The Atlantic Coast Conference powerhouses Florida State and Georgia announced that their scheduled home‑and‑home series will be replaced by a one‑off neutral‑site game slated for the 2028 season. The decision follows months of dialogue between the athletic departments and was confirmed by FSU athletics director Michael Alford, who cited the desire to create a marquee event that benefits both programs and their fan bases.
A rivalry reshaped
The two schools have met 13 times historically, with Georgia holding a 7‑4‑1 edge. Their most recent encounter came in the 2023 Orange Bowl, where the Bulldogs edged the Seminoles 35‑28 in Miami. Since that game, the programs have not faced each other in the regular season, the last such meeting dating back to 1965.
While the specific venue remains undecided, the list of potential hosts reads like a who’s who of college football hotspots: Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, Nashville, New Orleans, Orlando and Tampa. Each city offers a distinct atmosphere and logistical capacity, leaving the final choice open until a formal announcement is made.
Beyond the 2028 neutral‑site matchup, Florida State’s schedule includes nine ACC contests and culminates with a home game against the Florida Gators in Tallahassee. The Seminoles also retain two open nonconference slots, providing flexibility to fill gaps or arrange additional high‑profile games.
Brett McMurphy reported on the developments, emphasizing that the neutral‑site arrangement reflects a broader trend of marquee programs seeking fresh narratives while honoring tradition. Fans on both sides will await the eventual venue decision, which promises to add another memorable chapter to a rivalry that spans decades.