Paul Finebaum Names College Football Program That's 'Potentially a Really Serious Team'

"I thought (Thomas) Castellanos made a big mistake when he ran his mouth," Finebaum said. "In the end, I think he knew what he was doing. I like the Seminoles right now. I think they're potentially a really serious team."

Thomas Castellanos Delivers After Bold Words

Finebaum is referring to the comments Castellanos made going into the game against Alabama. He spoke with On3, where he referenced former legendary Alabama head coach Nick Saban.

"I’m excited, man," Castellanos said. "People, I don’t know if they know, but you go back and watch every first game that I played in, we always start fast. I dreamed of moments like this. I dreamed of playing against Alabama. They don’t have Nick Saban to save them. I just don’t see them stopping me."

He had an impressive performance, completing 9-of-14 passes for 152 yards, and also carrying the ball 16 times for 78 yards and a touchdown. His team began the game strongly, leading 17-7 at halftime. In his second game, he continued to shine, passing 8-of-11 for 237 yards and throwing three touchdowns in the Seminoles' blowout victory. As a result, his odds for winning the Heisman Trophy have moved just outside the top 10.

Favorable Schedule Ahead

Florida State may only be two weeks into the season, but they’ve already flipped the national conversation. With Castellanos gaining steam in the Heisman race and Finebaum conceding the Seminoles are "potentially a really serious team," the path is wide open for FSU to chase its first playoff berth in more than a decade. Their next chance to prove it comes after the bye, when they return against Kent State.