Gators Dominate Seminoles 40-21, Eliminating FSU from Bowl Contention
Florida concluded its 2025 season with a resounding 40-21 victory over in-state rival Florida State, effectively ending the Seminoles’ hopes for a bowl game appearance. A record-breaking performance from running back Jadan Baugh, coupled with a stifling defensive effort, propelled the Gators to their fourth win of the season.
Baugh’s Historic Night Fuels Florida Victory
The game was largely defined by the dominant performance of Jadan Baugh, who finished with an impressive 266 rushing yards on 38 carries. His performance included a late-game touchdown that sealed the victory, breaking multiple tackles on fourth down with just :56 remaining. Earlier in the fourth quarter, a 12-yard touchdown run by Baugh was called back due to a holding penalty. Throughout the game, Baugh steadily climbed the program’s record books, reaching 237 rushing yards – the second-most in a single game in Florida history – and 198 rushing yards by the third quarter, ranking eighth all-time. He even recovered an onside kick attempt at FSU’s 46-yard-line, further shifting momentum in Florida’s favor.
Defensive Standouts and Key Plays
Florida’s defense played a crucial role in securing the win. Ben Hanks III sealed the game with an interception of Castellanos on the final play. The defensive front consistently pressured FSU quarterback Castellanos, forcing three-and-outs and disrupting the Seminoles’ offensive rhythm. Jayden Woods contributed early with a tackle for loss on FSU’s opening play, setting the tone for the game. A key moment came when Woods sacked Castellanos, leading to a missed 41-yard field goal attempt by FSU.
Game Recap: Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
The Gators started strong, taking a 10-0 lead in the first quarter after a 23-yard field goal – initially a touchdown catch by freshman Vernell Brown III that was overturned upon review. FSU responded in the second quarter with a touchdown by Castellanos, narrowing the gap to 17-14. However, a 9-yard touchdown pass from Lagway to Tony Livingston extended Florida’s lead to 17-7. An interception by Lagway briefly gave FSU momentum, but a fumble recovered by Florida quickly swung it back.
The third quarter saw Florida pull away, with a 22-yard touchdown run by Baugh increasing the lead to 31-14. Lagway then connected with Hayden Hansen for a three-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 24-14. Florida capitalized on a facemask penalty and consecutive runs by Baugh to reach the FSU three-yard line.
In the fourth quarter, Florida continued to control the game. A 54-yard field goal extended the lead to 34-14. FSU managed a late touchdown pass from Castellanos to McCoy to trim the lead to 34-21, but Baugh’s final touchdown run effectively ended any comeback hopes.
Looking Ahead
This victory marks the fifth game at the helm for Florida Interim HC Billy Gonzales, who has a combined record of 14-12 with the team following the Week 13 game against Tennessee. The win also continues Florida’s recent dominance in the series, having outscored FSU by 9.5 points per game and outgained them by 94.8 yards per game over the last six contests.
The Gators’ success this season, facing a program-record seven top-20 opponents, is a testament to their resilience and determination. With Baugh needing only 96 rushing yards to reach 1,000 for the season, the future looks bright for the Florida Gators’ running game.
