Florida State's offense had an up-and-down 2025 campaign under the guidance of coordinator Gus Malzahn. When he was hired with the Seminoles, the expectation was that Malzahn would be primarily focused on that side of the ball and not have to worry about the headache of recruiting.
This was thought to be a smart investment since Malzahn was a mentor for Mike Norvell when he was being elevated throughout the coaching ranks. However, the fit has been awkward to say the least.
The picture-perfect world consisted of Florida State being able to run the football efficiently (did well enough) and have quarterback Thomas Castellanos make the necessary throws to keep opposing defenses honest (didn't happen).
Alabama was thrown for a loop by the way that Gus Malzahn brings unpredictability to his scheme. The Crimson Tide has been dealing with the headache of him for quite some time during his time with the Auburn Tigers.
Mike Norvell is betting on himself as the Seminoles' play caller
It isn't that head football coach Mike Norvell cannot be a play caller. However, fans are frustrated with how the 2024 season transpired, with the team being 2-10 in 2024. Most think that he isn't capable of making the right decision anymore for the program.
Gus Malzahn's retirement puts Norvell in a difficult position because he can only blame himself if he were to be let go because of not performing up to expectations. Norvell can ensure that the program can make the best decision to pay the $58 million buyout or let it ride for another year and change the narrative around the situation.
This is a massive 2026 season for the head coach, who is trying to prove the doubters wrong and show that 2022 and 2023 weren't a fluke. This isn't a situation where I am calling for someone's job, but Florida State is a place that expects to compete for a championship.