Florida State Holds Off New Mexico State 34-17: Seminoles Survive Scare, Aggies Show Promise
In a game that was closer than the final score suggests, Florida State secured a 34-17 victory over New Mexico State on Saturday. The Seminoles, who entered as heavy favorites, never trailed, but the Aggies kept the pressure on, staying within 10 points until the final four minutes. It was a one-yard touchdown run with 4:01 remaining that capped a 90-yard drive and finally put the game out of reach for Florida State.
New Mexico State’s quarterback, Trey Hedden, was a bright spot for the Aggies, throwing for 272 yards and two touchdowns, accounting for the majority of their 319 total yards. The Aggies showed resilience, responding to Florida State’s scoring drives with touchdowns of their own. However, a critical interception by Quindarrius Jones in the end zone on New Mexico State’s opening possession was a major positive for the Seminoles’ defense, though the secondary will face significantly more dangerous passing attacks later in the season.
The game was a tale of two halves in terms of momentum. Florida State led 17-7 at halftime and maintained a 10-point advantage after New Mexico State pulled within 27-17 with 7:42 remaining. The Seminoles’ offense was efficient, with a seven-play, 60-yard touchdown drive in the second quarter to take a 10-0 lead, and a 12-play, 51-yard drive in the third quarter that ended with a two-yard rushing touchdown, making it 24-10. Despite the loss, New Mexico State showed they could hang with a top-tier program, but ultimately, Florida State’s depth and experience proved too much. The win improves Florida State’s record, while New Mexico State will look to build on the positives from this competitive outing.
Shimanta Das 
