FSU football: Fans react to Mike Norvell positive for COVID-19

FSU football will have to prepare for Miami without head coach Mike Norvell who has tested positive for COVID-19.

The hits keep coming for FSU football. A week after losing as double-digit betting favorites, the Noles learned they will be without head coach Mike Norvell when they play Miami on September 26.

Norvell tested positive for COVID-19 after testing negative two previous times recently, and his wife and daughter have tested negative.

Norvell announced Deputy Heady Coach Chris Thomsen would assume head coaching duties until he can return.

Here is Mike Norvell’s full statement courtesy of FSU athletics:

"In our most recent round of Covid testing yesterday, I received a positive result after being negative in our previous two tests this week. My wife and daughter were tested this morning with negative results but are quarantining. My result was surprising to me, but we have prepared for a potential positive result among anyone in our program and we will put that plan in place while I am away. I will remain involved remotely as much as possible to help our team continue to prepare. Deputy head coach Chris Thomsen will handle in-person head coaching duties until I am able to return. I’m grateful to the administration, players and staff for their commitment to the protocols we have in place, which have helped us limit contact with others and allowed us to continue moving forward."

Fan Reaction

Thoughts

The good news is, Chris Thomsen has head coaching experience, and the FSU football coaching staff spent this week working on the mistakes they made against Georgia Tech.

They also spent time scouting Miami and preliminary game-planning for the game next week. I’m sure Mike Norvell will continue to be involved in everything remotely while quarantined.

The other good news is Kenny Dillingham has years of experience with Norvell, and Dillingham has spoken several times about how they are almost always on the same page when it comes to playcalling.

The coaching staff has lots of experience and most of them have coached with Norvell previously. Norvell is always meticulous when it comes to being organized and prepared in all aspects. However, not having him on the sidelines will likely be a factor when it comes to the game within the game.

The Noles didn’t need any more distractions after losing to Georgia Tech last week, but maybe this is an opportunity for the team to bond together and overcome adversity?

It’s a question I asked after the Georgia Tech game and something the Noles have struggled to overcome in recent years.

This game against Miami is huge, as the Noles look to avoid losing their fourth consecutive game to one of their biggest rivals.