Florida State’s 0-3 Start Puts Mike Norvell’s Team at Week 3 Misery Index

The scene of Florida State coach Mike Norvell pausing in disbelief, a mix of shock and anger evident as he processed the Seminoles’ exclusion from the College Football Playoff last December, marked a turning point for the program.

At the time, the Seminoles seemed poised to reclaim their place among college football’s elite. With a renewed brand and tradition, they were in the conversation for a national championship, and optimism filled the air. The fan base believed good times were just beginning. “Chop on, baby,” they rallied.

However, the events of December 3, 2023, had repercussions far beyond what anyone could have predicted. While it might not have been a shock to the informed college football follower, the decision to leave the undefeated Seminoles—who played without their star quarterback, Jordan Travis—out of the playoff in favor of Alabama, the SEC champion, ignited fierce emotions. For many, it felt like Florida State received a raw deal, especially after Alabama’s impressive win over Georgia.

The reaction from the Florida State community was intense; from fans to athletic director Michael Alford, the sentiment viewed the snub as a conspiracy. Criticism was aimed at ESPN commentator Kirk Herbstreit, though he had no role in the decision-making process. ACC commissioner Jim Phillips also found himself in the crosshairs, despite his inability to influence the playoff committee’s judgment.

Frustration lingered long after the announcement, transforming into a grudge that lasted for months. Unfortunately, it appears the aftermath affected the program on the field. From a commanding 13-0 finish after winning the ACC championship, the Seminoles now suffer from a four-game losing streak, culminating in a disappointing 20-12 defeat against Memphis, a team that Norvell had previously coached.

Having started the season ranked No. 10, the Seminoles’ recent losses to Georgia Tech, Boston College, and Memphis have effectively derailed hopes for the remainder of the season. These outcomes indicate a puzzling decline that challenges common excuses; no reasonable justification exists for the team’s performance.

Across the ACC, Florida State’s struggles bring a mix of schadenfreude and speculation. The Seminoles are embroiled in a legal battle to exit their broadcast rights contract with the ACC, which currently extends until 2036. Winning this lawsuit could severely impact the conference’s standing in college sports, raising questions about whether the Seminoles would benefit from joining a less competitive league.

Yet, the more pressing question remains: What exactly went wrong for Florida State?

Two significant theories might explain the team’s decline. The first involves practical aspects. Last season, Florida State relied heavily on the transfer portal to enhance their roster, bringing in talented players like receiver Keon Coleman and defensive lineman Jared Verse. This year, with the addition of 17 new transfers, including quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, the Seminoles have not matched the production they saw last year. Their struggles in running and passing the ball, coupled with a defense failing to meet expectations, contribute to the dire situation.

The second theory suggests a psychological fracture. Did the emotional toll of being snubbed last year leave an imprint on the team? Did the coaches, administration, and returning players lose focus and fail to prepare for the 2024 season with the same commitment and enthusiasm? Was the College Football Playoff selection committee the catalyst that broke the spirit of the Seminoles?

This inquiry is critical for Florida State, especially given their existing financial issues tied to their desire to escape the ACC. Changing coaches is not a quick fix; Norvell is owed upwards of $60 million after this season, indicating a long-term relationship that cannot simply be severed.

With the 2024 season effectively over, it is crucial for Florida State to conduct an in-depth analysis of what transpired over the past nine months. The situation demands a solution, and Norvell must find a way to rectify the issues plaguing the program.

The question lingers: Can he do it?

This uncertainty is why Florida State currently holds the top spot on the Misery Index, reflecting the angst and distress among its fan base.

As for their in-state rivals, the Florida Gators are also struggling, albeit with less pressing expectations. Despite minimal hope at the start of the season, their issues became glaring after a lackluster 33-20 loss to Texas A&M. The Gators’ performance suggests a team lacking passion and confidence, remaining unable to reach even the lowest benchmarks set for them.

For other local teams like South Carolina, Mississippi State, and Air Force, the struggles mirror Florida State’s, each grappling with unique challenges that threaten their seasons and programs’ futures.

Source: USA Today