Florida State QB Thomas Castellanos Calls Out Alabama: ‘No Nick Saban to Save Them’
New Florida State quarterback Thomas Castellanos stirred some attention in an exclusive interview with On3’s Pete Nakos, particularly with his comments about Alabama ahead of their Week 1 matchup.
Castellanos made it clear he doesn’t view Alabama as the same powerhouse without Nick Saban at the helm, and he’s eager to show what he and the Seminoles can do against the Crimson Tide on such a big stage.
“I’m excited, man,” Castellanos said in the interview. “I don’t know if people realize this, but if you go back and watch every first game I’ve played, we always start fast. I’ve dreamed of moments like this. I’ve dreamed of playing against Alabama. They don’t have Nick Saban to save them. I don’t see them stopping me.”
Castellanos started his college career at UCF before transferring to Boston College. After a turbulent period of coaching changes that saw him play under three different head coaches in as many years, Castellanos chose to transfer again, this time to Florida State, where he reunites with his former UCF head coach Gus Malzahn, who is now the Seminoles’ offensive coordinator.
Over the course of his career, Castellanos has a 58.6% completion rate, throwing for 3,689 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions in 26 games. As a dual-threat quarterback, he’s also rushed for 1,427 yards and 15 touchdowns. Florida State will likely look to use his mobility to their advantage in Malzahn’s offense.
Alabama’s program will undoubtedly be different without Saban, who retired after the 2023 season following six national championships and a 201-29 record. His departure has left a significant gap, but Alabama is doing its best to adapt under new head coach Kalen DeBoer. In DeBoer’s first season, Alabama went 9-4, missing out on the College Football Playoff, but there were still signs of potential, like their victory over Georgia.
Meanwhile, Florida State is looking to rebound from a disappointing 2-10 season after winning the ACC the year before. The Seminoles struggled with quarterback instability, but Castellanos is confident he can provide the stability the team needs. It’s his third school, and he feels ready to unlock his full potential.
Clearly, Castellanos is eager for his opportunity, and Alabama will certainly take note of his comments. The two teams won’t have to wait long to settle the score, as Florida State will host Alabama on August 30th to open the 2025 season.
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