What a Night in Scott Stadium: My Experience at UVA vs. FSU

Friday night in Charlottesville was one of those nights I’ll never forget. From the moment we parked at Fontaine and hopped on the shuttle, everything about the experience felt special. The ride in was smooth and easy, and the best part? Sitting in the back with Jay, his son Jayton, my son Mason, and getting the chance to talk with a couple of listeners of our podcast. Sharing stories with people who tune in to our show made the night feel personal before we’d even stepped into the stadium.

After linking up with our friend and Cavalier Connection writer Steve Brindle at his tailgate, we headed toward our seats in the 500s — or so we thought. On the ramp, a UVA staff member stopped us and asked if we wanted to move down to the lower bowl. The goal was to pack the bottom sections and give fans the ultimate experience. We gladly said yes and ended up in Section 109, Row N. The seats were amazing… even if we were surrounded by a sea of FSU fans.

The Roller Coaster Begins

Virginia punted on its first possession, which brought a little nervous energy. But when the defense forced a punt right back, hope started to build. A touchdown drive, followed by a fumble recovery and another score, had Scott Stadium rocking with a 14–0 lead. Even when another FSU fumble was overturned, the place was electric.

That joy quickly turned to frustration as FSU scored 21 straight points. Confidence among the orange and blue faithful dipped, and the Seminole fans around us made sure we heard about it. But the Hoos weren’t done. Chandler Morris threaded a risky throw that looked like a pick 6 coming, but turned into a big gain, and then J’Mari Taylor rumbled in for a 26-yard score to tie things at 21 just before halftime. The basketball team, sitting a few rows ahead, made the night even better by taking pictures with Jayton and Mason during the halftime break.

Trading Punches

The second half was a slugfest. FSU missed a field goal to open, and Virginia answered with a ground-heavy drive capped by a Morris touchdown run. The Noles tied it, but the Hoos responded again with a massive 16-play drive ending in a touchdown to Xavier Brown. With a 35–28 lead and just a few minutes left, Scott Stadium was shaking. The students lined up at the hill, ready to storm the field.

One more first down could’ve sealed it, but the Hoos went conservative, punted, and suddenly FSU had life. On 4th-and-goal from the 11, Castellanos threw a ball to Pittman for a game-tying touchdown with 36 seconds left. Defense was good on that play, but the offense just made a better play. My heart sank. Still, Virginia had a chance. A big Morris run put us in position, but an interception ended regulation. Overtime was looming.

Overtime Madness

The first OT was a tense exchange — FSU kicked a field goal, and Virginia tied it with one of Will Bettridge’s most clutch kicks yet. In double OT, Morris scored again, and after some confusion about the rules, the Hoos converted a must-have two-point try. Up 43–35, the defense just needed one more stop.

Castellanos hit what looked like a sure touchdown to Robinson, and I dropped my head — only to realize he bobbled it. The review overturned the play, and on 4th down, Virginia’s defense sealed it with an interception. The place erupted. The Hoos had won.

Storming the Field

I lifted Mason onto my shoulders as the students poured onto the field. We joined them moments later, celebrating with fans, taking pictures, and watching our kids meet the players. Even some FSU fans in our section congratulated us on the way down. It was pure joy — the kind of night you dream about as a college football fan.

We stood and yelled for four quarters and two overtimes. I felt like I was 20 again, even if my voice still hasn’t come back. After the game, Jahmal Edrine told us point blank: “We won because of the fans. Keep coming back.” He’s right. Scott Stadium hasn’t felt this alive in years.

Friday night reminded me of the ’90s when the stands were packed, the atmosphere was electric, and Virginia football was feared. This was more than just a win over a Top 10 Florida State team. This was a statement.

Virginia Football is back.