Duke Stuns Florida State in Historic Loss on October 19, 2024
- Florida State suffered a historic loss to Duke, marking their first defeat against the Blue Devils after 22 consecutive victories.
- This loss contributed to the Seminoles' slide from an undefeated season last year to a disappointing 1-6 start this year.
- The team faces the possibility of missing a bowl game for the third time in five seasons if they don't improve their performance.
Florida State's football program has encountered unprecedented struggles, highlighted by a 23-16 loss to Duke on October 18, 2024. This defeat was particularly noteworthy as it marked the first loss in history against the Blue Devils, breaking a 22-game winning streak over them. The Seminoles' poor performance this season has shocked fans and analysts alike, considering their previous success when they finished last season 13-0. The game turned dramatically for Florida State during a disastrous first-half sequence that included a pick-six, a lost fumble, and an interception, which shifted their 3-0 lead to a 17-3 deficit in a matter of plays. This marked the first time in the 2024 season that any team turned the ball over in such quick succession, bringing significant momentum to Duke. At 1-6, the Seminoles face urgent challenges, including tough upcoming games against ranked opponents. Losing those could lead to them ending the season with a 4-8 record, significantly damaging their standing in college football. This predicament not only risks their bowl game participation but also raises questions about the direction of the entire program under current coach Mike Norvell. As Florida State aims to salvage the remainder of their season, the realization that this could be one of their worst seasons since 1975 looms large. The continued struggles of the team further complicate the landscape for their future prospects, exacerbated by a steep decline in performance and confidence.