The Florida State Seminoles’ college football season under the stewardship of head coach Mike Norvell is under extreme scrutiny, and ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum didn’t hold back on what it means for Norvell and his future in Florida.
During The Matt Barrie Show, Finebaum spoke about the drama surrounding Norvell’s program. While Finebaum acknowledged Norvell’s capability as a coach, he also insisted that the results can’t be ignored.
Not long ago, the Seminoles were just short of being able to represent the ACC in the College Football Playoffs; now they are the second-to-last team in the ACC standings. It leaves Florida State and Norvell scrambling for answers.
“I wrestle with Mike Norvell because at the core I still believe that he’s capable of a lot, but you can’t argue with those results”, Finebaum stated (0:23).
Finebaum also highlighted just how dramatically the narrative has shifted since the Seminoles’ triumphant victory over Alabama.
“Who would have thought after the Alabama after the Alabama win—that Mike Norvell might be on a hotter hot seat than Billy Napier down the street. It’s truly remarkable to think about what has happened to him and this program”, Finebaum explained (0:34)
“And there was so much buy-in, too, Matt. I mean, they they turned it around and he’s ultimately responsible. So, yeah, I would think he’s, he’s on a very slippery slope this morning”, he further elaborated (0:51).
Florida State entered the season with legitimate playoff aspirations, only to stumble to a 3-4 record with a 0-4 mark in conference play. Four straight losses have sent the Seminoles tumbling out of the national rankings
Norvell’s Massive Buyout Clause Creates Financial Risk for Seminoles
Norvell has signed a massive contract extension following last season’s success. That deal now includes a buyout of $54 million, creating a financial nightmare for Florida State if they ever think of parting ways with Norvell.
Nonetheless, many teams have not hesitated to dismiss coaches and pay significant buyouts this season. Following the dismissal of James Franklin from Penn State, the Nittany Lions will owe Franklin buyout payments totaling around $50 million. Likewise, Coach Billy Napier’s dismissal from the Florida Gators means they will be liable for upwards of $21 million in his buyout.
Meanwhile, the Seminoles fanbase grows into a restless group with each passing Saturday as Florida State checks into the bottom 25 rankings.
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