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SportsFading · day 4

FSU's Norvell under pressure after Alabama collapse, defensive failures spark criticism

Florida State blew a 15-point lead and allowed 50 points to Alabama, with defensive breakdowns and questions about coaching decisions intensifying scrutiny on coach Mike Norvell.

What to know

  • FSU led 21-6 but allowed Alabama 567 yards and nine consecutive scoring drives in a 50-36 loss that extended the Seminoles' road-losing streak to 10 games.
  • Norvell acknowledged defensive execution failures and questioned whether the coaching staff was asking too much of an undermanned defense, citing depth challenges.
  • Critics argue Norvell's measured, conversational tone after the loss signals insufficient accountability and could hasten his departure if results don't improve.

“You get a chance to be in that situation, competing into the fourth quarter, one-score game, in a place that's very difficult to go and win at. I thought we put ourselves in position but, did not get the job done. But I am proud of the fight of our players.”

Mike Norvell, Florida State head coach · Yahoo Sports ↗

Mike NorvellMike Norvell Florida State head coachAshton Daniels FSU quarterbackTony White FSU defensive coordinatorKalen DeBoerKalen DeBoer Alabama head coach

FSU's Norvell under pressure after Alabama collapse, defensive failures spark criticism
Yahoo Sports

How it unfolded 3 developments, newest first · click a bar or a number to jump articles

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Sep 20Sep 21Sep 22yesterdaynow · 6:44 AM ET
  1. 3

    Critics argue Norvell's measured tone and lack of visible anger are signs of weakness

    A Yahoo Sports column contended that Norvell's conversational, non-confrontational tone at Monday's press conference reflects an attitude that accepts mediocrity, contrasting his approach unfavorably with coaches like Brian Kelly, Nick Saban, and Mike Elko, who display fiercer accountability. The piece argues this demeanor could cost Norvell his job if FSU's offensive and defensive struggles continue.

    1. first by Yahoo Sports, 2d ago

  2. 2

    Norvell questions coaching staff execution and player depth in postgame analysis

    On Monday, Norvell acknowledged the defense failed to execute assigned responsibilities and raised whether the coaching staff was asking too much of players. He cited the team's tested depth as players were thrust into action, but also said Norvell questioned his own approach and that players stepping into larger roles must take advantage of opportunities.

    “There were times that we didn't do a good enough job of being able to execute the things that we were being asked to do, and that's a reflection for us as coaches. We look at how much we are asking guys to do.”
    — Mike Norvell
  3. 1 day quiet
  4. 1

    FSU leads Alabama 21-6, then surrenders 567 yards and 50 points in 50-36 loss

    Florida State's defense collapsed in the second half, allowing Alabama nine consecutive scoring drives including five straight touchdowns. FSU's offense scored 36 points on 377 passing yards from Ashton Daniels and four total touchdowns, but three interceptions and the defensive breakdown ended the Seminoles' road-winning hopes at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

    “I was very confident going into this game of what I believed we could do. I'm pissed off right now that we didn't win this game.”
    — Mike Norvell
    1. first by Yahoo Sports, 4d ago · also Tallahassee Democrat

    2. first by Yahoo Sports, 1d ago