FSU's Castellanos 'stands on' Alabama criticism

Florida State quarterback Thomas Castellanos isn't backtracking from comments he made in June about Alabama not having legendary coach Nick Saban to "save them" ahead of their season-opening matchup.

"We stand on what I said," Castellanos told reporters at Wednesday's ACC Kickoff event, according to ESPN's David Hale. "I don't mean no disrespect to none of those guys at Alabama or anything like that. I have confidence in my guys and the work we've been putting in and preparing and the preparation we've been putting together."

Castellanos clarified that his comments were meant to energize Florida State, which posted a 2-10 record in 2024, with its only FBS win coming against Cal. The Boston College transfer is among many new faces in Tallahassee looking to turn around the Seminoles' fortunes. The program also bolstered its offense by adding receivers Squirrel White and Duce Robinson via the transfer portal.

"Them boys are coming off 2-10; I just wanted to instill some confidence," Castellanos said. "I'm trying to get my boys ready to go. I'm trying to make it the biggest stage."

While Castellanos' goal was to boost his new teammates, he also provided bulletin board material to the opposition.

"I definitely noticed it," Alabama linebacker Deontae Lawson said at SEC media days, per AL.com's Matt Stahl. "How can you miss it? But yeah, I don't really have a response. I said earlier, all disrespect will be addressed accordingly, and I stand on that right there."

Florida State hosts Alabama in its season opener on Aug. 30.