Florida State limped to the finish line in Week 1 against the SMU Mustangs after a bizarre power outage led to a delayed start. The Seminoles battled for the majority of the game, but with the program under the microscope, the issues on the field became the biggest talking points in the days after the game. And we hate to single someone out, but Mandrell Desir had a game to forget.
Yup, perhaps one of the biggest problems that arose during the game against SMU occurred on one single play, as Desir air-dribbled a basketball between his legs before the snap like he was Myles Garrett. Desir was put to the ground by the Mustangs' offensive line, and a big connection was made down the field. As embarrassing as the sequence may have been, Desir made the situation much worse with his response to the fans.
Mandrell Desir bashes Florida State fans after receiving criticism over his controversial play
Desir opted to turn a situation that might be overblown into something far bigger by taking a quick shot at Florida State fans on social media. The defensive lineman told fans to "stay on that side" after plenty of criticism was thrown his way for his performance.
Mandrell Desir is making at least $800k to play for FSU this year after his portal shenanigans.
— Clay Fink (@clay_fink) September 8, 2026
He’s recorded 2 pressures (4.2% pressure rate), gone viral for trying to be Myles Garrett and getting tossed on the turf, and now he’s asking fans to “stay on that side”
Awesome. pic.twitter.com/JeOHrQOqG5
Defensive coordinator Tony White spoke publicly about the situation and revealed that nothing will be done about the crossover since the move is part of what makes Desir who he is. White makes a point about the move since there would be limited criticism if Desir was performing like he was in 2025, but in a loss where he struggled, the Seminoles need Desir at 100% for every snap.
The biggest issue for Florida State in the Desir situation is the clear lack of passion out of the Seminoles' coaching staff. Norvell is already being looked at more critically than other coaches due to the fact that he is on the hot seat, and naturally, everything Desir does on or off the field will be seen by a gigantic audience.
Allowing any player, including Desir, to lose a rep in that fashion is a terrible look considering where the program is currently at. When combined with the way Desir carried himself after the game with his comment, the staff looks far worse.
Desir previously landed in hot water with the fans during the off-season after pump-faking a transfer portal entrance with his brother, Darryll. The brothers returned to the program with a massive renewed NIL package, and the situation has continued to be an issue as the duo is failing to live up to the larger investment. Florida State has a looming clash against the Alabama Crimson Tide, and how Desir carries himself in the game could reveal whether or not the staff has truly left the situation alone.
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