Florida vs Florida State: Last-Second Field Goal Saves Gators from Worst Season Since 1979

The Florida Gators snatched a dramatic 20-17 victory from in-state rivals Florida State with a last-second field goal. The thrilling finish unfolded Saturday night at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville. This season finale carried massive implications for both storied programs.

Senior kicker Trey Smack became the hero for the home team. His clutch kick as time expired prevented Florida from matching its worst season in modern history.

Gators Avoid Historic Lows with Clutch Performance

Florida entered the rivalry matchup with a 3-8 record. Another loss would have equaled the program’s dismal 0-10-1 season from 1979.

Interim coach Billy Gonzales secured his first win after taking over in October. The victory provided a moment of celebration in an otherwise difficult season. Team morale received a significant boost from the dramatic finish.

According to ESPN, the Gators’ offense found rhythm when it mattered most. Quarterback DJ Lagway led critical drives in the fourth quarter to set up the winning score.

Seminoles’ Bowl Hopes Dashed in Heartbreaking Fashion

Florida State needed one more win to achieve bowl eligibility. The Seminoles finished their season at 5-7, falling just short of the six-win threshold.

The loss extends a disappointing streak for FSU. Their offense struggled to convert key third downs in the final quarter. This marked another close defeat in a season filled with narrow losses.

Quarterback Tommy Castellanos fought hard despite the outcome. His efforts throughout the season showed promise for the program’s future direction.

Rivalry Intensity Reaches Fever Pitch in Finale

The annual Sunshine State showdown lived up to its heated reputation. Both teams exchanged leads multiple times throughout the contest. Player emotions ran high from the opening kickoff.

The sold-out crowd at The Swamp created a deafening atmosphere. Florida students stormed the field following the game-winning kick. This tradition highlighted the moment’s significance for the Gator community.

Conference officials noted the clean nature of the intense rivalry game. Fewer penalties than expected occurred given the high stakes involved.

The last-second field goal secured Florida’s avoidance of a historic season low while crushing Florida State’s postseason aspirations. This dramatic conclusion ensures the rivalry’s intensity will only grow when these teams meet again next year.

Dropping this nugget your way

What was Florida’s record after this game?

Florida finished the 2025 season with a 4-8 record. This avoided matching their worst season from 1979. The team showed resilience in their final outing.

Is Florida State going to a bowl game this season?

No, Florida State’s loss eliminated them from bowl contention. Their 5-7 record fell short of the six-win requirement. The team will now focus on offseason improvements.

Who kicked the game-winning field goal for Florida?

Senior kicker Trey Smack made the decisive field goal as time expired. The kick secured the 20-17 victory for the Gators. His composure under pressure defined the rivalry moment.

How does this affect the Florida-Florida State rivalry?

The dramatic finish adds another memorable chapter to the storied rivalry. Florida avoided historical embarrassment at their rival’s expense. The intensity will certainly carry into next season’s matchup.

Why was Florida trying to avoid their worst season since 1979?

The 1979 team finished 0-10-1, the poorest record in program history. Florida’s 3-8 record entering the game threatened to equal that futility. The victory preserved some program pride.

What happens next for both football programs?

Florida begins an important coaching search during the offseason. Florida State will evaluate their roster and development needs. Both teams look toward spring practice for rebuilding.