Florida State Seminoles clinched the ACC Championship title with a 16-6 victory over Louisville in a game defined by its defensive dominance. The Seminoles, now 13-0 for the season, secured their place in the College Football Playoffs, marking their third win over a Top 25 team this year and their second over a Top 15 opponent.
Despite starting true freshman quarterback Brock Glenn due to injuries to their previous starter, the Seminoles’ defense stepped up in a major way. They held Louisville to just two field goals and a total of 188 yards, sacking the Cardinals’ quarterback seven times and making 14 tackles for loss. Defensive tackle Braden Fiske was instrumental, leading the team with nine tackles, including three sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss.
Lawrance Toafili was named the Most Valuable Player of the game, sparking the Seminoles’ offense when utilized in the wildcat formation. He rushed for 118 yards on ten carries, including a 73-yard run that set up Florida State’s only touchdown. Glenn, though struggling offensively with 55 passing yards, managed the game without committing any turnovers.
This victory gave Florida State its 16th ACC title and further solidified its case for a College Football Playoff berth. The Seminoles also ended the season with eight wins over bowl-eligible Power 5 teams, the most in the country. Their dominant defense this season ranks high nationally in various categories, including pass breakups, fewest turnovers, and scoring defense.
Looking ahead, Florida State will face Georgia in the Orange Bowl on December 30, aiming to extend their 19-game winning streak, the second-longest in the program’s history.