Florida State football is looking to prove the doubters wrong in 2026. Head coach Mike Norvell has received criticism from outsiders and even his own fan base after only recording seven wins in two years. That is not the standard for the Seminoles.
With that said, Norvell is allowed to change the narrative and be successful in Tallahassee, but it will take consistency. He can make it happen and take matters into his own hands, as he will be calling plays in 2026 for the offense after coordinator Gus Malzahn unexpectedly retired.
Much like the last couple of years, the Seminoles have filled their roster with newcomers via the recruiting ranks and transfer portal, so it could take some time to gel the team. Luckily, spring practice is right around the corner on March 9th to get some of the growing pains out.
Landen Thomas will be someone who emerges out of nowhere for the Seminoles' offense
Fans talk about the new players that were added to the roster with how they can be able to help the team and change the narrative, but individuals often forget about those returning pieces that Florida State brings back.
Understandably, the Seminole fan base wants to forget about players who won only seven games in two years and wipe the slate clean for the program. As I mentioned earlier, head coach Mike Norvell will be the play caller in 2026.
Norvell has been discussed as a head coach on the hot seat for 2026, so the fate of his job security is virtually in his hands. This isn't new for Norvell to call plays, and we have seen the successes and failures of him completing that task. If basketball head coach Luke Loucks can be successful in his first season, Mike Norvell can do the same.
One notable difference about Norvell's offenses is that he likes to utilize tight ends as blockers, in the slot, and on the outside as pass catchers. Veteran Randy Pittman Jr. transferred to the SMU Mustangs this offseason, so this left a void in the Seminoles' offense.
As a result, Florida State had to ensure that it did not lose Landen Thomas in the transfer portal. They were able to compensate him for the services that he will be providing. This is going to be a huge year for the Georgia native. He did not do much in 2025, as he recorded three catches for 35 yards and two touchdowns (according to ESPN Stats and Information).
The junior showed potential in 2024, as the Seminoles went in the direction of a youth movement. Florida State added ECU tight end transfer Desirrio Riles this offseason via the transfer portal, but Thomas will be slated as the starter at the position, and it is time for the former four-star prospect to show what he can do in 2026.