Eric Boggs 
Memphis upset Florida State, who fell to 0-3 on the season.
Memphis handed Florida State its third straight loss of the season, defeating the Seminoles 20-12 on Saturday. The Tigers improved to 3-0, powered by quarterback Seth Henigan, who threw for 272 yards and two touchdowns. Henigan’s performance extended his streak to 40 consecutive games with a touchdown pass, as he connected with Greg Desrosiers Jr. and Anthony Landphere to help Memphis build a commanding 20-3 lead by the third quarter.
Memphis’ offensive efficiency was key, with touchdown drives of 65 and 75 yards, and the Tigers converted crucial third- and fourth-down plays. Despite earning a $1.3 million guarantee and an important road victory against a Power 4 opponent, Memphis had to fend off a late Florida State rally. The Seminoles’ quarterback, DJ Uiagalelei, threw for 201 yards but struggled to move the offense consistently until the third quarter when two scoring drives brought them within striking distance.
With two seconds left, Florida State had one last chance, moving to the Memphis 39. However, Uiagalelei’s Hail Mary was batted down by Memphis defensive back Julian Barnett, sealing the Tigers’ victory.
For Florida State, the loss caps a disastrous 0-3 start to the season. The Seminoles committed three first-half turnovers, and despite being outplayed for most of the game, they were fortunate to trail by only 10 points at halftime. The defense kept the game close, but the offense sputtered, converting just 2-of-12 third downs and totaling only 238 yards, including a meager 37 rushing yards on 24 attempts.
Florida State had a chance to tie or win late after Memphis missed a 55-yard field goal. However, the Seminoles’ offense faltered again, with Uiagalelei taking back-to-back sacks, forcing a punt on fourth-and-32. Although FSU regained possession with under a minute remaining, they were unable to capitalize, and their final Hail Mary attempt fell incomplete.
The loss raises questions about FSU’s future, especially at quarterback. Uiagalelei was brought in to provide stability, but with the offense continuing to struggle and backup Brock Glenn waiting in the wings, head coach Mike Norvell may face a tough decision moving forward.
Additionally, Florida State’s offensive line remains a major concern. Memphis repeatedly blitzed, and the Seminoles couldn’t establish a ground game or protect their quarterback. With upcoming matchups against Cal, SMU, and Clemson, FSU’s path to bowl eligibility looks daunting. After finishing last season 13-0 and winning the ACC, the Seminoles now face the reality of potentially missing out on the postseason altogether unless a significant turnaround occurs.
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