Florida State Edges Rival Jackson’s Last-Second Dash Lifts Seminoles Over Gators

Randell Jackson took a 60-foot pass and drove in for a layup with .3 seconds left Sunday as No. 16 Florida State escaped with an 83-81 victory over Florida.

The Seminoles (7-1) had a 10-point lead midway through the second half, but Florida (5-2) fought back with an onslaught of 3-pointers, including one by Brent Wright with 53 seconds left for an 81-79 lead.

But Jackson, who scored 14 points, was fouled going to the basket and made both free throws to tie the game. Florida worked the ball around for one shot, but Damen Maddox’s 10-foot baseline jumper with six seconds left was an air ball.

Geoff Brower’s inbounds pass sailed over Wright’s head. Jackson caught it about 20 feet from the basket and drove in for the winning score. He was fouled by Maddox on the play, and missed the free throw.

Terrell Baker had 18 points to lead Florida State.

Jason Williams finished with 21 points for the Gators.