The 2026 college football season kicks off in Tallahassee with both Florida State University and Florida A&M University hosting their first games on August 29, drawing crowds that could exceed 80,000 and prompting city officials to brace for traffic disruptions.
For the Seminoles, head coach Mike Norvell enters his third year under intense scrutiny after back-to-back losing campaigns, the first such stretch since 1975-76. A revamped roster featuring transfers such as quarterback Ashton Daniels, offensive tackle Xavier Chaplin and wide receiver Duce Robinson has raised preseason expectations, even as the team was slotted 11th in the ACC poll.
A New Era in the Capital
Across town, the Rattlers have appointed alumnus Quinn Gray to reverse a program that has endured its first losing season in eight years. Gray’s mandate is amplified by the university’s postseason ineligibility, a sanction triggered by an Academic Progress Rate that fell below the 930 threshold.
Despite being ranked fourth in the SWAC preseason poll, Gray is focused on raising FAMU to the top of both HBCU and FCS circles, a goal that will be tested by a slate that includes a road trip to Miami, the national runner-up, and rivalry games against Jackson State and Bethune-Cookman.
The Rattlers’ schedule also features a home game against Albany State and a conference clash with Jackson State, while the broader Florida Classic against Bethune-Cookman promises another marquee attraction for the city’s passionate fan base.
City officials have warned that the surge of visitors could strain roadways, but the excitement remains high as both programs aim to turn the page on recent setbacks and write new chapters in Tallahassee’s football lore.