In a long-awaited moment of triumph, Florida State football secured its second win of the season with a dominant 41-7 victory over Charleston Southern at Doak Campbell Stadium. Before a homecoming crowd of 43,711, the Seminoles finally broke a two-month drought without a win, showing flashes of potential behind the poised performance of first-time starting quarterback Luke Kromenhoek.
The 41 points were the most scored by Florida State (2-9) this season, marking the team’s highest output since a 58-13 rout of North Alabama in 2023. This victory snapped an eight-game losing streak, with the Seminoles’ last win coming in a 14-9 defensive battle against California on September 21.
Earning his first career start, Kromenhoek delivered a steady and efficient performance, completing 13 of 20 passes for 209 yards and three touchdowns. He orchestrated an offense that looked revitalized, breaking through scoring barriers that had plagued the team throughout the season.
Backup quarterback Brock Glenn also saw action in the fourth quarter, completing all three of his passes for 31 yards, as the Seminoles sealed their most complete offensive performance of the year.
After a scoreless first quarter, Florida State ignited its offense in the second, scoring 17 points—their highest-scoring quarter of the season. The breakthrough came on a 25-yard field goal by Ryan Fitzgerald after a promising drive stalled in the red zone.
Momentum shifted further when FSU capitalized on a Charleston Southern punt-return fumble, setting up Kromenhoek’s first touchdown pass: a four-yard shovel pass to tight end Amaree Williams. The scoring continued as running back Caziah Holmes powered into the end zone from three yards out, giving FSU a 17-0 lead at halftime.
The Seminoles wasted no time extending their lead in the third quarter. On the first play of the half, Kromenhoek rolled out and connected with Ja’Khi Douglas for a 71-yard touchdown—the longest pass play of the season for FSU. The score marked a significant milestone as the team surpassed 21 points for the first time in 2024.
Kromenhoek added his third touchdown pass later in the quarter, finding Hykeem Williams in the end zone. Holmes capped the scoring for FSU with his second touchdown of the game, finishing with 38 rushing yards on just three carries.
Charleston Southern managed a late touchdown in the fourth quarter but failed to build on the momentum, despite recovering an onside kick. Florida State’s defense held firm, ensuring the Buccaneers wouldn’t threaten again.
The Seminoles outgained Charleston Southern 415 to 275 in total yardage, showcasing a balanced attack that complemented their best defensive outing since September. The team’s 17 first-half points eclipsed their total output in nine of their previous games this season.
Kromenhoek’s connection with his receivers—highlighted by Douglas’s explosive 71-yard touchdown—provided a glimpse of what the Seminoles’ offense could achieve with stability under center.
While Florida State’s season has been marred by struggles, this win offered a glimmer of hope as the team prepares for its final game of the season. Kromenhoek’s strong debut and the team’s offensive awakening provide a foundation to build on for the future.
For the Seminoles and their fans, this homecoming victory was a welcome reprieve—a reminder of the program’s potential to rise again.
