Florida State (3-3, 0-3 ACC) and Stanford (2-4, 1-2 ACC) face off tonight at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto in the first-ever meeting between the two programs.
Florida State is still searching for its first ACC win after three straight conference losses, despite fielding one of the most explosive offenses in the country. The Seminoles rank 3rd nationally in total offense (536.5 yards per game) and 5th in scoring (44.2 points per game), combining balance and big-play capability.
Quarterback Tommy Castellanos has been the centerpiece, throwing for 1,365 yards and 9 touchdowns while rushing effectively when needed.
Running back Gavin Sawchuk leads a ground attack that ranks 5th in FBS (274.5 yards per game) with 352 yards and 6 touchdowns on the year. Receiver Duce Robinson provides downfield explosiveness with 443 yards and 3 touchdowns on 25 catches.
The offense also excels at extending drives, converting 54.4% of third downs — 6th-best nationally.
Defensively, Florida State has been solid though not elite, allowing 333.0 yards per game (44th in FBS) and 23.0 points per game. Their rush defense (116.3 yards allowed, 38th in FBS) could match up well against a Stanford team that has struggled to run the ball consistently.
Stanford, meanwhile, comes in looking to stabilize its season after a 34-10 loss to SMU. Quarterback Ben Gulbranson has thrown for 1,445 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions (59.2% completion), while top target C.J. Williams leads the Cardinal with 404 receiving yards and a touchdown. On the ground, Micah Ford has been the primary back with 400 yards and 3 scores, though the team averages just 92.7 rushing yards per game (128th in FBS).
Stanford’s defense has been inconsistent. Its run defense ranks 37th nationally (114.7 yards per game allowed), but its pass defense ranks 134th, giving up 303.7 yards per game. The Cardinal allow 30.2 points per game and have difficulty getting off the field, surrendering a 36.5% conversion rate on third downs.
Prediction
Given the disparity in offensive production and third-down efficiency, this might be the game Florida State needs to snap its ACC losing streak. Stanford’s home field may keep it close early, but Florida State’s speed and depth should ultimately separate them in the second half.
Projected Score: Florida State 38, Stanford 21
How to Watch Florida State vs. Stanford
Kickoff for Florida State vs. Stanford is set for 10:30 PM Eastern / 7:30 PM Pacific at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto, California.
The game airs live on ESPN and streams on the ESPN app and website.
If you’re a cord-cutter without an active livestreaming plan, you can watch the game for free by taking advantage of free trials from DIRECTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo TV, or YouTube TV.
YouTube TV even offers a 20-minute free preview, without having to register for a trial — if you just want to catch part of the game.
Florida State Seminoles vs. Stanford Cardinal
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Time: 10:30 PM Eastern / 7:30 PM Pacific
Venue: Stanford Stadium, Palo Alto, CA
TV: ESPN
Streaming: ESPN app and website
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