It’s hard to watch a once-proud program fade into mediocrity, but that’s exactly what’s happening at Florida State. The Seminoles’ eighth straight ACC loss isn’t just a defeat—it’s a glaring indictment of a program that seems to be losing its way. In a 34-31 heartbreaker against Pitt, Florida State showed flashes of potential but ultimately crumbled under the weight of inconsistency and missed opportunities. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the losses; it’s about the how and why behind them.
Mike Norvell, now 36-30 in his sixth year at the helm, is facing a crossroads. Is his approach still viable, or has it reached its limit? The game against Pitt provided more evidence for the latter. Despite a 21-14 halftime lead, the Seminoles looked disengaged for much of the contest, allowing Pitt to dictate the pace. The Panthers’ aggressive start, highlighted by three fourth-down conversions on their opening drive, set the tone for a game where Florida State often seemed a step behind.
Florida State did show life in the second quarter, capitalizing on two interceptions of Pitt’s true freshman quarterback, Mason Heintschel, to take their first lead. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was this a genuine turnaround, or just a fleeting moment of competence in a sea of inconsistency? The Seminoles’ inability to sustain momentum in the second half suggests the latter. A quick three-and-out to start the third quarter handed Pitt the initiative, and they never looked back.
Key moments like a questionable fumble call on running back Holmes and a forced fumble by Earl Little Jr. that bounced Pitt’s way highlight the fine line between victory and defeat. But let’s be honest: Luck favors the prepared, and Florida State didn’t look prepared. Their reliance on a depleted receiving corps and a run game that couldn’t close out drives left them vulnerable. Pitt, meanwhile, capitalized on their opportunities, scoring a late touchdown to seal the win.
The stats tell a story of near parity—Florida State outgained Pitt in rushing yards (170 to 155) and sacks (5 to 2), but fell short in passing yards (245 to 321) and time of possession (27:25 to 32:35). But numbers only tell part of the story. What’s missing is the intangibles: the fire, the discipline, the ability to finish.
As the Seminoles limp through another disappointing season, the question lingers: Can Mike Norvell turn this around, or is it time for a fresh start? What do you think? Is Norvell the right coach to lead Florida State back to glory, or has his time run its course? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is a debate worth having.
