Florida State University announced Sunday it has fired head football coach Mike Norvell in his seventh season, ending a tenure that began with promise but deteriorated into a 10-22 record over the past two seasons. The decision comes despite Norvell's $46 million buyout and follows a 36-24 home loss to Clemson that saw fans display a "Fire Mike Norvell" banner.
University president Richard McCullough stated the school will conduct a national search for a new coach who embraces Florida State's championship tradition. Former Seminoles quarterback and longtime Middle Tennessee State coach Rick Stockstill will take over as interim head coach. Defensive coordinator Tony White was also dismissed.
Norvell led the Seminoles to a 13-1 season and ACC championship in 2023, earning Bobby Dodd and ACC Coach of the Year honors. However, a 2-10 campaign in 2024 and a 5-7 record in 2025, coupled with struggles in the transfer portal and name, image, and likeness (NIL) marketplace, precipitated his downfall. Norvell finishes with a 41-39 record at Florida State and a career mark of 79-55 including a successful four-year stint at Memphis.
The firing leaves Florida State searching for both a permanent athletic director and a new head coach amid questions about the program's direction in the evolving college athletics landscape.
