Photo credit- Abby Santos, FSU Creative
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida State and No. 19 SMU went back and forth Monday night in a heated ACC battle, but the Mustangs made the final play, escaping Doak Campbell Stadium with a 27-24 win.
At the center of SMU’s offense was fifth-year quarterback Kevin Jennings, who entered the season on several major quarterback award watchlists and gave Florida State’s defense problems throughout the night. This was an important first game for Jennings as he looked to set the tone for the season. After finishing last year with 3,641 passing yards and 26 touchdowns, he opened the season against Florida State on Monday night by completing 26 of 36 passes for 430 yards and three touchdowns. Jennings consistently attacked the Seminoles’ defense and created several explosive plays for the Mustangs. Even after throwing two interceptions, he stayed aggressive and continued making big plays.
His receivers also played a major role. Yannick Smith finished with five catches for 107 yards, including a huge 79-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter that gave SMU the 24-17 lead. In addition, Jalen Cooper added a 50-yard touchdown reception, while Randy Pittman Jr., a former Florida State player, caught five passes for 75 yards and scored against his former team.
On the otherhand, Florida State had playmakers of its own. Sophomore running back Ousmane Kromah continued his strong start to the season, rushing 22 times for a career-high 116 yards and a touchdown. His six-yard touchdown in the third quarter tied the game at 17, this score added to another strong performane from Kromah who has now rushed for more than 100 yards in back-to-back games.
Additionally, Quarterback Ashton Daniels rushed for 71 yards and a touchdown, while also throwing for 125 yards. His biggest throw came late in the fourth quarter when he connected with Samuel Singleton Jr. for a 39-yard touchdown, tying the game at 24.
Singleton showed his versatility throughout the game, contributing both on the ground and as a receiver. Duce Robinson and Jayvan Boggs also made catches for the Seminoles, but FSU struggled to consistently create plays through the air. While SMU averaged nearly 12 yards per pass attempt, Daniels was held to just 125 passing yards.
It was a physical and emotional battle, and although the Seminoles came away with a tough loss, several of their young playmakers showed they have the potential to become major pieces for FSU moving forward.
