The Time Is Now
There is a tough road ahead, but first things first. Who will be the quarterback? I have been an advocate for Kevin Sperry, but I must admit Malachi Marshall intrigues me. Norvell’s decision will set the tone for the season and potentially show how Norvell views his situation. If the offense is not as productive as last season, right or wrong, the blame will fall squarely on Mike Norvell.
Remember the ups and downs? Florida State lost wide receiver Lawayne McCoy and tight end Randy Pittman Jr. to Louisville and SMU, respectively. The good news is that they return leading receivers Duce Robinson and Micah Danzy.
The Seminoles added a dynamic back Tre Wisner from Texas, who has rushed for 1,734 yards at Texas over the last three seasons, and Norvell should be cooking with gas. The issue will be breaking in a mostly new offensive line, but the talent speaks for itself. It is hard to maintain consistency through chaos, but the identity and culture of the team are as important as the players themselves.
Once Upon A Time
Before Gus Malzahn arrived in Tallahassee, Norvell was the play caller, so this is not unfamiliar territory for him. The offense trended downward from finishing 10th in the nation in 2022, 54th in 2023, and 132nd in 2024. 2024, of course, was the 2-10 season, but it has left a stench on the program.
While the transfer portal brings a constant change of players, but it does not necessarily change the philosophy. In other words, Florida State fans need to buckle up. Coming to Florida State, by way of Memphis, Norvell was considered one of the genius offensive minds filled with creativity, explosiveness, and aggressiveness.
Due to his job security, or lack thereof, depending on who you talk to, he needs to channel his inner Tiger, so to speak. The reality of this declaration of responsibility is that he has already replaced coordinators; you may not get another chance to. Mike Norvell was already at a crossroads. He is inching toward the final quarter mile.
The Final Spear
Norvell’s decision to call plays not only shapes the 2026 season, but it could also define a tenure and set the tone for the future or be the start of a reset. Malzahn’s departure may have Norvell desperate in “if you want something done, do it yourself” mode. His other responsibilities will not go away; he is still expected to be the CEO and leader of men.
Good play callers design, script, and adjust to their opponent throughout the course of a game. I have no doubts that Norvell knows what he is doing. I question the response to adversity. If the dropped passes and bad penalties are a sign of that, it is going to be another long season in Tallahassee.
For more College Football Analysis, Michael can be found on the Sports Reports as Ordered Podcast on YouTube, X, TikTok, and all DSPs.