Florida State QB Thomas Castellanos Fires Bold Shot at Alabama: “They Don’t Have Saban to Save Them”
Florida State quarterback Thomas Castellanos is making headlines ahead of the 2025 college football season with a bold statement that has set the college football world buzzing. In a recent interview with On3, the fiery and confident signal-caller didn’t hold back when asked about a potential matchup with perennial powerhouse Alabama.
“I’ve dreamed of playing against Alabama,” Castellanos said. “But this isn’t the same Alabama. They don’t have Nick Saban to save them. I just don’t see them stopping me.”
The comment, while brash, reflects a wave of confidence flowing through the Seminoles program. With Saban’s retirement shaking up the college football hierarchy and Alabama entering a new era under head coach Kalen DeBoer, many are wondering if the Crimson Tide will maintain the dominance they’ve had over the last two decades.
Castellanos, a dual-threat quarterback with explosive playmaking ability, transferred to Florida State after a breakout season at Boston College. Known for his elusive scrambling, deep-ball accuracy, and high football IQ, he has become the centerpiece of Mike Norvell’s offense. Now fully immersed in the program, Castellanos is looking to return the Seminoles to national title contention — and he doesn’t care who stands in his way.
His comments are already drawing reactions across the college football landscape. Some see it as unnecessary bulletin board material for Alabama, while others appreciate the moxie and competitive fire. Social media lit up with fans from both fanbases debating the merit of his words.
Alabama, for its part, has been adjusting to life without the legendary Saban, who retired after the 2024 season. New head coach DeBoer has inherited a roster full of blue-chip talent, but uncertainty remains about how the team will perform under a different philosophy and system. Still, doubting Alabama has historically proven dangerous.
Castellanos, however, isn’t afraid of the past.
“People are scared of the name, but we’re not playing the past,” he said. “We’re playing now. I trust our team, our staff, and what we’re building. When the lights come on, we’ll be ready.”
Florida State fans are rallying behind their quarterback, excited about the energy and belief he brings. After years of mediocrity following the Jameis Winston era, the ‘Noles appear to be on the rise again. Castellanos’ leadership could be the catalyst they’ve needed to return to college football’s elite.
Whether or not a matchup with Alabama is on the 2025 schedule, one thing is certain: Thomas Castellanos has put the Crimson Tide on notice. His confidence is infectious, his play electric, and his words—well, they may just light a fire under a rivalry that hasn’t even been played yet.
Only time will tell if Castellanos can back up his bold words, but one thing is for sure: college football just got a lot more interesting.
