The recent fan‑voted ranking of Florida State Seminoles football games offers a snapshot of the moments that have shaped the program’s storied legacy. Over nearly nine decades the team has logged 898 games, and each era has produced contests that still echo through Tallahassee and beyond.
A dramatic clash with Notre Dame
At No. 30, the Seminoles edged No. 5 Notre Dame 31‑27 in 2014. The victory was steeped in controversy, as a late officiating decision swung the momentum, but the defense held firm to preserve a win that cemented the team’s resilience on a national stage.
A breakout victory over LSU
No. 29 marks a decisive 45‑24 triumph over LSU in 2023, a game that signaled a turning point for head coach Mike Norvell. The offense exploded for five touchdowns, and the win not only secured a signature victory but also reignited optimism for the program’s future.
The Orange Bowl thriller
The 2016 Orange Bowl saw Florida State outlast Michigan 33‑32 in a heart‑stopping finish. A last‑second touchdown capped a roller‑coaster drive, delivering a narrative of perseverance that still fuels the fan base’s memories of that historic night.
Bobby Bowden's final bow
Bobby Bowden’s final game came in the 2009 Gator Bowl, where his squad defeated West Virginia 33‑21. The win served as a fitting tribute to a coaching legend whose influence remains woven into every facet of the program.
Devin Bush's pick‑six and the Miami upset
A 1993 showdown against Miami featured a defining moment when Devin Bush returned an interception for a touchdown, contributing to a 28‑10 victory. The win snapped a long‑standing skid and underscored the defensive prowess that would later characterize the program’s identity.
Mike Norvell's statement win
The 2023 win over LSU stood as more than a scoreboard triumph; it was a statement that the Seminoles could compete with traditional powerhouses under Norvell’s leadership. The performance sparked renewed recruiting momentum and reinforced the team’s aspirations for future bowl appearances.
The 1980 Pitt upset that put FSU on the map
In 1980, Florida State shocked No. 3 Pittsburgh 35‑22, a victory that introduced Dan Marino and the Seminoles to a national audience. The upset signaled the arrival of a program capable of challenging the established elite and set the stage for future successes.