Florida State University (FSU) head coach Mike Norvell expressed gratitude to the administration for their confidence in him following the announcement that he will continue as head coach through the 2026 season. During a weekly news conference on Monday, Norvell emphasized that he believes the team is on the cusp of competing for championships, despite a current record of 5-6 and the need to defeat Florida on Saturday to achieve bowl eligibility.
Norvell highlighted the team’s performance, noting that four of their six losses this season have come in one-score games. He pointed out that two of those losses, against Virginia and Stanford, were notably affected by video replay reviews. “I don’t think we’re far off,” Norvell stated. “I believe that we are close. You lose six games and it sucks. We have absolutely not been close to the expectation of what I have for this team and for what is the overall expectation of Florida State football. But I do believe in where we’re going.”
Despite the challenges, FSU has shown potential, outgaining opponents in ten of eleven games this season. The team excels in third-down conversions but has struggled with critical mistakes at pivotal moments. Recently, two turnovers on special teams during a close match against NC State contributed to a disappointing 21-11 loss. The Seminoles currently rank in the bottom third of the nation in turnover margin at -4 and have faced difficulties in red zone offense.
Norvell acknowledged the need for improvement in crucial situations, stating, “It still ultimately comes down to making the plays in those critical situations that are going to push you to having that success in the game.” He reiterated FSU’s ability to perform against strong teams but acknowledged the inconsistency that has plagued their season.
As part of the announcement regarding his return for a seventh season, Norvell expressed his commitment to implementing fundamental changes aimed at enhancing team performance. Although he did not specify what adjustments would be made, he stated that his primary focus this week is on preparing for the matchup against Florida.
When questioned about a possible reevaluation of the program’s front office and personnel department, Norvell indicated that assessments are continually taking place. “There’s a lot of things that we’ll continue to take a broader scope look at as we get into the offseason,” he explained. “But I’m evaluating throughout the course of the year in every part of our program to be able to take the proper steps for us to be the best that we can be.”
Norvell also expressed optimism regarding the team’s effort, noting that players are continuing to battle even amid setbacks. Over the past two years, FSU has struggled in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), with a record of 3-13. Their last regular-season road victory was against the Gators in Gainesville in 2023.
The coach highlighted the potential of young players, including Mandrell, Darryll Desir, Ousmane Kromah, Jayvan Boggs, and Micahi Danzy. “When it comes to the talent on this team, we’ve got really, really good talent,” he said. “Some guys that are playing as true freshmen right now are showing that they’re going to be some of the best players in college football here in the next few years.”
While there may be skepticism within the Florida State fan base regarding Norvell’s return after four losing seasons in six years, he remains committed to changing the program’s trajectory. “I’ve been confident that if I could keep my head down and just continue to work that the opportunity would be there,” Norvell asserted. “I’m not gonna let them down. I believe in what it’s gonna be, and I know what we have to continue to do, and we’re gonna get it done.”
