Florida State football will open its 2026 preseason schedule with a much‑anticipated scrimmage on August 4 inside Doak Campbell Stadium, the same venue where the Seminoles endured a rain‑soaked season a year ago.
The session marks the first opportunity for the team to test a revamped defense led by coordinator Tony White, who has installed a 3‑3‑5 scheme designed to pressure opposing offenses.
Quarterback Ashton Daniels, who was recruited to replace the departed starter, will take the first game‑like snaps of his collegiate career, giving coaches a live read of his arm and decision‑making.
Leadership and Competition
Coach Austin Tucker, who oversees the quarterbacks, has said he expects to see "continued leadership" from Daniels and the other signal‑callers as they navigate the pressure of a full‑speed practice.
Behind Daniels, redshirt freshman Kevin Sperry and JUCO transfer Malachi Marshall are battling for the QB2 role, a competition that could shape the depth chart heading into the regular season.
Defensive Overhaul
White’s defensive philosophy emphasizes speed and versatility, and the new 3‑3‑5 alignment will feature linebackers such as Chris Jones and freshman Izayia Williams, who are expected to anchor the front.
Running backs coach Kam Martin has urged his unit to be aggressive in pass protection, while veteran Ousmane Kromah praised the influx of new linebackers, noting that competition will push the group to improve.
The scrimmage on August 4 is the first of three planned inside Doak Campbell Stadium, with another set for August 9 after a brief stint of practice in Jacksonville, giving the Seminoles a chance to fine‑tune before the season opener.