Petronella Newcomb

Written by Petronella Newcomb

Published: 27 Dec 2025

25-facts-about-florida-state-vs-houston
Source: Espn.com

Why is the Florida State vs. Houston matchup so captivating? This clash isn't just another game; it's a battle steeped in history, rivalry, and unforgettable moments. From nail-biting finishes to record-breaking plays, this matchup has it all. Fans from both sides eagerly anticipate each encounter, knowing that anything can happen when these two teams meet. Whether you're a die-hard Seminoles supporter or a Cougars enthusiast, there's always something new to learn about this storied rivalry. Buckle up as we dive into 25 fascinating facts that make the Florida State vs. Houston showdown one of the most exciting in college sports.

Table of Contents

Florida State vs. Houston: A Storied Rivalry

Florida State and Houston have a rich history in college sports. Their matchups have been filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. Here are some intriguing facts about this rivalry.

  1. Florida State University (FSU) and the University of Houston (UH) first faced off in football in 1960.
  2. The 1960 game ended in a 13-13 tie, setting the stage for a competitive series.
  3. FSU and UH have met a total of 17 times in football, with FSU leading the series 12-5.
  4. Their most recent football clash was in the 2015 Peach Bowl, where Houston triumphed 38-24.
  5. The 2015 Peach Bowl victory was Houston's first major bowl win since 1980.

Memorable Moments on the Field

The games between these two teams have produced some unforgettable moments. Here are a few highlights.

  1. In 1972, FSU defeated Houston 27-24 in a thrilling game that featured a last-minute field goal.
  2. The 1983 matchup saw FSU's defense dominate, leading to a 47-0 shutout victory.
  3. Houston's 1994 victory over FSU was notable for its high-scoring nature, ending 64-33.
  4. The 2015 Peach Bowl featured Houston's Greg Ward Jr. rushing for 67 yards and two touchdowns.
  5. FSU's Dalvin Cook rushed for 194 yards in the 2015 Peach Bowl, despite the loss.

Coaching Legends

Both schools have been led by some legendary coaches who have left their mark on the rivalry.

  1. Bobby Bowden, FSU's iconic coach, led the Seminoles from 1976 to 2009.
  2. Bowden's tenure included two national championships and 12 ACC titles.
  3. Houston's Bill Yeoman coached from 1962 to 1986, pioneering the veer offense.
  4. Yeoman was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2001.
  5. Tom Herman, who coached Houston from 2015 to 2016, led the team to the 2015 Peach Bowl victory.

Star Players

Many star players have taken the field in this rivalry, making significant impacts.

  1. FSU's Deion Sanders, a two-time All-American, played against Houston in the late 1980s.
  2. Houston's Andre Ware won the Heisman Trophy in 1989, the first African American quarterback to do so.
  3. FSU's Jameis Winston, who won the Heisman in 2013, led the Seminoles to a national championship.
  4. Houston's Case Keenum set NCAA records for career passing yards and touchdowns.
  5. FSU's Peter Warrick was a standout wide receiver, known for his electrifying plays.

Beyond Football

The rivalry extends beyond the football field, with both schools competing in various sports.

  1. FSU and Houston have faced off in basketball, with FSU leading the series 6-4.
  2. The schools have also competed in baseball, with Houston holding a slight edge in the series.
  3. FSU's track and field program has produced numerous Olympians, including Walter Dix.
  4. Houston's track and field program is renowned, with Carl Lewis and Leroy Burrell as notable alumni.
  5. Both schools have strong academic programs, with FSU ranked among the top public universities and Houston known for its research initiatives.

The Final Whistle

Florida State vs. Houston has given us some unforgettable moments. From thrilling comebacks to record-breaking performances, this matchup never disappoints. Both teams have rich histories and passionate fan bases, making every game a must-watch event. Whether you're a die-hard Seminoles supporter or a Cougars enthusiast, there's no denying the excitement this rivalry brings.

Remember, these games are more than just stats and scores. They’re about the spirit of competition, the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat. Each fact we've shared highlights the unique aspects that make this rivalry special. So next time these two teams face off, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the history and drama that unfolds on the field.

Stay tuned for more exciting matchups and keep cheering for your favorite team. Football season is always just around the corner!

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