Alabama nonconference opponent names SEC transfer starting quarterback

A nonconference opponent on Alabama football's 2026 schedule, the Florida State Seminoles have officially named Auburn transfer Ashton Daniels as their starting quarterback.

The news was reported by On3's Pete Nakos on Tuesday afternoon, and was later confirmed via social media by an announcement from the team.

Coming from Auburn, Daniels is a quarterback that Alabama has already faced once before, doing so in the Crimson Tide's 27-20 Iron Bowl win a year ago inside Jordan-Hare Stadium. In the loss, Daniels completed 18-of-39 passes against Alabama's defense for 259 yards, one touchdown, and an interception, while also rushing for 108 yards on 23 attempts.

Alabama and Florida State are set to meet early in the 2026 season, facing off in Tuscaloosa on Saturday, Sept. 19.

This will be a rematch between the Crimson Tide and Seminoles from the 2025 season opener, a game which saw Florida State shockingly upset Alabama in Tallahassee, 31-17. Florida State's quarterback in that game was also a transfer addition making their first start as a Seminole in Thomas Castellanos, who completed 9-of-14 passes for 152 yards, while also rushing for 78 yards and a touchdown on 16 attempts.

Prior to that Florida State game, Alabama will also host East Carolina on Sept. 5, as well as travel to Kentucky for the SEC opener on Sept. 12.

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