Florida State head coach Mike Norvell enters the 2025 college football season with mounting pressure and little room for error after the Seminoles endured a catastrophic 2-10 campaign in 2024.
Once hailed for reviving the storied program, Norvell now finds himself in a make-or-break year, with critics questioning whether his leadership can steer the team back on course.
The program has struggled for consistency since the departure of Jimbo Fisher in 2017, with the failed tenure of Willie Taggart preceding Norvell’s arrival. Despite a rocky start—including back-to-back losing seasons (with 2020 partially excused due to the COVID-19 pandemic)—Norvell appeared to right the ship, leading the Seminoles to a resurgent 2022 Cheez-It Bowl win over Oklahoma and a perfect 13-0 regular season with an ACC Championship in 2023.
However, that momentum crashed in 2024, with Florida State finishing 2-10 and 1-11 against FBS opponents since that undefeated run. The collapse has raised serious concerns about roster evaluation, development, and program direction.
According to Lindy’s Sports, Norvell enters the season under a “Fevered” hot seat designation, despite his reported $60 million buyout.
With athletic director Michael Alford backing structural changes—including the hiring of a revamped coaching staff—2025 presents a final opportunity for Norvell to re-establish credibility. A demanding schedule begins with a marquee clash against Alabama on August 30, followed by conference battles against Miami and Clemson, and a rivalry game at Florida to end the season. Compounding matters, three of FSU’s final four games are on the road.
If Norvell cannot deliver at least a competitive turnaround—potentially a winning record—the program may be forced to move on despite the financial cost. For now, Tallahassee watches with anticipation and anxiety as a pivotal chapter in Florida State football begins.
