The Florida State Seminoles and the SMU Mustangs will open their ACC season Monday night at 7:30 p.m. ET, battling at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida. It marks the first time the two programs have met in the Florida capital, and SMU currently holds a 1‑0 edge in the series.
Injury Overview
FSU will be missing several starters, including linebacker Blake Nichelson and wide receiver Devin Carter, both confirmed out with injuries. Defensive backs Karson Hobbs, Chuck Kennon and Jordan Crutchfield are also unavailable, while defensive lineman Darryll Desir and receivers Tae'Shaun Gelsey, K.J. Kirkland and Gavin Markey are listed as doubtful, each with a 25 percent chance of suiting up. In contrast, players such as Quindarrius Jones, Ashlynd Barker, Zay Parks, Amari Thomas, Bradyn Welch‑Joiner and Kevin Wynn are projected to be probable, with a 75 percent likelihood of participation.
SMU, meanwhile, faces its own set of absences. Offensive lineman Abel Hoopii is out, and the Mustangs will be without Ahmaad Moses, Jaden Miller‑Jones, Caden Marshall, Deuce Gilbert, EJ Kelly, Christia Rhodes, Link Rhodes and Kenneth Goodwin III. Wide receiver Daylon Singleton is listed as questionable, with a 50 percent chance of playing.
The matchup will be broadcast nationally, drawing attention to the early conference showdown and the impact of the injury carousel on both rosters. Coaches will have to adjust their game plans without key contributors, making the contest a test of depth and resilience as the Seminoles aim to reclaim the series lead.