In a game that will be remembered for years in Charlottesville, Virginia’s Cavaliers pulled off a stunning upset over No. 8 Florida State, edging out the Seminoles 46–38 in double overtime. The performance delivered on drama, clutch plays, and momentum swings — and it could be defining for Virginia’s season.
Early Damage & Turnovers Set the Tone
The game began badly for Florida State. Two costly turnovers in the first quarter handed Virginia a quick 14–0 lead. The Cavaliers capitalized immediately, setting a tone of aggressive opportunism. Behind a rugged running attack and big playmaking, they kept their foot on the gas.
Florida State, to their credit, responded. They moved up the field with Duce Robinson as a consistent threat, and quarterback Tommy Castellanos put together drives that narrowed the deficit. By halftime, the game had swung back into balance.
Back-and-Forth Through Regulation
As the second half progressed, both teams traded blows. Virginia leaned on its rushing attack — J’Mari Taylor nearing 100 yards and key runs that kept drives alive. FSU’s offense didn’t relent: Castellanos showed dual-threat ability, passing crisply and scrambling when needed.
In the closing seconds of regulation, Florida State pulled off a gutsy fourth-down conversion to tie the game. The pressure was on, but they made the play — sending the contest into overtime.
Overtime Drama & The Closer
The first overtime saw both teams exchange field goals. But it was the second overtime where the story was written.
Virginia quarterback Chandler Morris kept his nerves steady. He drove the ball in and then scored a decisive 4-yard rushing touchdown to put the Cavaliers ahead. But he wasn’t done: after the touchdown, Virginia converted a two-point play to Trell Harris — making sure there was no room for another counterattack.
Florida State tried to answer. On a desperate fourth-and-12 from the 27-yard line, Castellanos launched into the end zone. But the throw was intercepted by Ja’Son Prevard, closing the door on any comeback attempt. The celebration was instantaneous. Thousands of Virginia fans stormed the field, reclaiming the turf in jubilation.
Key Players & Stats That Mattered
- Chandler Morris (Virginia): A dual-threat standout. He scored three rushing touchdowns and also threw for two more. He delivered when it counted.
- J’Mari Taylor (Virginia): Grounded control. He rushed for 99 yards and a score, helping Virginia dominate in time of possession especially in the second half.
- Tommy Castellanos (Florida State): Massive effort. He threw for 254 yards, rushed for another 78, and had multiple touchdowns. But two interceptions proved costly.
- Duce Robinson (Florida State): Stepped up as the receiving weapon, hauling in 147 yards and a touchdown — a consistent thorn in Virginia’s secondary.
Crucially, Virginia’s defense made a stand in the final overtime, forcing the game-sealing interception. That defensive play turned a wild night into a historic win.
What This Means for Both Teams
For Virginia, this is more than just an upset. It’s a statement. Their first home win over a top-10 team in two decades, delivered on national television, is a turning point. Coach Tony Elliott’s vision for the program feels more tangible than ever.
For Florida State, the loss stings. They had opportunities, they had talent, but in clutch moments, mistakes and a defense that couldn’t contain the ground attack cost them dearly. The Seminoles must regroup quickly — the ACC gauntlet looms large.
This result will echo beyond Week 5. Virginia gained confidence, momentum, and national attention. Florida State got a stark reminder: ranking and reputation can’t protect you when execution falters under pressure.
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