Florida State football has been on a spring break, so football practices have been put on hold for a week. With that said, this is a pivotal time for head coach Mike Norvell and this program.
The Seminoles finished with a 5-7 record last year. Beating Alabama at home was the highlight of the 2025 season, but the squad seemed to crumble under the expectations of what the nation thought they were: College Football Playoff contenders.
The expectation for Florida State in 2026 appears to be 6.5 wins, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. This number could go a variety of different outcomes, but the thought process remains the same: Norvell has to win this upcoming season.
As spring practices approach this week, here are three storylines that I am monitoring:
Who emerges as the starting quarterback?
The big elephant in the room is the quarterback position. Florida State hasn't been stable there since the likes of Jordan Travis wore the Garnet and Gold. The Seminoles added Ashton Daniels and Dean DeNobile via the transfer portal, Jaden O'Neal through the high school recruiting ranks (will miss time with an injury), and Malachi Marshall in JUCO. The discussion should also favor returnee Kevin Sperry. The discussion of who the starter should be is between Daniels and Sperry.
Will the offensive line be able to gel together to make the offense shine?
Florida State was able to bring back assistant coach Herb Hand after offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn unexpectedly retired this offseason. Coach Hand has been around several Power Four programs, and it is a huge help to have his experience. He added several new transfers to the offensive line to start in 2026, which is always a dangerous proposition since it takes time to gel with one another. A solidified offensive line will be great for whoever lines up under center.
Will other pass rushers step up to the plate on the Seminoles' defense?
Florida State was able to bring back the Desir Twins and Kevin Wynn this offseason. This was a huge expense to the university, and those three individuals will be playing a ton. However, other members of the roster have to step up. The Seminoles grabbed eight defensive linemen from the high school recruiting rankings. Florida State needs guys like Daniel Lyons (veteran player) and Rylan Kennedy to be the leaders of the defensive line.