On Friday night, the Virginia Cavaliers pulled off their first victory over a top ten opponent at home since the 2005 season. They defeated the No. 8 Florida State Seminoles in an instant classic matchup at Scott Stadium under the lights in a double overtime affair. The final scoreboard read 46-38 after Florida State star quarterback Tommy Castellanos threw an interception in the corner of the endzone into the arms of Ja’Son Prevard, and not a second went by before students and fans alike stormed
the field.
It was a magical night that ended with the city of Charlottesville partying like it was 1995, and it was filled with dramatics. We captured it all through the lens.
Here are my top five photos from the night that will not soon be forgotten.
5. The man of the hour
Virginia QB Chandler Morris will be discussed on a national stage during the 2025 football season thanks to the performance he put on Friday night. Morris had five total touchdowns, 229 yards through the air, 37 yards on the ground on eight carries, and was awarded a crown by multiple teammates after a few of his scores.
4. First of many
TE Sage Ennis caught his second touchdown of the year on Friday, but it was the first of the night for the ‘Hoos with five others following it. Virginia is now averaging 45.6 points per game and has scored 40+ points in both of their ACC matchups this season, as well as in four out of their first five games.
3. Bend don’t break
Did this unit give up 38 points? Yes. But they also forced three turnovers, made huge plays when it mattered most, and hung tough for all four quarters against what was then the nation’s top offense. Props to Coach Rud and his defense for showing up in a big way.
2. The Hill
The Virignia student section was rocking all night long, all in hopes of being able to rush the field and claim victory over the Seminoles. They were loud, fierce, and effective, all resulting in the fastest and what is being called “the best field rush of all time.”
1. Eye of the storm
Not even two minutes before this picture was taken, the final play of the game was taking place. The Virginia faithful wasted no time in celebrating this program-altering victory. Have yourself a night, Charlottesville!
