell Stadium in 11 straight games. Miami was held to a season-low 97 yards. Pittsburgh has a more balanced attack as it averages 131 rushing. The Panthers have four rushing touchdowns this season.

Red-Zone Efficiency

Florida State was a perfect 4 for 4 in red-zone attempts against Miami, but the offense needed long drives. Florida State boasts an offense that is ranked No. 12 nationally when it comes to total plays, but 44th in points per drive.

Saturday’s goals are straightforward. Protect the football, establish balance early, and reduce penalties.

If those adjustments hold, Florida State has the talent to leave Doak Campbell with a 4–2 record and renewed confidence heading into midseason play.

“This doesn’t define us,” Castellanos said after the Miami loss. “We’ve got to play the brand of football we know how.”

That brand — disciplined, clean, and composed — will be tested Saturday against Pitt.

This story was originally published October 10, 2025 at 9:39 AM.